How students can prepare for a successful accounting career now

Preparing for a career in accounting today means more than mastering debits and credits. As the profession evolves with new technologies, workplace norms, and expectations, you will need a broader toolkit to succeed. 

In a recent conversation with Lexi Weber, CPA, senior manager of Emerging Professionals Initiatives at the AICPA, student moderators Hunter Richardson and Katherine Suh explored what it really takes to be career ready in today’s accounting landscape.

The 3 skills that matter most right now

With an ever-changing accounting landscape, you may be wondering what skills to focus on. Lexi points to three essential areas:

1. Technology and adaptability

“We're noticing that there's been more rapid technological change in the last couple of years than we have seen in maybe 10 years prior,” Lexi said.

Rather than mastering specific tools, students should strengthen adaptability and become comfortable learning new systems quickly.

2. Communication

Technical skills alone won’t set you apart. Communication skills are critical in professional environments.

“Learning how to communicate in a professional setting and being clear about your goals is very important,” she said. 

3. Human connection

In an increasingly digital world, relationship building matters more than ever.

Building strong human connections with your clients and peers is how you create trust and provide the tailored service people value, according to Lexi. 

Navigating workplace expectations

From remote work to hybrid offices, even something as simple as what to wear can feel confusing.

Lexi explains that many firms now follow a “dress for your day” approach, with three general categories:

• Smart casual: A nice pair of jeans with a blouse or polo shirt
• Business casual: Dress pants, slacks, or a skirt
• Business professional: Adding a suit jacket or nice sweater 

When in doubt, simply ask. 

“Ask those that are around you and feel free to send an email ahead of time if you're not sure what the attire should be,” Lexi said.

Planning ahead and asking questions can eliminate unnecessary stress.

Staying organized when everything feels urgent

Balancing multiple assignments is part of both college and professional life. Lexi relies on simple but effective systems.

“I like to use lists, so I will write things down as soon as I get a task, which helps keep track of my responsibilities,” she said.

She also uses spreadsheets and calendar reminders.

Find a system that works for you and stick to it.

Managing stress and avoiding burnout 

Busy season is a reality, especially in public accounting, and learning how to manage it early is crucial.

Lexi admits it took time to figure this out.

“I learned by trial and error, and most of the time it was error,” she said. “There were busy seasons where I was putting my personal health on the back burner.”

Developing stress-management habits now can help you avoid burnout once you enter the workplace. Lexi’s biggest recommendation is making time to move every day, even if it’s just walking around your house for 15 minutes. 

More broadly, she emphasizes making time for what recharges you. That might mean exercise, sleep, meal prep, or spending time with family — whatever helps you stay balanced.

Communication: The number one skill 

When asked to choose one skill students must master, Lexi didn’t hesitate.

“If I had to choose one, it would be communication,” she said. 

The transition from college to full-time work requires a shift in how you communicate. In professional settings, you’ll need to provide project updates, track and explain how you spend your time, collaborate across teams, and request time off. 

Planning vacations or setting limits can feel intimidating early in your career. Lexi recommends being proactive.

“Try to give at least a month or two before you need to take off to let your team members know,” she said.

And don’t be afraid to communicate preferences. Clear, early communication builds trust and helps teams plan effectively.

Evaluating firm culture 

Choosing the right firm isn’t just about the job: it’s about alignment.

“You have to remember when you're interviewing for a job opportunity, it's a two-way street,” she said.

Students should ask questions like:

• What is your firm's culture like? 
• What are expectations around travel or work-life balance? 
• Can I speak with someone currently in the role? 

And once you’re on the job, keep learning by connecting with colleagues and observing how the organization operates.

Building relationships and habits for a successful career

As the conversation wrapped up, Lexi offered one simple but powerful piece of advice.

“I would just say get involved,” she said. 

Whether through student organizations, internships, or workplace initiatives, involvement builds connections and opens doors.

“Networking is such a huge piece of the profession,” she said. “It’ll set you up for success in the future.”

And networking is just one example of what career readiness really looks like. In accounting, success isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about building the right habits, skills, and mindset.

Focus on adaptability. Strengthen your communication. Take care of your well-being. And don’t underestimate the power of relationships.

If you start there, you won’t just be ready for your first job, you’ll be ready for a successful, long-term career.

Watch our webinar, “Start Strong: Career Readiness & Success Skills,” to hear the full conversation. (Scroll down to the “On Demand” section).