With more than a decade spent recruiting professionals across finance and accounting, I hear one question more than almost any other: “How do I expand my network, and what can I do to get ahead in my career?” Everyone wants their resume to stand out and their next interview to land. Beyond the obvious — certifications and continued education — here are the things I’ve seen separate the accountants who climb from the ones who stall.

Volunteer or take a board seat.  Keep learning and giving back outside the day job. Don’t get too comfortable behind a screen crunching numbers — get out there. Serving as treasurer for a community organization or taking a seat on the board of a growing company builds skills, visibility, and relationships you won’t find at your desk.

Network with your counterparts.  Relationships compound over time. Get involved with professional groups locally and nationally — in Washington, D.C. that includes the GWSCPA, and nationally the AICPA, the Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance, and the Association for Corporate Growth.

Diversify your experience.  Accountants work across every industry and function. Exposure to different sectors — Fortune 500 and small business, audit and consulting — gives you judgment you can’t acquire any other way. Employers want that breadth.

Sharpen your communication.  Much of the work is heads-down with the numbers. But the moment you’re asked to explain them, your ability to make them digestible is what counts. You can spot the problem and know the solution — but if you can’t articulate it to an owner or a board, you lose their confidence. It takes time to build, and it’s one of the most important skills if you want to move up.

Stay steady under pressure.  Numbers are king, especially where money is involved. When something goes wrong, accountants often land in the crosshairs — sometimes for mistakes that aren’t theirs. The ability to stay calm and explain a tough situation rationally is what earns people’s trust.

Outwork the room.  Especially early in your career, put in the hours and go above and beyond for your client or employer. The effort you invest now is what gives you options later.

Finally, align yourself with a recruiter or search firm that knows the market, knows your worth, and understands your growth potential. The District Partners difference is that we look beyond the resume to the soft skills that make all the difference. Reach out — we’d be glad to help with your next move. 

Authored by Josh Fisher, Founder of District Partners.