Employers today seek accounting and finance applicants who possess the following:

• Professional credentials: The certified public accountant (CPA) accreditation is the most highly sought after designation for accounting and finance roles. In addition, employers value such certifications as the chartered financial analyst (CFA), certified internal auditor (CIA), certified management accountant (CMA), chartered accountant (CA) and certified information systems auditor (CISA). A master's degree in business administration (MBA) also is beneficial, particularly for senior-level finance positions.
• Broad accounting expertise: Companies are looking for individuals with diverse skill sets. Managers often are unable to fill multiple openings within their departments due to budget cuts and, as a result, need staff who can perform a range of tasks. For instance, a firm might hire an accountant who also has the ability to perform financial analyses.
• Technology expertise: High-demand software knowledge including:
  • Advanced features of Microsoft Excel and Access
  • Enterprise resource planning applications such as Oracle, SAP and Great Plains
  • Financial planning and reporting applications
  • Industry-specific software
• Compliance: Public companies continue to need individuals who can help them fulfill U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reporting requirements. New regulations that are issued as a result of the financial crisis also may generate increased demand for professionals with the requisite compliance expertise.