What to expect in an entry-level tax position

Resume

When writing a resume for a tax position, it is important that the information disclosed is written in a concise and logical manner.

A summary of your work experience and the use of bullet points within a resume can help recruiters easily determine whether candidates are suitable for a position e.g. where candidates are applying for a graduate position, there may be numerous applications, so it is best to present your resume in a manner which is convenient for the person reviewing it.

Further, where a cover letter is required, it is important that it is tailored to the individual position being applied for, and the company/firm which the application is being made to. Whilst your resume will generally not vary too much, the cover letter should be very specific and gives you the opportunity to distinguish yourself from other candidates.

Tax job search tips (where and when to look)

For students currently at University, careers fairs are usually the best place to start looking for tax positions. Most firms attend University careers fairs in order to promote upcoming opportunities they have such as graduate positions etc.

However, if students know the type of organisations/firms they want to work for, they should go to their websites and search for current and upcoming opportunities there. Although most organisations/firms recruit at different times throughout the year, candidates should be looking to apply for positions such as graduate positions in their penultimate year of study.

Further, many organisations/firms offer vacation/clerkship opportunities, which can also lead to graduate positions.

What to expect in an entry-level position

A tax graduate can expect all types of things in an entry-level position/graduate position. In a professional services environment, this can range from having to do various tasks, attending various meetings, on the job training, formal class room technical training, mentoring and coaching from senior staff, and attending social events just to name a few.

Generally, when you start as a graduate in tax, you will spend a lot of time initially doing research, which helps candidates become familiar with tax law concepts. This is usually followed up with assisting with tax compliance (such as income tax returns, business activity statements and fringe benefits tax) and providing assistance with tax consulting pieces.

Graduates may also get the opportunity to attend client meetings, and/or internal meetings with other business divisions.

Contributed by Pitcher Partners of NSW.

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