Qualifying as a chartered accountant is a major achievement, but it is only the beginning of your professional journey. The first few years after qualification can be critical in shaping your long-term career trajectory. The decisions you make, the experiences you seek and the habits you build during this stage of your career can significantly influence both your progression and success over time.
Here are some things I would aim for as a recently qualified accountant:
1. Be open to gaining new experiences
In the immediate period after qualification, one of the most valuable things you can do is broaden your experience. While your training contract will have equipped you with a strong technical foundation, it is important to recognise that there is still a lot to learn and new experiences to be gained.
Consider opportunities both within practice and in industry. A move into industry can provide exposure to commercial decision-making, budgeting and strategic planning, while remaining in practice may deepen your technical expertise and client-facing skills. There is no single “right” path – what matters most is choosing roles that expand your capabilities and expose you to new environments.
Being open-minded location-wise and sector-wise can also work well. Ireland’s dynamic economy means there are opportunities across technology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, financial services and SMEs. Early-career flexibility allows you to figure out which type of role and environment suits you best, helping you make more informed career decisions later on.
2. Take on new challenges
Once qualified, it can be tempting to gravitate towards areas you are familiar with. However, growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and now is a great time to try something new. Actively seek roles, projects or responsibilities that expose you to areas you may not have encountered during your training contract.
For example, if you trained in audit, you might pursue opportunities in financial reporting, M&A or internal finance functions. If you worked primarily with smaller entities, gaining exposure to larger group structures or multinational organisations can significantly enhance your skillset. Understanding complex group consolidations, international reporting standards, or cross-border operations will position you strongly for future senior roles.
Equally, volunteering for internal initiatives such as system implementations, process improvement projects, or ESG reporting can broaden your experience beyond traditional accounting work. These challenges not only build technical skills but also demonstrate initiative, a quality highly valued by employers.
Ultimately, being proactive in seeking out new experiences will accelerate your development and make you a more well-rounded professional.
3. Use office time wisely and build your network
In a mostly hybrid working environment, how you use your time in the office is more important than ever. Being physically present offers opportunities that cannot be fully replicated remotely learning through observation, asking questions in real time and building relationships.
Make a conscious effort to engage with colleagues at all levels. Ask questions, seek feedback and take the opportunity to learn from more experienced professionals. Informal interactions often provide insights that are just as valuable as formal training.
Building a strong professional network early in your career is also crucial. Relationships developed in your first few roles can benefit you for years to come, whether in terms of mentorship, career opportunities or professional support. Don’t limit your network to your immediate team – connect with colleagues across departments and where possible, maintain relationships with peers from your training contract.
In addition, consider getting involved in professional bodies, networking events or industry groups. These platforms can help you stay informed about industry trends while expanding your professional circle.
Final thoughts…
Your first few years as a newly qualified accountant are a unique window of opportunity. By staying open to new experiences, embracing challenges and making the most of your working environment, you can lay a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
Investing in your development at this stage will not only enhance your technical and professional skills but also give you clarity on the direction you want your career to take in the long-term.
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