As with all professions, a stereotype of what a job entails develops over time. Sometimes these are correct and sometimes they are completely untrue. A career in accounting is commonly associated with being a ‘boring, number crunching job’, but we are here to tell you it’s not!
Here are the top accountancy myths busted
1. Accounting is just maths
Although numbers play a vital and recurrent role in accounting, accountants aren’t human calculators. Accounting is more about applied mathematics. Accountants analyse the business records of both small and large businesses to advise both stockholders and business owners on three main elements; what do the numbers mean, how to use them correctly and what to expect in the future with regards to profitability and revenue.
2. Accounting is a man’s job
Accounting has historically been a masculine profession and, to this day, it is still considered male-oriented by many. However, recent statistics have shown that 44% of all UK accountants are female and across the pond, 61% of all accountants in the USA are female, so this is a number definitely on the rise.
3. Accountants are boring and introverted
Of course not! Accountants are just like those in any other occupation, they have a social life outside work, families, hobbies, holidays, the whole heap. A dull personality isn’t a pre-requisite to studying accounting. A large part of accounting involves discussing matters with executives, stakeholders and business owners, so strong communication skills and a pleasant personality are needed. Also, note some of these famous faces who studied accountancy: world-renowned saxophone player, Kenny G and stand up comedian and actor Bob Newhart. They are neither boring or introverted.
4. Accountants are tax experts
Accountants are not the same as auditors. A majority of accountants are in no way qualified to do your taxes and tax accountants compose a small percentage of all accounting professionals. Don’t be led to believe that your working hours will be spent doing taxes. You have many other areas of accounting, including financial accounting, budgeting, cost accounting and government accounting. Every day can be different!
Ready to start your career in accountancy?
Look no further! Mont Rose College is a higher education college in Ilford within the greater London area. We offer a range of degree programs, HND and HNC courses in a variety of fields. Our courses are funded by Student Finance England, enabling those eligible to apply for funding. Start your new career in accountancy now – get in contact today!
