Checklist For Writing an Accounting Resume

With so much information out there on how to create your accounting resume, it can be exhausting just sorting through all of the technical details. To help you with this, we have put together a clear checklist covering everything you need.

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While there are many variations and individual circumstances to consider, here is a basic checklist of what you will need if you decide to write your own accounting resume. However, if you decide you need further assistance, check out our resume writing services or contact us today for more information!
 
1. Design

Choose a simple layout. Use simple lines to separate sections and consider using a page border. However, make sure to keep the design clean and clutter free so that hiring managers are quickly drawn to it. Click here for more resume design help.
 
2. Font

Select a common font. After years of creating resumes targeted for the accounting and finance industries, I recommend Arial, Times New Roman, or Georgia. Other than the heading, which should be a bit larger, keep the font size consistent throughout the resume. It is generally recommended to stay between 10.5 and 12-point font size. While these details aren’t flashy, they will convey a professional and reader-friendly resume.
 
3. Heading

Use the same font for the heading but choose a larger font size for your name such as 18 to 26-point. You can also make your name bold, however, it may not be needed with the additional size. Under your name, include your address and contact information in about 10-point. Then add a line to separate the heading from the next section.
 
4. Profile

A few lines centered beneath your heading, state your general professional title such as “Staff Accountant” or “Accounts Receivable Specialist”. On the lines below your title, briefly write an opening paragraph (4-5 sentences max) summarizing your accomplishments. Do NOT use pronouns (I, he, she, etc.). Instead use phrases like “Experienced managing a budget of $XX,XXX”.
 
5. Competencies

Following your profile paragraph, highlight one to two word specialties that you have expertise in. Use a list format and only include about 10 competencies. These may include accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, staff management, or others. End this section with a line divider similar to the one above.
 
6. Experience

List your experience in reverse chronological format starting with your current or most recent position. On the first line state the company’s name (possibly in all capital letters so that it stands out) along with the city and state. Below the company’s name, state your position title (possibly in bold font) followed by the months and years that you were in the position.

On the next line, in paragraph form, briefly summarize your daily responsibilities. Use bullet points under the paragraph and ONLY use them for special accomplishments, achievements, or special contributions that show how you would be a valuable employee. Keep the bullet list short; at most only include 4-5, as a long list will be skipped over. Repeat the process for each position that you’ve held within the last 10 years. Do not include experience dating back more than 10 years unless you need to highlight previous experience for a future career move. When completed, insert a line to separate the sections on last time.
 
7. Education & Credentials

Keeping with the same format as your experience, state the university or technical school that you attended (possibly in all capital letters) followed by the city and state. Then, on the next line, state the degree along with your major (possibly in bold font). If you graduated within the past 10 years, include the year. Otherwise, do not include the year.

If you have additional certifications, training, or other credentials, list these under your formal degrees. Consider including the training organization if applicable and the year that you received the training if it would be relevant.
 
8. Editing

Make sure to proof read your resume and ask for the opinion of others before sending it out.
 
You’re done the resume, now it’s time to start on a resume cover letter! Good luck in your job search!