Monday, 11 November 2013

An insider’s guide to getting a job in tax

An insider’s guide to getting a job in tax
There are many pathways into the tax industry so whether you’re after a role in a multinational firm or want to set up your own practice, it’s good to know the skills and qualities you need to make yourself attractive to clients.

For the inside scoop on what tax industry recruiters are looking for, we spoke with Janna Fikh, the Principal of Fletcher Tax Accountants, a boutique Sydney practice specialising in tax for small businesses. She deals with a number of clients on any given day and loves making a difference to clients when they see how to be more efficient and more effective going forward.

Janna says a career in taxation is a process of learning and suits people who are not just good with numbers but have the social skills to understand clients’ issues and address them.

How did you become a tax accountant?

Janna Fikh
Janna Fikh
Never did I ever think accounting, let alone taxes, were for me. I was quite good at maths and I had to select another two units as part of HSC, so I decided to complete a Certificate II in Accounting via TAFE. After obtaining 98% for the subject, I thought this might be a good path to continue on. So I undertook a Bachelor of Taxation at UNSW.

What do you think is the 'ideal' pathway for a career in taxation?

I would first recommend work experience in an accounting firm to see what type of accounting a person might be interested in. It may be audit, it may be business services or it may not be right for them at all. I would also recommend finding a part time role in an accounting firm to be done at the same time as studies in order for everything to gel together more efficiently at the end of the day.

How have perceptions of the ideal taxation graduate evolved over the years?

These days, social capabilities are worth more than their weight in gold. Firms as well as clients seek out team players and/or those who can make a seemingly dry topic more approachable and comprehensive.

You use contractors, what are the attributes you look for in a contractor?

Contractors are great as they run their own businesses hence it is in their interest to be on time when it comes to set deadlines as well as skills they bring to the table. For example, all of my current bookkeepers are BAS agents, thus ensuring they abide by the harsher requirements as set by legislation.

What are the biggest mistakes a potential candidate can make?

Not wanting to learn or improve themselves, not taking the opportunity seriously.

What tips would you give a graduate looking to embark on a taxation career? 

Try different sections of accounting and find the right one which suits you in terms of remuneration, autonomy, skill set, location and niche. What suits one person may not suit another. You don’t want to do 40 hours plus in a job you don’t understand or won’t be able to personally excel in.

Student Membership
Give yourself the edge with free Student Membership

If you are a tertiary education student, The Tax Institute can help you progress in your career journey.


Find out about Student Membership.

23 comments:

  1. Our company has cars to transport carpets from one place to another to clean the carpets and we work all over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at any time 24 hours and all these services will get our dear client through a carpet cleaning company in Riyadh and all these services we offer you prices Do not accept the competition and also irresistible discounts and you can find out all this and more by contacting the carpet cleaning company numbers company.
     
    شركة كشف تسربات المياه بمكة
    شركة تنظيف بمكة
    شركة تنظيف خزانات بمكة

    ReplyDelete
  2. Faisalabad is one of the biggest cities in Pakistan and the hub of the textile industry. It is widely acknowledged as the Manchester of Pakistan due to its large industrial role. The quality of the fabrics produced in this city has no parallel. In fact, the fabric is something of a specialty of Faisalabad. Many people from all over the country flock to this city for a spot of cloth shopping. We aim to provide you all of the best of Faisalabad at our store.
    pakistani catalogue dress wholesale , pakistani catalogue dress wholesale , pakistani catalogue dress wholesale

    ReplyDelete
  3. Lot of students go for the online tutions for the completing writing work in good way.I have checked about the private tutions on the at why not find out more website where lot of students getting the details about the best tution options in good way.

    ReplyDelete
  4. The jackets that we sell are replicas of the coats worn by top television celebrities because it is a growing trend to copy them when it comes to fashion. These celebrities have really become the trendsetters. This leisure was hitherto in reach of only the rich and the rest could only dream about it. But now these jackets are available for all people who want to buy them because of our affordable prices. So we welcome you to come and buy celebrity jackets of excellent quality and know more about us and our products!
    jet black wool varsity jacket

    ReplyDelete

  5. Each part—will help you wisely choose your first compound bow, but it will also help you get a sense of how to use the bow properly. We'll start with... The Riser Every part of the bow is incredibly important, but the riser is, Best MIG Welder under $500 Best MIG Welder under 1000

    ReplyDelete


  6. In our opinion, these are some Bow Advisor of the top choices for compound bows for people who are new to archery.We have two votes for “best of the best” beginner compound bows, and they are:The Bear Archery Cruzer G2 RTH Compound Bow:

    ReplyDelete
  7. Venuepro is made up of 14 comprehensive modules that deliver all aspects of event and venue management. Venuepro is constantly under further development by consulting with industry experts and global venue and space owners. venue management systems uk

    ReplyDelete
  8. There are some Black Friday Sales. The best place to shop for Black Friday Sales and Cyber Monday Deals is during the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, before the holiday shopping begins. Here’s a list of the Black Friday Sales happening this year.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Polk Audio Signa S2 has been providing professional audio products for over 50 years. From professional mixing consoles to high-quality home entertainment systems, Polk offers a full line of audio products designed to meet consumer or professional needs. Their new s2 audio speakers are a great choice for those who want high-quality sound in a small package. The s2 speakers come in three colors, black, white, and silver, and are available in three different sizes. Polk Audio has been providing professional audio products for over 50 years. From professional mixing consoles to high-quality home entertainment systems,

    ReplyDelete
  10. If you are looking for the most affordable and best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals then checkout Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals

    ReplyDelete
  11. Navigate the world of PPF care with precision using Mumsport's expert PPF care instructions
    . Their website not only offers a premium selection of top-tier PPF options but also provides invaluable guidance to ensure your vehicle remains protected and pristine. Trust Mumsport for superior automotive care solutions and detailed PPF care instructions.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Explore the endless possibilities of IoT connectivity with Telesim IoT devices
    . As a leading provider, Telesim stands out for its cutting-edge technology and reliable IoT solutions. Elevate your IoT experience by choosing Telesim, your trusted partner for seamless connectivity with Telesim IoT devices.

    ReplyDelete
  13. County Roofing is a name synonymous with quality and precision in roofing brooklyn
    . Their website offers valuable insights into their services, showcasing the expertise that makes County Roofing the preferred choice. After a successful project with County Roofing, I can confidently recommend them for all your roofing needs in Brooklyn.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Before your next international trip, be sure to check out Stonewell Financial for their comprehensive 해외 여행자 보험 options. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction make them my top choice

    ReplyDelete
  15. Exploring different roofing types
    ? Roofweiler has an extensive collection to help you find the perfect match for your home. Whether you prefer asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tile, Roofweiler offers high-quality options to suit any style and budget. Visit Roofweiler to learn more about various roofing types available.

    ReplyDelete
  16. I've been using E Commerce Boxes from Boxes 4 Products for a while now, and their durability and design have made a huge difference in my shipping process. Definitely worth looking into

    ReplyDelete
  17. For high-quality Nurse at home
    services, Vesta Care provides a range of professional home nursing options. Their experienced nurses offer personalized care to support health and well-being at home.

    ReplyDelete