How do I write a professional accounting resume?

Now you're ready to get down to business. The objective statement is a perfect way to begin because it can help you set the tone for the rest of the resume. A strong resume objective consists of two to four sentences that introduce the hiring managers to your professional background in accounting.

An accounting resume objective should include the following:

• How many years of experience you have as an accountant and the main duties you've performed

• The highest degree you hold and your certifications

• Which role you want to fill and why you'd be a good choice

Next, you need to include any hard or soft skills relevant to becoming an effective accountant. Accounting positions, especially junior positions, tend to focus on the type of hard skills a candidate has over soft skills. For example, include any computer skills needed to do the job effectively.

List your knowledge of spreadsheet software such as QuickBooks, Bookkeeping, or Payroll processing software and any experience using operating systems such as Windows or macOS.

That's not to say that soft skills aren't important. An accounting resume should highlight soft skills such as interpersonal skills, leadership skills, management skills, people skills, teamwork skills, and time management skills, to name a few. Finally, be sure to provide hard data and real-world examples as you highlight these hard and soft skills as they are related to accounting.