In this edition of Beyond the Numbers, Bernadette Grattan, Founder & Recruiting Director at The Resource Link, is joined by Financial Reporting Manager at Level 3 Audiovisual.
Ashley’s journey to accounting wasn’t straightforward. She explored various career paths before finding her true calling. Her advice for those starting out or considering a career change is invaluable:
“Something I tried to do wherever possible is I actually got into the field I was learning about in school or in classes just to try to actually see what the day to day looked like.”
This hands-on approach helped Ashley discover her passion for accounting. She emphasizes the importance of real-world experience:
“Seeing the job in its true form versus learning from a teacher are definitely just very important. And you may realize that a job’s not a good fit for you on your first day of shadowing someone in the actual position you are looking to obtain.”
Ashley stresses the importance of networking, especially for introverts like herself:
“On social media platforms, just connect, connect, connect. […] The more people you know, the more likely you have an end to your dream job. And whether that be direct or indirect, it will be helpful in your career advancement.”
She encourages professionals to connect with people from various backgrounds, as you never know how these connections might benefit your career in the future. This means connecting with everyone from college jobs to students in your class, your TA, and your professor.
When asked about her passion for accounting, Ashley’s enthusiasm shines through:
“I have always loved money. I know that sounds funny because I’m sure everybody loves money to some extent. But I mean, I love the idea of accounting for money. I love knowing where money goes and forecasting for the future and categorizing expenses.”
She finds joy in the structured environment that accounting provides and the intellectual challenges it presents:
“I enjoy the intellectual challenge of breaking down financial puzzles and providing solutions. I often refer to myself as a numbers detective.”
Ashley emphasizes the importance of Excel proficiency in accounting. She highlights key skills that aspiring accountants should focus on:
She notes, “Pivot Tables and VLOOKUP are the two that I stress the most when we’re interviewing candidates for any position within our department.”
Ashley encourages professionals to take initiative in their career development:
“Don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel like you want to take on something else and you want to learn something. It’s always good to talk to your manager if you want to learn something new.”
She emphasizes that it’s okay for staff or senior accountants to approach their managers about career development opportunities, as long as they have realistic expectations.
About Ashley Steffen: With a B.S. in Accounting from Arizona State University and an extensive career in accounting and financial management, Ashley Steffen has demonstrated progression in roles across various organizations and within her current company. Ashley has been an advocate for her career progression.
Career Progression:
Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/ashley-steffen-a0097754
ABOUT Bernadette Grattan: Bernadette Grattan is the Founder and Accounting & Finance Recruiting Director of The Resource Link, Inc., a specialty search firm she started in 2002. Bernadette takes a personalized approach to understanding the hiring manager and job seeker’s needs. This enables her to make long-term placements in accounting, finance, and executive roles. The Resource Link distinguishes itself through high-touch customer service, candid insights, and ensuring an excellent match by connecting top talent with companies aligned with their career passions.
If you are looking to hire or considering what is next, learn more at theresourcelink.com or linkedin.com/in/bernadettegrattan
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