Advice for a Successful Career in the Accounting Profession

CHAPTER ELEVENBlocking and Tackling: The Importance of Being Organized and Nailing Both Big and Small Tasks

Key Takeaway

Organizational skills should be prioritized as they will be instrumental to your success. Also, make the time to do both the big AND the small things well and on time!

How organized are you? Accountants are responsible for many tasks and responsibilities, both large and small. They typically have specified due dates or “deadlines.” Effective professionals develop strategies and techniques for monitoring the status of their work and making sure both the big and little things get done well AND on time. In a technology‐enabled world, there are many ways to “keep track of things,” including electronic reminders. Maybe you prefer a handwritten “to do” list? The key is to use a system that works for you. This requires both organization and discipline. Sometimes it’s easier to focus on the more glamorous aspects of your job but your success will depend on your ability to prioritize appropriately, attend to the full array of your responsibilities and meet important deadlines. As your career advances, well developed skills in these areas will be instrumental to your success.

All jobs encompass a variety of tasks. Some duties, on the surface, may appear unimportant, even mundane. But as a professional you have a responsibility to be diligent in executing tasks that ...