Looking for a new role? Ask your boss
THE best place to start if you want to change career is with your present employer.
Lauren Luke studied catering at college and worked as a waitress before starting work as a receptionist at accountancy firm Cowgill Holloway in Bolton, Lancashire.
Lauren, 22, says: ‘I was intrigued about an accountant’s role. An audit manager suggested I spoke to one of the firm’s partners.’
After an interview with Stuart Stead, partner and head of audit and advisory, Lauren began her accountancy training and is now a junior accountant, studying part-time for her Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualifications.
Lauren says: ‘I never thought I’d become an accountant as I didn’t go to university, but the firm offered me the chance to pursue my ambitions. It can be hard but I love it and find it exciting putting into practice what I learn at college.’
Stuart Stead says: ‘It’s fantastic to see young people aspire to a career in the profession, particularly those like Lauren who didn’t consider accountancy.’
John Lees, author of How To Get A Job You Love, advises career changers: ‘Check with your employer if there are opportunities to adapt or modify your role. If not, list the ingredients in your ideal job, then seek face-to-face meetings with hirers in your target organisations.’