Tax Preparation Job Skills Lead to Accounting and Auditing Jobs

Traditionally, accounting companies and tax preparation firms beef up their employee rosters every spring to deal with the demands of tax season. Once April 15 passed, however, tax preparers found themselves on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' list of the most laid-off professions in America. While government statistics indicate that many of those layoffs represent seasonal downsizing at tax preparation firms, analysts blame a slowing economy for this deeper than usual round of job cuts.

Many consumers and small business owners now rely on inexpensive software tools to handle tax filings, only occasionally scheduling visits with tax preparers for accuracy checks. Recession-weary Americans have also started filing taxes sooner in the year, enabling faster tax refunds but reducing the demand for premium services closer to filing deadlines. For seasonal tax preparation specialists and career professionals alike, this shift in customer demand signals an opportunity to segue into full-time careers as accountants and auditors.

Common Job Skills Among Tax Preparation Professionals

• Familiarity with changing government regulations
• Exposure to compliance standards
• Advanced mathematics skills and attention to detail

Career Opportunities for Graduates of Accounting Job Skills Programs

Employment opportunities for accounting professionals vary based on location and specialty. For instance, banking centers like Charlotte and energy-driven cities like Houston can experience wild employment swings based on the health of larger employers. In most other parts of the country, career retraining for accounting jobs opens up a variety of new jobs. Graduates can get hired by accounting firms, or by the accounting or auditing departments of companies in any industry. New Economy Careers for Former Tax Preparation Professionals

• Auditor
• Inventory Specialist
• Financial Analyst

Benefits of Career Retraining for Tax Preparers

Many tax preparation professionals started their careers working part-time, seasonal positions. With many businesses struggling to keep up with new government regulations on compliance and financial standards, the demand for skilled auditors and specialized accounts has grown. Government analysts note that graduates of the most current career retraining programs stand the best chance of qualifying for jobs that require an understanding of Sarbanes-Oxley and other corporate regulations.

Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Accountants and Auditors
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Mass Layoffs Summary
Houston Chronicle, Houston's job losses accelerating