Entry Level Accountant Resume Examples

Starting as an entry-level accountant can be daunting, especially when you're crafting that all-important resume. Without much experience under your belt, it’s easy to feel like balancing the books is simpler than writing your resume! You're eager to show off your skills and knowledge, yet you may struggle to highlight your potential. Plus, figuring out how to format a resume that's both professional and concise can leave you scratching your head. This guide will help you with these challenges, ensuring your resume stands out to hiring managers.

Picking the right resume template is crucial. It’s the first thing employers see, and it sets the tone for your application. A neatly formatted resume not only looks professional but also makes your qualifications easier to read and understand. So, give yourself a head start by choosing a template that showcases your strengths and suits your career path.

We offer more than 700 resume examples designed to help you craft the perfect resume! Dive in and let’s get started on your journey to landing that first accounting job.

What to focus on when writing your entry level accountant resume

An entry-level accountant resume should clearly show your foundational knowledge in accounting principles and relevant coursework. Highlight your ability to handle financial data accurately while demonstrating your competency with accounting software. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the field and willingness to learn. To boost your resume’s impact, include an internship experience, proficiency in Microsoft Excel, strong analytical skills, and any accounting-related certifications or coursework.

Must have information on your entry level accountant resume

For an entry level accountant, your resume must clearly highlight your skills, education, and any relevant experience. Key sections to include are:

• Contact Information
• Professional Summary
• Education
• Relevant Coursework
• Skills
• Experience

Additional sections that could enhance your resume include Certifications, Volunteer Work, and Computer Skills. These can help showcase your commitment to the field and your readiness for an accounting role.

Which resume format to choose

When crafting your entry level accountant resume, the best format to use is the reverse-chronological format. This layout highlights your most recent experiences and is preferred by employers in the accounting industry. Use modern fonts like Rubik and Montserrat instead of the outdated Arial and Times New Roman to give your resume a fresh look. Always save your resume as a PDF to ensure the formatting stays intact. Keep your margins at about one inch to avoid clutter and ensure readability. Use clear section headings like "Education," "Experience," and "Skills," which are crucial for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to scan your resume easily.

Your entry-level accountant resume should include the following sections:

• Contact Information
• Professional Summary
• Education
• Relevant Experience
• Skills
• Certifications
• Projects
• Volunteer Work

Resume Mentor's free resume builder can help you handle all these details effortlessly.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing the experience section of your entry-level accountant resume can seem challenging. Begin with your most recent job and work your way back. Include your job titles, companies, and the dates you worked there. Aim to cover the past 5-10 years but you don't need to go further back if you don't have relevant experience.

Tailor your resume to the job you want. Focus on achievements and use action words like "created," "improved," "analyzed," and "reduced." Avoid listing responsibilities without measurable outcomes. Instead, show how you added value to previous employers. Use accessible language and keep it concise.

Here's an example of a poorly written experience section:

This example is not effective because it lists duties without context or measurable outcomes. Without results or specific contributions, it doesn't show the value you brought to the company.

Now, observe how a well-written experience section looks:

This good example highlights specific achievements. It shows your impact with numbers and specific actions, making it clear how you benefitted the business. By focusing on real outcomes, you effectively demonstrate your capabilities and potential value to future employers.

Entry level accountant resume experience examples

Entering the world of accounting can feel like a tough nut to crack, but don't worry, you'll be auditing like a pro in no time! Here are some experiences to showcase your entry-level accounting skills in a variety of lights, from achievements to innovations.

Achievement-focused

Highlighting your achievements can demonstrate your drive and success in previous roles. Make sure to include measurable outcomes to give concrete proof of your capabilities.

Skills-focused

Emphasize your core competencies and qualifications to paint a clear picture of what you bring to the table technically and professionally.

Responsibility-focused

Showcase the responsibilities you have managed to demonstrate your ability to handle important tasks and roles within the company.

Project-focused

Focus on individual projects, detailing your role and the outcome. This highlights your ability to take initiative and see projects through to completion.

Result-focused

Concentrate on the outcomes and impacts of your actions, providing clear evidence of your effectiveness and contribution.

Industry-Specific Focus

Tailor your experience to demonstrate knowledge in your chosen industry, showing your ability to adapt and excel in that specific field.

Problem-Solving focused

Show how you have identified and resolved issues. This demonstrates critical thinking and your ability to handle challenges effectively.

Innovation-focused

Highlight experiences where you introduced new ideas or processes. Innovation in accounting can lead to more efficient and effective financial management.

Leadership-focused

Showcase any leadership roles or initiatives you have taken on. This can highlight your ability to guide and influence others positively.

Customer-focused

Illustrate your experience in serving internal or external clients, emphasizing your commitment to their needs and satisfaction.

Growth-focused

Highlight experiences that show your contribution to company growth or your personal growth within your role. This can underline your potential for future advancement.

Efficiency-focused

Demonstrate your ability to improve processes and increase operational efficiency, which is a valuable skill in any accounting role.

Technology-focused

Show your experience with technology and systems used in accounting. This can demonstrate your digital literacy and adaptability in tech-driven environments.

Collaboration-focused

Emphasize your ability to work well with others, highlighting your teamwork and communication skills. This is essential for coordinating with different departments and stakeholders.

Training and Development focused

Focus on experiences where you have contributed to training or been trained yourself. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and helping others grow.

Write your entry level accountant resume summary section

Writing a resume summary for an entry-level accountant can be tricky. You want to showcase your skills and potential, even if you don't have extensive experience. Use your resume summary to highlight your strengths and what you bring to the table. Keep it concise, professional, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Describe yourself with positive traits and focus on relevant skills and accomplishments. Words like "detail-oriented," "analytical," and "proactive" can help paint a strong picture. Mention any related internships or coursework, and express a keen interest in developing your accounting career.

There's often confusion between a resume summary, objective, profile, and summary of qualifications. A summary highlights your skills and experiences, demonstrating why you're fit for the job. An objective states your career goals. A resume profile is similar to a summary but usually longer and more detailed. A summary of qualifications is a bullet-point list emphasizing your key achievements.

The first example is bad because it is vague and lacks specifics. Phrases like "a degree in accounting" and "some experience in internships" don't convey concrete skills or achievements. It also fails to mention any specific skills or tools you might be proficient in, making it less engaging and informative for the employer.

The second example is good because it is specific and well-articulated. It highlights the GPA, mentions a specific internship, and notes proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel. These details provide clarity on your skills and experiences, making it easier for employers to see your potential. Adding terms like "strong analytical skills" and "passion for improving financial processes" also makes the summary more compelling.

Listing your entry level accountant skills on your resume

When writing the skills section for your entry-level accountant resume, remember skills can either be a standalone section or incorporated into other sections like experience and summary. Highlighting your strengths and soft skills allows you to demonstrate your ability to handle interpersonal aspects of the job effectively, such as teamwork, adaptability, and communication. Hard skills are those technical abilities you've developed through education or training, such as proficiency in accounting software, financial analysis, and data entry.

Incorporating skills and strengths into your resume can also serve as valuable keywords that hiring managers and automated systems look for. By strategically placing these keywords throughout your resume, you have a better chance of catching the eye of hiring professionals and passing through automated screening software.

A good standalone skills section is clear, concise, and specifically tailored for the job you're applying for as an entry-level accountant. The example above is effective because it lists a variety of relevant skills that prove you are well-rounded and capable in the essential areas of accounting. Highlighting skills such as Microsoft Excel, ERP software, and compliance shows you are prepared for the technical aspects, while including budgeting and financial analysis demonstrates your ability to contribute to financial planning and decision-making.

Best hard skills to feature on your entry level accountant resume

Hard skills for an entry-level accountant should communicate your technical expertise and readiness to handle specific accounting tasks. These skills validate your educational background and any practical training you have received. Below are some of the most in-demand and popular hard skills for entry-level accountants:

Best soft skills to feature on your entry level accountant resume

Soft skills for an entry-level accountant should convey your ability to work well in a team, communicate effectively, and adapt to changing situations. These skills are critical for fostering a productive and positive work environment. Below are some of the most in-demand and popular soft skills for entry-level accountants:

How to include your education on your resume

An education section is an essential part of an entry-level accountant resume. It's vital to make this section relevant to the job for which you're applying. Any unrelated education should be omitted. Make sure to include your GPA if it's impressive and mention any honors like cum laude. Clearly list your degree, institution, and the dates you attended.

Here’s a poorly written education section:

This example is bad because it lacks specifics about the degree, the institution is not fully described, and the dates are unrealistic. The GPA lacks context and max score, making it unclear.

Here’s a well-written education section perfect for an entry-level accountant:

This example is good because it clearly lists the degree and honors, includes a precise institution name and relevant dates, and shows an impressive GPA with context. This makes a strong candidate impression.

How to include entry level accountant certificates on your resume

Your resume's certificates section is crucial for showcasing your qualifications as an entry-level accountant. It's essential to highlight your relevant certifications to stand out to employers. List the name of the certificate prominently. Include the date when you received it. Add the issuing organization to give legitimacy to your certification. You can also place these certifications in the header for higher visibility.

Here's an effective way to format it:

This example works well because it features certifications relevant to accounting. It clearly states the certification title, making it easy for recruiters to identify your qualifications. Including the issuing organization adds credibility. This concise format ensures your certificates stand out, making a strong impression.

Extra sections to include in your entry level accountant resume

Starting your career as an entry-level accountant can be both exciting and challenging. Crafting a well-rounded resume can help you stand out and showcase your various skills and experiences effectively. Here are some key sections you might consider including in your entry-level accountant resume to add depth and personality.

• Language section— List any languages you speak fluently to show your ability to handle diverse clients. Knowing another language can also set you apart in multinational firms.
• Hobbies and interests section— Mention activities that align with accounting, such as playing strategic games or participating in financial clubs. This can give a glimpse into your analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Volunteer work section— Include volunteer experiences, especially if they involve financial tasks. Highlighting volunteer work demonstrates your commitment to the community and gaining practical experience.
• Books section— Share books you've read about accounting, finance, or personal development. Reading relevant books can showcase your dedication to learning and staying updated in your field.

Adding these sections to your resume not only enriches it but also helps potential employers understand you better. It can make you a stronger candidate by highlighting your multifaceted skills and interests.

Pair your entry level accountant resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to potential employers, highlighting your skills and experiences related to the job you're applying for. It serves as your first impression, often determining whether your resume will be considered.

For an entry-level accountant, a cover letter should focus on your educational background and any internships or relevant projects you've completed. If you recently graduated in 2023 with a degree in accounting, mention specific courses such as Financial Accounting or Taxation that are relevant to the job. Highlight your proficiency with accounting software and your strong analytical skills. Be sure to emphasize your attention to detail and your ability to meet deadlines.

Creating your cover letter using Resume Mentor's Cover Letter Builder is easy and efficient. The tool ensures your cover letter remains formatted correctly and protected when exported as a PDF. Start crafting your standout cover letter today with Resume Mentor.