As much as we love our children sometimes we feel the urge to take on a job. Something that can give us time to experience the magic of raising our kids, as well as challenge ourselves, especially when that moment arrives: the moment where your kids start school and you end up in your home missing them. Thinking of getting a part-time job would be the perfect thing to get your mind off things.
Nowadays, part-time jobs are not only anywhere, but are as many as we can possibly imagine. Instead of choosing any job think about something that you could integrate in your everyday life, for example accounting can be a good fit for us mothers, in fact it gives you the possibility to professionally taking care of your own family’s finances, which not many have the skills to do.
Although, this is not an easy path to undertake; in fact, certificates/degree are necessary to practice. Do not fret many are the options for all of us, busy moms: for example night classes, or even better online courses where you will be able to attend directly from the comfort of your own home. Be prepared to spend some time with your nose stuck in books, always remember that we are talking about a job that requires mathematical skills, patience, a detailed-oriented mind and studying. Also remember to always stay current, do not skip classes, or assignments. Once you have earned the right qualifications is just the beginning; job-hunting starts, and eventually you will find yourself with your first interview. Once that day arrives you will be left with many unanswered questions on what is going to happen at the interview, what are they going to ask you, also what am I going to reply. That is why it is important to prepare before your accounting interview.
Here is some advice on how to answer the most common questions and land the job.
Why do you want to become an accountant?
The best way to answer this is to be honest. You can mention a future goal to show your determination by answering, “My goal is to become a financial manager. I recognize the need to understand the basics first and work my way up.” You can also mention your credentials and when you become passionate about accounting.
Which accounting software are you familiar with?
Mention accounting software (i.e. Online Accounting Software, AME Accounting Software, etc.) that you have experience with. Alternatively, even if you do not have experience or prefer to work manually, emphasize that you will work with their choice of software.
Give me an example of how you keep track of tasks that you need to complete.
To you other moms out there, this one you have got down! Since accounting requires organization, much like being a mother does, walk through how you prioritize tasks, as well as any systems or organizational tools you use.
Sometimes employers will ‘have fun’ with questions and ask weird and unrelated questions, i.e. What animal would you want to be and why?
There is no single best response to this. The real reason behind questions such as this one is to evaluate what the person will answer under pressure. It is okay to ask for a second to reply, and it is of fundamental importance that you reply honestly, and it is okay even to have fun with these sort of questions; as a mother spending her days with kids, these won’t be the questions that will stop you from getting what you want, let’s be honest our everyday pressures with kids are definitely harder, and sometimes stranger.
In collaboration with Mary