sample resume objective for accounting position

Top 17 Accountant Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 6, 2023 14 min read

A resume objective is a short statement that appears at the top of your resume and outlines your career goals. When writing an objective for an accountant position, you should focus on highlighting your skills and qualifications that are relevant to the job. Make sure to include specific details about the position you are applying for, such as data analysis, budgeting, or financial reporting. Additionally, it’s important to showcase how your experience can add value to the company you’re applying for. For example: “Experienced accountant with 10+ years of experience in financial analysis and budgeting looking to leverage expertise to help ABC Company meet its financial goals." Or "Detail-oriented CPA seeking a challenging accounting role at ABC Company where my skills in tax preparation and financial reporting can contribute to success."

or download as PDF

Top 17 Accountant Resume Objective Samples

• To obtain an accounting position with a reputable firm where I can utilize my expertise in financial analysis and reporting.
• To secure a challenging accounting position with a dynamic organization that will allow me to utilize my knowledge and skills in the field of accounting.
• Seeking an opportunity to work as an accountant in a fast-paced environment that encourages professional growth.
• To work as an accountant for a well-established company, utilizing my excellent analytical and problem solving skills.
• Seeking an entry-level accounting role to gain experience and develop my skills in the field of finance.
• To become a part of a company’s accounting team and contribute to its success through accurate financial reporting and analysis.
• To acquire an accounting position with ample opportunities for career advancement.
• Looking for an opportunity to join an established firm as an accountant and apply my knowledge of financial principles, practices, and procedures.
• Seeking a challenging yet rewarding position as an accountant where I can use my strong organizational skills to ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Aiming to leverage my expertise in bookkeeping, auditing, budgeting, forecasting, taxation, payroll processing, accounts receivable/payable management, and cost control systems into the role of accountant at your organization.
• Motivated individual seeking to join a team of professionals as an accountant while utilizing my education in finance and economics.
• Applying for the position of Accountant with XYZ Company where I can apply my knowledge of GAAP standards and financial regulations while providing quality service to clients.
• Looking for the opportunity to join your team as an Accountant where I can use my experience with QuickBooks software suite along with other related software packages to enhance operations efficiency within your organization.
• Aspiring to secure the role of Accountant at ABC Company that will enable me to draw upon my knowledge in preparing financial statements and reports along with analyzing data for decision making purposes.
• Eagerly seeking employment as Accountant at XYZ Organization where I can put forth all efforts towards achieving organizational goals by utilizing my expertise in managing accounts receivable/payable processes effectively.
• Seeking employment within your esteemed organization as Accountant wherein I can apply my proficiency in developing budgets & forecasts along with ensuring compliance with applicable laws & regulations pertaining to finances & taxes.
• Desire a challenging position as Accountant at ABC Corporation where I can make use of my strong background in preparing balance sheets & income statements along with handling audits & tax returns efficiently

How to Write an Accountant Resume Objective

An accountant resume objective is a short statement that outlines an individual’s professional goals. It serves as an introduction to the rest of the resume, providing a snapshot of one’s qualifications and experiences. In order to write an effective accountant resume objective, there are several key components to consider.

First, it is important to consider the desired job title and position when crafting a resume objective. This should be used as a guide for what skills and experience should be highlighted in the objective statement. For example, if applying for a position as an accounts payable specialist, one might include language such as “seeking an accounts payable specialist position where my expertise in finance and accounting can be utilized to streamline processes.”

Second, it is important to include relevant keywords related to the desired job role in the resume objective. Many employers utilize automated applicant tracking systems (ATS) which scan resumes for certain words or phrases that match the job description they are looking for. Therefore, including keywords such as “accounting software” or “financial analysis” can help increase visibility of your application within these ATS programs.

Finally, it is important to keep the resume objective concise yet impactful. While one should strive to provide detailed information about their qualifications and experiences, doing so within two or three sentences will ensure that recruiters do not lose interest due to excessive wordiness. Additionally, using action verbs such as “managed” or “analyzed” can help emphasize accomplishments and draw attention from employers more quickly than other forms of language.

By following these tips when writing an accountant resume objective, individuals can create a succinct yet powerful introduction that will effectively communicate their qualifications and goals in a way that resonates with recruiters and hiring managers alike.

Related : What does an Accountant do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Accountant Resume Objective

When applying for an accountant position, it's essential to craft a compelling resume objective that not only outlines your career goals but also emphasizes the key skills you bring to the table. These skills can range from technical expertise in accounting software to soft skills like communication and problem-solving. Highlighting these abilities at the very beginning of your resume can grab the attention of hiring managers and set you apart from other candidates. This section will delve into the most important skills to feature in your accountant resume objective.

1. QuickBooks proficiency

QuickBooks proficiency is an essential skill for an accountant's resume objective because it demonstrates the candidate's ability to manage and organize financial data efficiently. QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software, and being proficient in it means the accountant can handle tasks like payroll, billing, invoicing, and generating reports with ease. This skill also shows that the candidate is familiar with modern accounting tools and can adapt to different software environments, thus increasing their efficiency and productivity.

2. Excel mastery

An accountant needs to have a mastery of Excel because it is a powerful tool for managing and interpreting financial data. This skill is critical for tasks such as creating financial reports, budgeting, forecasting, auditing, and analyzing complex numerical data. By including this skill in a resume objective, it demonstrates proficiency in handling large datasets and complex calculations which are essential for the role. It also shows potential employers that the candidate has the technical skills needed to perform the job efficiently.

3. Financial analysis

Financial analysis is a critical skill for an accountant as it involves interpreting financial data to help companies make business decisions, forecast future financial performance, and assess potential risks. This skill demonstrates the ability to not only handle numbers but also use them to provide valuable insights for a company's growth and stability. Including this on a resume objective shows prospective employers that you have the capability to contribute significantly to their financial management and decision-making processes.

4. Tax preparation

Tax preparation is a crucial skill for an accountant as it involves understanding and applying current tax laws, preparing tax returns, and ensuring compliance with payment, reporting, or other tax requirements. This skill demonstrates the accountant's ability to handle financial data accurately, reduce tax liability, and avoid potential tax-related issues. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate has the necessary expertise to manage their company's finances effectively.

5. Budgeting expertise

Budgeting expertise is a crucial skill for an accountant as it demonstrates the ability to plan, organize, and manage financial resources effectively. This skill is essential in helping businesses control their cash flow, reduce unnecessary expenses, and increase profits. Including budgeting expertise in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate can contribute to the financial stability and growth of their company.

6. Payroll management

Payroll management is a crucial skill for an accountant as it involves the ability to accurately calculate employee compensation, deductions, and benefits. This skill is necessary for a resume objective because it showcases the applicant's proficiency in managing complex financial tasks, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations, and maintaining accurate financial records. It also demonstrates strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.

7. Auditing abilities

An accountant's main role is to ensure the accuracy of financial operations within a business. This includes auditing, which involves reviewing and assessing financial records to ensure compliance with laws and regulations, as well as detecting and preventing fraud or mismanagement. Including auditing abilities in a resume objective shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills to accurately evaluate their company's financial records, making you a valuable asset to their team.

8. Xero competency

Xero competency is needed in an accountant's resume objective because it demonstrates the candidate's ability to use this popular accounting software. Xero is used by many businesses to manage their finances, including invoicing, bank reconciliation, bookkeeping, and more. Therefore, proficiency in Xero can make an accountant more efficient and effective in their role. It also shows potential employers that the candidate is up-to-date with current financial technology and tools, which can be a valuable asset for the company.

9. Financial reporting

Financial reporting is a crucial skill for an accountant as it involves the preparation and presentation of a company's financial health. It includes creating balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. These reports are vital for decision-making processes within the organization and are often required by law. Therefore, having this skill can demonstrate to potential employers that the candidate is capable of handling these responsibilities effectively. It also shows their ability to analyze and interpret complex financial data, which is essential in strategic planning and business development.

10. Cost accounting

An accountant needs to have a skill in cost accounting because it is essential for determining the costs of a company's products and services. This includes understanding all the costs involved in producing or delivering the company's goods, from raw materials to labor to overhead. This skill is crucial for making informed financial decisions, setting prices, and measuring profitability. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate has the ability to manage and control costs effectively, which can contribute significantly to a company's financial health and success.

In conclusion, it's essential to strategically highlight your key skills in your accountant resume objective. This not only showcases your proficiency and expertise but also aligns your abilities with the job requirements. The objective should be concise, compelling, and tailored to each specific role you apply for. Remember, this section is a snapshot of your professional self; make it count by emphasizing the unique blend of skills that sets you apart from other candidates.

Related : Accountant Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing an Accountant Resume Objective

When writing an accountant resume objective, it is important to be concise and direct while also conveying the necessary information. Unfortunately, many job seekers make several common mistakes that can cost them a potential job opportunity. These mistakes should be avoided when crafting a resume objective for an accounting position.

One of the most common errors made when writing an accountant resume objective is failing to include specific information about the company or position. A generic statement such as “seeking a challenging accounting position” does not demonstrate any knowledge of the company or their needs, and will not stand out from other applicants with similar objectives. It is important to research the organization and tailor your objective to reflect what you know about their goals and values. This will demonstrate that you are well-informed and interested in the company’s success.

Another mistake commonly made by job seekers is including too much information in their accountant resume objective. An effective resume objective should only be two or three sentences long, so including irrelevant details such as hobbies or personal interests may take away from its impact. The focus should remain on relevant experience and qualifications that relate to the desired position, as this demonstrates knowledge of the field and shows employers why you are a good fit for the role.

Finally, some applicants fail to use action verbs when writing their accountant resume objectives. Action verbs such as “manage”, “analyze”, or “coordinate” are essential for demonstrating your abilities in a succinct way. Using strong language also conveys enthusiasm for the job which can help make your application stand out from others with similar qualifications.

In conclusion, there are several common mistakes that should be avoided when writing an accountant resume objective. Failing to include specific details about the company or position, adding too much irrelevant information, and not using action verbs can all detract from its overall effectiveness. By researching the organization beforehand, keeping it concise yet informative, and using strong language throughout your statement, you can create an effective accountant resume objective that stands out from other applicants and increases your chances of being considered for the role.

Related : Accountant Resume Examples

A right resume objective for an accountant should focus on the skills, experiences, and qualifications that make them well-suited for the role, whereas a wrong resume objective would be a generic statement about wanting to secure employment.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles

• Top 17 Forensic Accountant Resume Objective Examples
• Top 17 General Accountant Resume Objective Examples
• Top 17 Payroll Accountant Resume Objective Examples
• Top 17 Professional Accountant Resume Objective Examples
• Top 17 Project Accountant Resume Objective Examples
• Top 17 Staff Accountant Resume Objective Examples

Learn How To Get The Interview | 30 Accounting Resume Objective Samples!

An accounting resume objective statement is one of the lesser-known secrets to expressing your value and interest as an accountant to the potential employer, in a way that gives them a sense of your experience, skills, and desire for applying for the role, in just one or two sentences.

The examples below give you a wide range of accounting resume objective statements that you can use, so take a read-through and notice which ones are the most relevant to your experience and desire to include them on your resume.

This will heighten your chances of employment success. Below this list is an additional list of accounting skills to include on your resume, which will add to the value of your CV when your potential employer reads your well-thought-out resume.

Table of Contents

30 Accounting Resume Objective Samples!

Example 1: Highly experienced accounting expert looking for a new challenging role at a reputable firm. Bringing more than a decade of expertise to assist with account entries, data recording, compiling and analyzing information, and creating effective systems of data management.

Example 2: Looking for an accountant role with a growing firm to assist with operational systems of modern accounting styles. With a hard-working and inspired attitude, my background of innovative ideas and is shared in recommending policies, procedures, and accounting operations to best suit the firm’s needs.

Example 3: Highly organized accountant seeking a role in a company that values self-motivated workers. Taking my years of experience in administering payroll, managing accounts, recording, compiling, and storing information, and other duties. Enjoys demanding work to meet deadlines and work at high volume with the rewards of being challenged in my role.

Example 4: Well-organised accountant with more than 5 years of dedicated experience in the field of tax accounting. Offers insight into financial reporting, specialized in tax knowledge, additional to being well-versed in regular accounting systems. Loves to strategize in new systems to create more efficient ways of accounting for the company’s benefit.

Example 5: Looking to assist an accounting firm with financial transactions in their business. Bringing accounting experience of auditing documents, maintaining procedures and policies, adjusting journey entries, and preparing tax returns. Seeking to grow my abilities as a top accountant at this stage in my career growth.

Example 6: Seeking a new position as an accountant in a reputable firm. Track record of conducting billing and reconciling leggier statements, as well as administrating payroll accurately and timely.

Example 7: Looking to offer my skills of effective accounting for business in a new position at a growing firm. Takes expertise in controlling expenditure and income to assist with client’s needs of finding the most efficient ways to conduct their business. A customer-oriented approach is taken to the role to also ensure satisfaction with clients and customers of the company.

Example 8: Exceptionally skilled accountant looking for a position at a firm that is open to finding the most effective operations. Taking deep insight from past roles into recommending modern systems of accounting to offer skills of problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills to innovate accounting structures within the firm.

Example 9: Motivated and dedicated accounting seeking a new position in a challenging and busy office environment to demonstrate my multitasking abilities, while maintaining the accuracy of work every time.

Example 10: Highly organized accounting desiring to work with a renowned firm to handle accounting work in accordance with the company’s systems and values. Versatile in the skillset of accounting with years of experience in small and large business accounting. An open and curious mind looking to grow and learn, taking feedback well, and enjoying the process of growth within my work.

Example 11: Talented accounting expert with high-level knowledge of financial reporting systems looking for a new role. Brings skills of analyzing documents, accounts, and transactions, managing financial reporting, and unique data storage systems. Ability to problem-solve and assess current systems to create clear solutions to ineffective strategies.

Example 12: Seeking the position of an accountant at a top firm to assist with finance, general ledger, tax accounting, legal financial documents, and intracompany accounting. Takes more than 5 years of experience in the field to the role to ensure the highest quality work and accuracy every time.

Example 13: Applying for an accounting role to enhance my growth as a top-level accountant with a large company. Experienced in corporate financial reporting, treasury accounting, receivables, employee payment accounting, and legal documentation accounting.

Example 14: Brings exceptional accounting abilities with high volume transactions and complex finances to any accounting role. Looking to obtain employment with a reputable company that seeks an experienced, motivated, and hard-working accountant for the long term in order to enhance the growth of the company and create new and effective systems of operations.

Example 15: Seeking employment with a senior accounting firm to take my accountant expertise to a new level. Loves challenging roles, with self-motivated and highly dedicated energy to carry of financial operations to the highest standard possible. Brings years of accounting experience in different industries and looking to gain new insights and skills to enhance the operations of your company.

Example 16: Wishes to obtain a long-term accounting role with a company that values a strong work ethic and communication skills. Enjoys a team-based environment with the ability to communicate both verbally and written professionally and clearly when it comes to conveying financial information and problem-solving in accounting systems.

Example 17: Applying for the position as a senior accountant to monitor compliance with policies, assess procedures and guidelines, manage funds and maintain internal controls from multi-fund sources, plus more. Interested in the systems of accounting within the firm and how to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of systems for better workflow and outcomes for clients.

Example 18: Talented accountant looking to take solid knowledge of a range of versatile bookkeeping into a new role. Strong attention to detail, enjoyment in multi-tasking, clear and direct communication skills, and experience in a range of accounting roles.

Example 19: Looking to obtain a role as an accountant for a firm that values innovation in accounting. Taking insights into modern accounting techniques with high-level functioning in IT systems and vast knowledge of software and data programs utilized for effective accounting procedures.

Example 20: Desires to obtain accounting position to demonstrate hard-working ability to problem solve and handle complex financial tasks within an office environment. Provides high-quality full-cycle payable assistance for the company’s financial needs in a range of accounting tasks.

Example 21: Experienced accountant seeking employment in a dynamic accounting firm office environment to assist the team with a range of financial tasks. Strong ability to operate IT accounting systems and applications, as well as work with general financial procedures and employment and tax-based accounting.

Example 22: An ambitious individual seeking to assist an accounting firm in obtaining the role of a general accountant. Bringing diverse skills and experience to the job with over 5 years in the field of different accounting firms from small business and individual accounting, to a large company, employment, legal, and corporate financial accounting.

Example 23: Hard-working accounting professional with more than 10 years of experience in the field looking for a new role. Brings an expert level of ability in interpreting, managing, documenting, and storing financial data for large-scale companies. Versatile skill set working with IT software

Example 24: Motivated individual seeking to obtain employment with a firm that demands the highest quality accurate accounting operations every time. Brings strong mathematical skills, as well as deductive reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to deal.

Example 25: Looking to exercise diverse accounting skills in an office environment. Taking to the role a love for challenging tasks to handle complex financial reporting and interpret data from various sources to organize, manage and file accounting information in the most effective procedures.

Example 26: Detail-oriented accountant seeking an opportunity to be employed with a reputable company that seeks an IT expert to take high-level technological understandings to the role. Years of experience using general and complex accounting software and programs.

Example 27: Seeking to obtain accounting role to utilize skills of developed financial interpretation, data management, file storage, and communications between office and client in all financial matters. Friendly, outgoing, and energetic personality assists with the team-based office environment and customer relations.

Example 28: Looking to secure a position in account management, sharing more than 5 years of experience in advanced accounting systems. Also brings abilities of effective communication, critical thinking, and a love for unique problem solving into the role.

Example 29: Seeking to secure a position with a renowned accounting firm to offer high-level expertise and familiarity with industry-standard software and programs to take on budgeting work, payroll, tax accounting, transaction execution, and more.

Example 30: To obtain a valued accounting position where I will be able to demonstrate my skill, experience, knowledge, and desire to learn with a company that will give me an opportunity to develop in my career.

Accounting Skills (additional to Accounting Resume Objective samples)

As well as objective statements, it’s vital to include a list of accounting skills on your resume to demonstrate your specific expertise and what type of skills your experience has afforded you with.  

Below is a list of different accounting skills that employers will be looking for, regardless of the accounting role. Read through the list below and assess which statements are true for your experience and skillset, and include a small list of these skills on your CV.  

This will give you the best chance of success in expressing the value of you as a potential employee in your application.

• High level of proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Office , and Ceridian to use in accounting tasks.
• Accuracy in work with attention to detail, detecting errors and issues in financial statements and taking problem-solving abilities to rectify issues.
• Prepares financial statements of different kinds for senior management.
• Strong time-management skills to prioritise with multiple tasks to meet deadlines and work requirements.
• Experienced a processing payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and more employment accounting tasks.
• High level of cash receipt and card payment understanding, even with companies that have high-volume consumer operations.
• Can effectively reconcile complex ledger reports and bank statements, with the ability to detect inconsistencies and rectify problems where needed.
• Strong oral communication skills to interact with co-workers, management, clients and customers.
• Approaches assignments with a mentality to serve both customers and the company to maintain a balance of outcome for both parties.
• Strong understanding of tax reporting and GAAP compliance requirements.
• Professional written communication skills and fast typing speed for document creation and internal communications.
• Sensitive to confidentiality in files and maintains discretion where needed.
• Team-player in working with others to create new systems and structures, whilst co-working on particular assignments.
• Available to work long hours and overtime to ensure the projects are completed within desired time frames for clients and customers, where possible.
• High level of mathematical skills to cross-check data and financial documents before and after calculations by programs and software.
• Organisational abilities to keep personal work on track, additional to overseeing staff and co-workers and assisting with their work projects where needed.
• Managing deadlines, workloads, and colleagues with experience in scheduling projects and delegating work.
• Methodical approach to problems and use of critical thinking to handle complex issues that arise in data collection, data analytics and file creation. 
• Financial forecasting and risk analysis experience.
• Meeting and interviewing clients in a professional and friendly manner.
• Can provide tax planning services in accordance with current legislation requirements.
• Highly experienced in compiling and presenting reports, business plans, budgets, and other financial statements. 
• Auditing financial information from different sources to ensure consistency and accurate financial data for different companies and individuals.
• An open and curious mind willing to listen, take on feedback and continue to learn for enhancing abilities as an expert accountant.

If you’re looking for even more help and inspiration, check out our in-depth list of accounting resume skills and tips.

Final Thoughts

There are many people in the world working as accountants, and many more graduating every day or looking to find a new role as an accountant in their career growth. To stand out from the crowd when you are applying for your next accounting job, be sure to include an objective statement on your CV. To learn more, check out my guide on the best online Quickbooks courses that you can take for free!

• https://coverlettersandresume.com/accounting/career-objectives-for-accountant-resume/
• https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/accounting-resume-objective
• https://www.livecareer.com/resumes/objectives/accountant-resume-objective
• https://bestresumeobjectiveexamples.com/top-12-accounting-resume-objective-examples-to-use/

My name is Lewis Keegan and I am the writer and editor of SkillScouter.com. I'm extremely passionate about online education and what it can do for those to better their lives. I spend most of my time blogging, hiking, and drinking coffee. I also have a Bachelor's Degree in Education and Teaching.

20 Best Resume Objective Samples for Accountant Positions

If you are applying for an accountant position and are writing a resume or CV, you need to pay good attention to your career objective statement.

Being the first thing that the recruiter/employer will read in your accountant resume, you need to make your objective statement highly compelling to quickly gain the recruiter/employer’s attention when they begin to assess your resume.

A compelling objective statement will increase the chances of your accountant resume to be read, which in turn can increase your chances of being hired for the job.

The quality of your accountant resume objective is therefore important to your getting the job.

This post will show you how to craft a powerful accountant objective that you can apply in your resume whenever you are writing one for a job.

How to Make a Great Accountant Resume Objective Statement

Your quest to making a great career objective statement for an accountant resume begins from learning about what the job entails and what the employer/recruiter wants the prospective employee to have to succeed on the particular accountant job.

When you get this information, then you will be able to craft an objective statement that presents you as the perfect accountant that the recruiter/employer is looking for.

And that means the recruiter/employer will not be able to resist giving your resume an attention to read all sections of it and learn what you have to offer them in the position of an accountant.

If your objective statement can get the recruiter/employer to read the whole of your accountant resume/CV, then it has succeeded in achieving its goal, and your chances of getting the job is higher.

You can learn about the accountant job and what the employer/recruiter wants prospective candidates to have to be employed by studying the job description and requirements that they published.

You will learn the duties and responsibilities the successful candidate will be expected to perform as an accountant with the organization, as well as the qualities, experience, training/education, etc. that they should possess to be considered for the job.

Having learned these things about the vacant accountant position, you can then create a powerful objective statement that shows that you possess the qualities and other things that are required for the job and will be highly effective on the job.

To show how a great resume objective statement for an accountant position looks like, here are good examples:

Top 20 Resume Objective Statements for Accountant Positions

• Certified Accountant with ability to key and verify accounts payable entries with accuracy, post expenses to the general ledger, and print reports. Desirous of an Accountant position with Springhill Medical Center, and coming with strong attention to detail, excellent written and oral communication skills, Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, 5 years entry level accounting experience, as well as experience with QuickBooks.
• To obtain a position with Anthem as an Accountant to leverage the ability to assist with monthly, quarterly, annual, and ad-hoc financial reporting and analysis; prepare accounting report schedules, monthly journal entries and account reconciliations; and review and verify accuracy of journal entries and accounting classifications assigned to various records. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and 5 years of experience, as well as ability to coordinate accounting matters with other departments, locations, and divisions.
• Energetic individual with five years of experience working in an accountant position, seeking to apply team oriented skills, strong analytical skills, detail oriented, and ability to multi-task and work quickly with a sense of urgency as an Accountant with XYZ Company. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree, computer literacy, and proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel; high level of ethics and integrity; and ability to analyze various accounting processes.
• Individual with strong reasoning ability looking to contribute enough experience in an Accountant job at Lockheed Martin Corporation. Coming with ability to support the accounting system and related interfaces and system accesses. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, SAP-Financial and Controlling experience, ERP experience, CPA license, strong analytical and problem solving skills, communication skills, and strong knowledge of accounting.
• Talented individual seeking a position with Total Scope as an Accountant with ability to prepare asset and liability entries by compiling and analyzing account information; processing accounts payable and accounts receivable payments; and assisting in performing monthly, quarterly, and annual accounting activities. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, knowledge of basic accounting procedures and principles, experience with general ledger functions and the month-end process, as well as accuracy and attention to detail.
• Individual with strong ability to learn fast interested in the position of an Accountant at Northrop Grumman to interpret data with various levels of problem solving and demonstrated ability to prepare monthly account reconciliations, and resolve any accounting discrepancies or irregularities. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, knowledge of software applications, proficiency at using Microsoft Word and Excel, and exposure to financial reporting tools.
• Active individual with huge accounting skills and ability to perform analysis and reconciliation of variety of integrated accounts within an entire accounting system. Longing for a position at US Department of Veterans Affairs to bring a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, as well as ability to conduct day-to-day operational maintenance of financial accounts which are the basis for the preparation of such key statements as trail balances which are used to prepare NCA’s audits and financial statements.
• Safety conscious individual with high level of skills and experience. Desirous of an Accountant position with Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, to bring a Bachelor’s degree in Accountant, 5 years of experience as an Accountant, experience with multi-site operations and high growth environment. Also bringing advanced level skills in the use of Microsoft Office suite, and ability to help prepare consolidated internal and external financial statements by gathering and analyzing information.
• Experienced, talented, and highly organized individual seeking an Accountant position with UNC-Chapel Hill. Coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and ability to reconcile the University’s main operating bank accounts along with preparing and filing monthly sales and Use Tax reports. Also bringing profound ability to supervise Cancel and Re-issuance of Bank checks; monitor daily bank transactions and receipts; as well as prepare daily deposit for receipts, vouchers, and post transactions to the University PeopleSoft Financial System.
• Individual seeking an Accountant position at The Center for Health Affairs with ability to maintain complex set of financial accounting codes as required by the law and administrative requirements. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; 5 years of payroll experience; strong organizational skills; strong excel skills; attention to detail; strong oral and written communication skills with proven ability to interact effectively and positively with other employees, leadership, and external professionals.
• An enthusiastic individual desirous of an Entry Level Accounting position with College of Southern Nevada to analyze requisitions, purchase orders, supplier invoices, asset additions and disposals. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, demonstrated experience in research and application of accounting standards of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), 5 years of progressive professional accounting experience, accuracy and detail-orientation, strong analytical, as well as proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly trained individual seeking to work in an Accounting position with Honkamp Krueger & Co., to process monthly accounts; prepare bank reconciliations, payroll records, tax plans, and year-end financial statements; maintain client depreciation schedules; assist clients with accounting questions; as well as maintain client contacts. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, CPA, excellent communication skills, and ability to learn new software programs.
• Talented individual seeking a position with Chipotle as an Accountant where the ability to analyze bank reports and POS deposits to generate cash discrepancy reports, and follow up on material adjustments as required will be utilized. Also bringing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance, excellent verbal and written communication skills, computer skills, and problem solving skills.
• Team oriented individual eager to work at Shields Health Care Group, to apply exceptional ability to actively participate and support the full month close cycle, including AP, AR, Cash and Financial Statement preparation; and ensure the accuracy of financial statements in accordance with GAAP and compliance with internal policies. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, 5 years of progressive accounting experience, proficiency with accounting software systems, experience with Sage, and advanced Excel skills, as well as excellent problem solving and analytical skills.
• Highly talented and motivated Accountant seeking the position at Lucid Hearing to manage daily, weekly, and monthly sales reporting and quick turnaround for requested data; and assist in the development and presentation of annual budgets and forecasts. Also bringing a 4-year degree in the field of Accounting, strong problem solving, and analytical skills, clear and effective verbal and written communication skills, and knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Hopeful to gain employment with Wise Health System as an Accountant to supervise staff, take care of vendor issues and customer service, monthly reconcile GL accounts, and conduct monthly and quarterly reporting. Also coming with analytical skills, Bachelor’s degree, 4 years accounting experience, as well as leadership and management competences.
• Looking for the position of an Accountant with United States Army to receive and post documents to accounting and budgets systems, process treasury checks for payments and pay for invoices, maintain files, and prepare financial reports and travel vouchers. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree, Social Security Card license, computation of pay and deductions, excellent computer skills, and ability to work with numbers and review contracts and invoices.
• Creative and problem-solving professional desirous to join a group of professionals at US Department of Defense in the position of an Accountant. Coming with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a certificate as Certified Public Accountant, 5 years of specialized experience, GS-09 grade level specialized experience, and the ability to coordinate complex accounting and financial data, and work with internal and external customers on all Acquired-to-Retire (A2R) business cycle accounting and financial management functions.
• Seeking an Accountant job at First Transit with ability to prepare client invoices for revenue services and fuel purchases; maintain a monthly file of invoices, PPE Classified Earnings, and all other relevant monthly expenses for month end detail review; and prepare monthly payroll accruals. Also coming with 10 years of accounting experience and managing an office; experience with MS Office products and accounting and accounting software, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized individual interested in an Accountant position with LHC Group, Inc. where strong ability to apply accounting principles and procedures to analyze financial information, prepare accurate and timely financial reports, and ensure appropriate accounting control procedures will be applied. Also coming with a Bachelor’s degree, 5 years of accounting and health experience, Excel skills, attention to detail, and excellent analytical skills, good communication skills, and ability to work within a collaborative team environment.

If you desire to get a nice paying job as an accountant, your resume must have a well persuasive objective statement to stand a better chance of being read.

This post provides you with great ideas and examples you can apply in making an exceptional resume objective statement for any accountant position you are applying for.

Recommended:

This Site Uses Cookies

Privacy overview.

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

Accountant resume objective examples.

Curated by hiring managers, here are proven resume objectives you can use as inspiration while writing your Accountant resume.

• Financial Analyst transitioning to Accountant
• Recent Finance Graduate seeking Accountant role
• Senior Auditor transitioning to Accountant
• Accountant resume templates
• Similar objective examples

Accountant Resume Objective Example

Demonstrate significant accomplishments.

Handling large portfolios is a feat not everyone can claim; managing $50M+ portfolios shows your ability to handle pressure, make sound judgments, and perform at a high level. This can definitely catch the eye of hiring managers looking for seasoned professionals.

Quantify cost-saving achievements

Saving a company money is a tangible achievement that hiring managers value. By stating that you've implemented cost-saving measures reducing expenses by 20%, you're showing that you can provide tangible value to the company's bottom line.

Financial Analyst transitioning to Accountant Resume Objective Example

Highlight transferable skills.

When transitioning to a new role, it's important to pinpoint skills that can be applied in your new position. Managing financial forecasting and budgeting for a $100M division indicates that you have a firm grasp of financial operations and can handle large-scale responsibilities.

Show innovation

By saying you've implemented a new data analysis methodology that increased forecast accuracy by 30%, you're showing your ability to think creatively and improve processes, which is a valuable trait in any role - especially in accounting where accuracy is essential.

Your resume is your ticket to your dream job. But is it up to par? Our tool analyzes your resume and provides a comprehensive report on how to improve it. Get actionable insights and start landing more interviews today.

Recent Finance Graduate seeking Accountant role Resume Objective Example

Leverage internship experience.

Even if you're a recent graduate, any experience can be of value if presented right. Assisting in the preparation of quarterly financial reports during a college internship shows you've had hands-on experience with fundamental accounting tasks.

Present problem-solving skills

By identifying a recurring error that saved the firm $10k annually, you're showing your eye for detail and problem-solving skills - both of which are highly valued in the accounting profession.

Senior Auditor transitioning to Accountant Resume Objective Example

Use relevant experience.

Although you're transitioning to a new role, auditing experience is highly relevant for an Accountant role. Managing audits for clients with revenues exceeding $100M indicates that you're familiar with large-scale financial operations and capable of meticulous financial investigation.

Display regulatory acumen

Finding compliance issues that saved clients from potential multi-million dollar fines not only proves your knowledge of financial regulations but also shows your ability to protect a company from costly mistakes - a highly valuable skill in the eyes of any employer.

Accountant Resume Templates

Cost analyst.

Credit Analyst

Procurement

Finance Resume Summary Examples

• > Bookkeeper Summary Examples
• > Financial Advisor Summary Examples
• > Financial Analyst Summary Examples

Finance Resume Objective Examples

• > Bookkeeper Objective Examples
• > Financial Advisor Objective Examples
• > Financial Analyst Objective Examples

Finance Resume Guides

• > Bookkeeper Resume Guides
• > Financial Advisor Resume Guides
• > Financial Analyst Resume Guides

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

How to Write an Accounting Resume Objective With Examples

Quick Navigation:

Why an objective statement on your accountant resume is important

How to write an accounting resume objective, best skills to include in your accounting resume objective, examples of accounting resume objectives.

Think of your resume objective as your first impression on an employer when you are applying for an accounting position. Your resume objective can help you to stand out and to show who you are, beyond your accounting background or credentials. This article explains how you can write a strong and concise accounting resume objective when you’re creating a resume for an accounting job application.

Your objective statement is the first thing an employer sees and therefore is one of the best opportunities you have to impress them. Your objective statement is not only a place for you to showcase your personality, but it’s a place for you to show your motivation for the role and your desire to set goals and succeed in achieving them. 

Since the role of an accountant requires a person who is a problem-solver and has great critical thinking skills, your resume objective is also a section where you can highlight attributes like being detailed-oriented, dedicated and focused on building the brand as a whole. You’ll want to make sure you’re presenting your information with confidence and in an organized way. 

Here are some steps you can follow to create an accountant resume objective: 

• First, start things off by mentioning your strongest character trait.
• Next, introduce yourself and mention your applicable experience.
• Then, make things personal by addressing the company by name and the position you are applying for. 
• Finally, capture the attention of the hiring manager by showing what you can offer and mentioning your biggest achievements.

A good general rule is to keep your resume objective concise. If you’re a motivated accountant who increases your sales every quarter and can back that information up with examples, then your objective is a great place to point that out. Whenever possible you should offer numbers as a way to bring out tangible proof of your accomplishments. 

Here are the most highly sought-after accounting skills that employers look for:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Microsoft Dynamics GP
• Apache OFBiz
• Openbravo certified
• Bookkeeping
• Accounts payable/receivable
• Mathematical skills
• Critical thinking 
• Problem-solving
• Detail-oriented

Highlighting just one or two of these skills in your resume objective can show that you have both the technical abilities and the soft skills needed to be successful in the accounting industry. Be sure to review the job posting to find the keywords that the employer values the most that are also relevant to your own accounting skills.

Here are some examples of resume objectives that you can use as guidelines when writing your own accounting resume:

• ‘Looking to develop my career in a senior accounting position where I will be able to contribute my critical thinking skills, QuickBooks knowledge and 10 years of experience with a national accounting firm.’
• ‘Highly motivated, well-organized Junior Accountant ready to grow and engage in a career with a company that allows for progress in accounting expertise and innovation.’
• ‘Recent graduate seeking a finance career that builds on my education and develops new skills in accounts receivable as an Accounting Assistant with Continental Industries.’
• To work toward a Certified Public Accountant position at Bradley & Co. while managing accounts receivable and accounts payable for Fortune 500 clients.
• Passionate about building on my existing bookkeeping skills and developing analytic and transaction skills to increase office efficiencies with the finance team at United Associates Auditing.

• AI Content Shield
• AI KW Research
• AI Assistant
• SEO Optimizer
• AI KW Clustering
• Customer reviews
• The NLO Revolution
• Press Center
• Help Center
• Content Resources
• Facebook Group

Accounting Resume Objective: Effective Guide With Examples

Table of Contents

Becoming an accountant is a big deal; acquiring the necessary skills takes years of training. However, landing a good job requires more than the right skills. You must demonstrate your skills and qualifications with an excellent resume and a brilliant job objective. A well-written  accounting job objective for resume  will help you stand out and quickly put you in the good books of the recruiter.

Your resume objective can be the difference between landing a job interview and getting ignored. This article discusses how to write captivating accounting resume objectives highlighting your professional accounting goals.

What Is An Accounting Job Objective for a Resume?

A resume is a document that contains personal and professional information about a job applicant. Such information includes education, work experience, and professional skills.

A resume includes not only your work history; it gives information about your career goals and objectives. The job or career objective statement is one of the most important sections of the resume that can significantly impact your success. This is where you discuss your career objectives and goals for the position you’re applying for. 

Why Is It Vital to Have An Accounting Resume Objective?

An accounting resume objective allows you to highlight your professional ambitions and goals for the job you’re seeking . The resume objective typically takes the top place of your resume to capture the manager’s attention and make a good first impression.

An accounting resume objective allows you to demonstrate how your prior work experience will help you achieve your objectives. With the help of an accounting resume objective, you can display your personality and motivation for the position you’re seeking for. You also have the chance to showcase your capacity for developing and achieving goals. In this section, you can emphasize your problem-solving, critical thinking, and confidentiality skills, which are pertinent to the accounting industry.

How to Write a Resume Objective for Accounting

Because an accounting resume objective is the first thing a hiring manager sees, it’s essential to highlight your most paramount career goals. Use this opportunity to make a solid first impression!

To draft your accounting resume objective, keep the following steps in mind:

1. Maintain Clarity and Conciseness.

Always ensure to keep your resume’s objectives clear and concise. Do so in a few phrases (two should suffice). Maintaining clarity and conciseness increases the likelihood that hiring managers will notice and read your complete resume.

2. Begin by Drawing Attention.

Hiring managers are busy people who get a large number of resumes daily. A compelling objective will be required to make your resume stand out and capture their attention. Start with your most exceptional successes, then move on to your most impressive professional aspirations.

3. Emphasize Your Strongest Qualities.

Having relevant soft skills can give you an advantage when looking for jobs. You aim to demonstrate your career objectives, but you’d be better off adding soft skills, such as deductive reasoning.

4. Talk About your Relevant Credentials.

If you have any certifications, such as an accounting degree or a certification that qualify you for the job, mention them briefly.

5. Showcase the Value You Contribute.

Hiring managers are constantly looking for people who will contribute the most to the organization they are hiring. When developing your accounting resume objective, consider the value you can bring to the firm. Discuss your relevant professional successes or a special skill you have. This will let the hiring manager know what you have to offer immediately.

6. Make Your Career Objectives Clear.

Your professional objectives assist the recruiting manager in determining your suitability for the position. Include the role you’re looking for and what you’ll accomplish in that role.

7. Put Accounting Front and Center.

Last but not least, remember that you are looking for an accounting position or employment. Therefore, be sure to write a resume objective that is specific to an accounting position. To determine what is most crucial for the role, carefully review the job description.

Accounting Job Objective for Resume Examples

Reading through sample objectives can assist you in developing a solid accounting resume objective. The examples below will help you showcase your skills and attract employers. This is regardless of whether you’re a new graduate or have been in the profession for years. 

Tax Accountant Resume Objective

• “Tax accountant with ten years of experience seeking supervisory position to apply my knowledge of tax return preparation and analysis.”
• I want to use my 12 years of experience to work with foreign corporations as a tax accountant for [Company Name].

Staff Accountant Resume Sample

• I’m looking for a tax accountant role with [Company Name] that will allow me to work with foreign corporations.
• Seeking a job as a Staff Accountant with [Company Name] to use my knowledge in economics, banking, and computer science.

Fresher Graduate (Entry Level) Career Objective for an Accountant

• Motivated college graduate seeking an accountant position with [Company Name] that will utilize my strong deductive thinking, economics, and problem-solving abilities.
• To find work with a respected organization where I can fully use my abilities, financial management background, and accounting degree.

Accountant Career Objective for an Experienced Candidate

• A CPA-certified accountant, seeking to join the team at [Company Name] to help with efficient financial reports.
• A highly skilled professional with a unique understanding of accounting principles and procedures. 5 years of corporate finance expertise working with global organizations, and seeking an accountancy position at [Company Name].

A well-written resume job objective is essential when vying for any accounting position . Approach your  accounting job objective for resume  will all seriousness and 

Tailor your objective to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight your skills and experience, and pay close attention to details. Lastly, proofread your content. 

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

Explore All Write Job Objectives Articles

Better & effective mechanical engineer career objective examples.

If you’re looking for mechanical engineer career objective examples, you’re at the right place! A career objective is a statement…

• Write Job Objectives

Better Guide to Customer Service Job Objective Statement

Are you looking for a job that will allow you to help people and make them happy? If so, then…

A Guide to Writing Career Objective in a CV for Civil Engineers

The job market for civil engineers is becoming more and more competitive. Landing your dream job today depends on how…

Career Objective for a Security Guard Job: an Effective Guide

A career objective for a security guard job in your resume helps secure the position you are looking for in…

A Guide to Writing Career Objectives for Hospitality Job

Do you wish to work in the hospitality sector? This quick guide will show you how to set effective career…

Effective Teacher Job Objective For Resume

A resume objective is an essential part of a teacher’s resume. It helps to quickly and effectively summarize the skills…

Build my resume

• Resume builder
• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

21 Accountant Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Accountant Resume

• Accountant Resumes by Experience
• Accountant Resumes by Role

Writing Your Accountant Resume

A business is only as valuable as its finances, so successful organizations are built on a foundation of solid accounting practices. To be a successful accountant, you need to be diligent, organized, and an expert with numbers and financial data.

However, to get a role as an accountant, you need to rely on a completely different skill set:  resume writing . (And let’s not forget about cover letter writing! )

That’s where we come in. We’ve reviewed countless accountant resumes, distilling what works and what doesn’t into  21 accountant resume examples that you can use to help you get your next accounting job in 2024!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Our special tip: avoid any images or graphics. Before a recruiter or hiring manager looks at your resume, a computer scans it for keywords, and graphics are hard for software to read. 
• We’d also recommend putting your experience in reverse-chronological order. By putting your most recent job first, employers will see how you’ve progressed in your career.
• Include the name of the company you’re applying to, the position you’re seeking, and what you hope to achieve in your next role.

Accounting Intern Resume

• When you lack paid work experience, use relevant academic or personal projects to showcase your skills, passion, and capabilities.

Accounting Assistant Resume

• In this resume, the candidate carried out a simulated audit of a fictional company and showcased multiple skills that will help them be a better accounting assistant. If you have similar experiences to talk about, you want to add them to your accounting assistant resume .

Entry-Level Accountant Resume

• Because of your limited background in accounting, don’t worry about trying to extend or fluff your minimal experience.
• Instead,  list any work experience and highlight transferrable skills , like written communication, data analysis, and research.
• Try following a  resume outline  to help you organize your thoughts and ensure you’ve put everything you need onto a single sheet of paper.
• Once you’ve completed the outline, you can use a  resume template  to format your content correctly and make it look great, too.

Junior Cost Accountant Resume

• Using a  resume objective  can be a great decision if you’re having trouble filling the page or trying to provide hiring managers with more context as to why you want the job. 
• But please be cautious and  double-check your resume  before submitting an application!
• Imagine submitting your resume for a position at Instacart and realizing you left the name of another target company in your resume objective. Facepalm anyone?

Junior Accountant Resume

• A ChatGPT resume builder can help you highlight your past accomplishments in any roles or projects that are related to finance or show your knowledge/ability to use an accounting tool. Personalize the objective as much as possible to convey why you’re so passionate about getting hired!

Senior Accountant Resume

• You can further support your work by adding metrics to  show how you’ve helped the company , especially when it comes to revenue.
• But remember that even a spellcheck system misses things, so ask a colleague to review your resume! You’ll be amazed at what they’ll catch before you turn in your application.

Payroll Accountant Resume

• Certificates like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) prove that you possess the necessary financial skills , knowledge, and experience to apply for this role! Don’t be too overconfident though. Ensure you back your certification with performance metrics that depict you as a diligent and hard worker.

Accounting Analyst Resume

• As you tailor your accounting analyst resume hoping to get the job, include your measurable impact in expediting accounts, invoices, and response to ad-hoc request processing times.

Fund Accountant Resume

• Felix’s example is the best answer to that question. Everything is displayed for the recruiting team to see and make a quick decision. Follow this lead to boost the chances of your application sailing through.

Accounting Specialist Resume

Cost Accountant Resume

• What was your impact in similar or related roles? Tap into you quantifiable achievements, such as accuracy rates, reduction in operational expenses, and workflow improvements.

Staff Accountant Resume

• Beyond just your education section, you can include your progress in a  resume objective  or a  resume summary .
• A great way to do this is through the use of action verbs like “owned,” “led,” and “advised.”
• It’s also a good idea to  show how you’ve made a positive difference  in the company. Use metrics to strut your stuff!
• For example, did you increase revenue or efficiency? Discuss it with numbers and percentages that show your impact.

Forensic Accountant Resume

• Unlike a  resume objective , a summary statement focuses on leveraging the abilities you’ve learned throughout your career.
• Make sure your summary statement includes your years of experience in accounting and the company to which you’re applying (plus the job title). 
• Start by putting your work experience in reverse-chronological order, meaning that your most recent work experience will be listed at the top of the page.
• Then you can consider things like alignment, color, and consistency. Whatever you do, make sure your resume is easy to read at a glance!

Financial Analyst Accountant Resume

• Have you joined or started a group for accountants? Maybe you’ve written a personal finance book? Or perhaps you occasionally discuss financial trends at events outside of work? These are on-point examples of using your skills in unique ways, so they’re perfect resume components.
• Focus on including projects and volunteer experience that can demonstrate essential skills (like collaboration and communication). 
• Look for similar structures, word usage, and metrics to see how you can make your resume pop.

Management Accountant Resume

• Make sure that your  management accountant resume  shows your most relevant experience. Include your most significant accomplishments, like if you’ve led any projects or saved your company a lot of money.
• Although your goal is to show your most relevant work, having a cohesive career progression is more important. Employers want to see that you’ve been consistently working.
• Look for specific skill keywords and responsibilities listed in the job description and incorporate them into your work experience and skills section to make the best impact.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Resume

• To keep to a single page, make your bullet points short. Ideally, every point should be  one sentence  and a  maximum of three lines long .
• List accomplishments and achievements by all means, but don’t clutter your space with empty adjectives or adverbs. Words like “successfully” and “as needed” are generally assumed, so leave them out.
• Certifications need their own section, but you don’t need to add much more than the name of your certificate. You can include the organization that offers the certificate, but most hiring managers will know that information already, so don’t stress about it.

Onboarding Accountant Resume

• However, your  resume is not your cv . As hard as it is to break up with your old jobs, it’s for the best. The best resumes include just three to six of your most relevant work experience roles. 
• Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring team reviewing 100+ resumes. What work experience would stand out and be the most relevant for the position?
• And if you’re worried about forgetting or losing information from your work history that could be relevant later on, don’t sweat it. You can create a separate document with a “master list” of work experience that you can pull from for different jobs.

Accounting Clerk Resume

• Think of the skills section of your resume as a peek into your technical prowess with accounting software. Any tools that help you do your job better are worth adding to this part of your accounting clerk resume .

Tax Accountant Resume

• In this resume example, the candidate’s last job was as a tax accountant—the same position they’re applying to. Putting it at the top highlights what you’ve been able to achieve at your previous job.

Public Accounting Resume

• Do you hold a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification? If you’ve completed your CPA, it’s proof that you have a license and the knowledge to provide accounting services to the public.

Related resume guides

• Bank Teller
• Accounts Payable
• Financial Analyst

As an accountant, you know that precision matters. You’re expected to be an analytical expert who can produce reliable research and solve complex legal and financial problems. So, think of your resume not only as a place to highlight your experience but also as a place to demonstrate your attention to detail and high standard of work.

Boosting your resume’s potential requires special attention to these four areas: 

• Listing accounting skills 
• Formatting your accountant resume properly
• Quantifying your previous impact
• Customizing your resume to each job

List the right accountant skills

When recruiters post an  accountant job description , it’s not unheard of for them to receive upwards of 100 resumes. With the sheer number of applicants, companies can’t carefully review every accountant’s application. The applicant tracking system (ATS) software helps weed out applicants before a recruiter reviews them, which saves time and gets rid of candidates without the right experience.

Applicant tracking systems work by using algorithms that match keywords from the company to keywords in your resume. So even if you’re highly qualified for a job, your resume may be thrown out if it doesn’t include the right keywords. To avoid this, you need to know  how  to include job-appropriate  skills on your resume  (keywords). 

What are the right skills? The right skills will vary depending on the accountant role. Read this excerpt from a sample accountant job description and see if you can pick up on the essential skills: 

Greenhill is seeking a certified accountant who can tackle every level of the accounting process, from balancing ledgers to researching the law and analyzing data to ensure efficient and effective operations. This position is ideal for candidates who are jacks of all trades! Must possess strong public speaking and collaboration skills while demonstrating initiative and the capacity to conduct independent work. 

Based on this small sample, we can create a list of essential skills customized for the job.  You do  not  want to take exact words from the job description or lie about your skill level . Instead, use the accountant job description as a jumping-off point to think about the most relevant skills you possess: 

• Accounting applications: Quickbooks, ERP, Concur, Taxjar
• Tax accounting
• Expense reporting
• State law compliance
• Accounts payable/receivable
• Collaboration and communication
• Data analysis and research presentations

On other accountant job postings, you can expect to see different skills emphasized, such as:

Choose the best resume format

It’s not just about  what  you write on your accountant resume; it’s about  how  you write it. Your  resume format  is important for ensuring that your resume is visually appealing, easy to read, and easy for the ATS to recognize. For these reasons, we always suggest the reverse-chronological format to keep your most recent job experience listed at the top of your resume, but there are some other aspects of resume formatting you need to know.

Here are some other essential elements of resume formatting that you should pay attention to:

• Resume length:  Always ensure your resume is a full, single-sided page.
• Bullet points:  Break up large text sections about your work experience with classic round bullet points.
• Avoiding icons/images:  The ATS does not seem to appreciate icons/images; neither will recruiters.
• Listing the title of the position you’re seeking:  Specialize your resume for each job you apply for to show respect and genuine interest in the job. (This is especially useful for a company that may be hiring for multiple positions.)
• Objective/Summary:  Only use one when necessary (hang tight—we’re about to cover this in-depth).

Remember these formatting tips, and you’ll be confident that your resume is ATS-friendly and easy to read for recruiters. 

Understand the elusive resume objective and summary

All right, back to the objective and summary.  A resume objective  is one of the most misunderstood sections of your resume. Most people think objectives are outdated and pointless, but that’s only the case if you don’t tailor them and keep them short. 

But what exactly is a resume objective? And what’s the difference between that and a resume summary? Let’s dive in!

A resume objective and summary statement are both short, two to three-sentence paragraphs at the top of a resume to express your interest in a position or a brief career synopsis. Both require customization and should be avoided if you don’t plan on writing a new one for every job application. 

However, these two types of paragraphs differ in how they communicate interest in the job. An objective describes  the value you’ll add to a company  and  why you want the job . Objectives are best suited to accountants who are just starting their careers or going through a career change (like from a staff accountant to an accounts payable specialist). 

A  resume summary  highlights  your past work experience , leveraging it to  prove your qualifications and skills . Because the summary relies on many past job experiences, it’s only recommended for senior accountants with many years of industry experience. 

Let’s work through a few examples together, so you can better understand all the moving parts: 

Poor resume objective:  Years of experience in the industry, looking for a full-time job in the accounting field with benefits. 

• There are multiple issues at play here. First, it’s uninformative. The applicant doesn’t list anything that provides concrete evidence of their skills. Secondly, it’s not specific. They don’t mention a particular job title, applicable skills, or the company to which they’re applying. Lastly, this candidate is only focused on what the job will do  for   them . You need to mention why you’ll be an asset to the company, not what the job will provide for you personally.

Better resume objective:  Detailed junior accountant with 4+ years of experience working for Big Four accounting firms. Seeking an opportunity as a staff accountant at a smaller-scale operation like Fender Co., where my specializations in optimizing pricing through software adoption and systems streamlining would positively impact sales. 

• This resume objective makes the case that the applicant is valuable to the company by highlighting relevant skills and years of experience. Furthermore, it’s customized to the specific job the candidate is seeking, which is a major green flag for employers. 

Poor summary statement:  Experience as an accountant for 3 businesses. My role, which was providing organized, detailed work for all 3 companies, positively impacted the companies. 

• This statement is vague and confusing, not to mention it’s poorly worded. Would you trust this person with your company’s financial accounts? 

Better summary statement:  Data-driven certified accountant with specialized work in small and mid-size businesses for 22 years. Dedicated to providing services that adhere to GAAP standards while optimizing operations and financial performance. Expertise in many types of accounting software relevant to business size, including Xero, QuickBooks, Zoho, and SAP. Experience supervising and collaborating across cross-functional teams and departments while increasing ROI by 5%+ YTD. 

• This summary statement provides specific metrics, specialized skills, and a job title. It’s a great example of a strong statement that would impress a hiring team. 

Quantify your positive impact as an accountant

If you want to prove to a company that you’re an excellent accountant, you’ll want to focus on numbers. Quantifying your impact on your accountant resume provides concrete proof that you’re an asset to the company.

Fortunately, as an accountant, there are many ways to quantify your impact, such as:

• Internal company operations:  Have you worked with company executives to propose financial incentives to improve employee retention? Have you instituted software adoption that reduced error rates? 
• Leadership:  Do you manage, mentor, or collaborate with a team? Do you work across several departments? 
• Work with vendors:  Do you assess vendor invoicing or review vendor statements? Do you manage accounts payable for vendors? 
• Clients:  How many clients do you advise if you work with individual clients? How long have you retained these clients? 
• Revenue:  How much revenue does the company you work for generate? How many assets do you oversee? How much have you saved in potential penalty costs? 
• Reductions in error rates:  Have you reduced errors during employment at your past jobs? Do you use specific types of software to minimize mistakes? 

Based on the above, check out these examples that demonstrate how metrics can fuel your bullet points: 

• Proactively identified and communicated potential problem areas related to a client’s reporting issue, saving the client $2K+ in penalty fees
• Supported management in executing an employee equity compensation plan to improve employee retention by 11%
• Led a team of 2 junior accountants, providing mentorship and feedback through weekly 1:1 sessions
• Reconciled vendor statements in QuickBooks, investigating and correcting any discrepancies within 48 hours 

Optimize your accountant resume for each job

Unfortunately, you can’t just have one copy of your resume that you submit for every accountant job application. Every application deserves a tailored resume.

With the job description in view, these are the areas you’ll need to pay special attention to:

• Objective/summary statement:  Remember how we encouraged you to include specific company names? One of an applicant’s worst mistakes is failing to change the company name on multiple job applications. Make sure you read over your statement (if included) before submitting your resume, changing the job title, skills, and company name.
• Skills:  To customize your skills section, read the job description. Often, hiring managers will overtly say what skills are important for the specific accounting job (but be careful not to plagiarize). 
• Job description bullet points:  Are you applying to a job that needs you to interface with clients? Or maybe you’ll be working behind the scenes with data? Think about how you can shift how you discuss your work experience to highlight what’s important for each particular job. 

We know it’s frustrating to focus on customizations when you want to submit multiple applications in a short amount of time. Consider creating a document with a master list of job description bullet points and skills, sorted into groups based on the skills you need to highlight (e.g., one section that demonstrates your accuracy, another for client interactions, another for public speaking, etc.). Then, you can pick and pull things from this document to create fully customized resumes in no time. 

For now, we think you’ll find something to help you get started on your accountant resume, no matter the exact role: 

Accountant resume 

• Do you have experience in general ledger (GL) accounting? 
• Remember, you don’t need to include all of these accounting skills in each position, but they must be covered at least once somewhere on your accountant resume. 

Senior accountant resume 

• Underscore things like extensive improvements in efficiency rates, accuracy, and year-to-year financial growth. 
• Have you collaborated with upper management to set company-wide standards or implement internal policies or financial work incentives? 
• Highlight your ability to step into leadership and mentorship roles. 

Accounts payable resume 

• Hone in on what matters by discussing payment processing and review, tracking business expenses (such as vendor invoices), and ensuring GL and GAAP compliance. 
• Highlight your attention to detail and how it has saved revenue for companies you’ve worked for in the past.

Entry-level accountant resume 

• You can leverage almost any job position to highlight particularly relevant skills in accounting. For example, a restaurant server can still balance payments, check receipts against bills, etc. 
• Read the job description carefully, noting what skills are most important to the hiring team and emphasizing your capacity to work in accounting based on their requirements. 

Staff accountant resume

• Your staff accountant resume should focus on general ledger maintenance/oversight, tax revenue billing, accounts payable/receivable, reports, and general record-keeping. 
• Don’t forget to showcase your potential for job advancement down the road by highlighting any aspects in which you provided management/supervisory work. 

Final takeaway for improving your accountant resume

The hardest part of writing your accountant resume is getting started, so congratulate yourself on starting your resume journey! You’re one step closer to creating your best-ever accounting resume. We’ve laid out all the essential tips, including optimizing your skills section, formatting, metrics, and resume customizations, so you can write an amazing resume in no time. 

We also have a host of tools to make resume writing easier. See how your resume stacks up against our AI-powered tips. Or, if it’s time to  write your resume  for the first time, you can use our  resume builder  with built-in formatting standards and corresponding recommendations to keep the process stress-free, easy, and quick—leaving you time also to craft a killer  accountant cover letter  for your dream role. 

No matter what stage you’re at, we’re here to help, and we wish you the best of success!