After years of exams, late nights, and audit seasons, you’ve finally qualified as an accountant. But now comes a new challenge—landing your first industry role. Suddenly, you’re competing with dozens of other newly qualified accountants (NQAs), all eager to secure the best positions.
For many, this is your first time applying for jobs since university, and the process can feel overwhelming. It’s no surprise that common mistakes come up in applications, CVs, and interviews—often without realising it. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, here are the most common job search mistakes we see—and how to fix them.
1. Not getting your CV right from the start
Your CV is your first impression, and many newly qualified accountants make simple yet costly mistakes that can prevent them from getting noticed. Formatting issues, lack of clarity, and failing to highlight key client experience can mean your application blends in rather than stands out.
How to fix it:
- Use a clear, professional format – Stick to a clean, structured layout with consistent font styles (Arial or Calibri, size 10-12). Avoid excessive bolding, colours, or graphics that can clutter your CV.
- Keep it concise – Aim for a maximum of two pages, with relevant experience listed in clear bullet points. Hiring managers scan CVs quickly, so make yours easy to read.
- Highlight key client experience – If you’ve worked with well-known companies or industries (e.g., financial services, tech, retail), mention them by name (where confidentiality allows). This immediately adds credibility.
- Structure your CV properly – Use distinct sections for:
- Professional Summary (2–3 lines summarizing your experience)
- Key Skills & Technical Expertise
- Work Experience (with emphasis on key achievements, not just responsibilities)
- Education & Qualifications (ACA/ACCA/CIMA etc.)
💡 Tip: Ensure your CV is ATS-friendly (Applicant Tracking System), meaning it should be in a standard Word or PDF format, free from tables, images, or complex formatting that could affect readability. 👉 Want a CV template that’s designed for newly qualified accountants? Download our CV guide here.
2. Applying for too many jobs without a clear strategy
Some newly qualified accountants apply for every available job, thinking it increases their chances. In reality, this approach can lead to rushed applications and applying for roles that might not align with long-term career goals.
How to fix it:
- Be strategic – Focus on companies and roles that fit your skills, interests, and career progression goals.
- Tailor each application – Use keywords from job descriptions and adapt your CV for different roles.
- Keep track of applications – A simple spreadsheet helps monitor responses and follow up where necessary.
💡 Tip: Look beyond job titles. The same title (e.g., Financial Analyst) can mean very different responsibilities across companies—always read the job description carefully! Check out our blog post here that discusses this in more detail.
3. Not demonstrating commercial awareness in interviews
Employers in industry expect accountants to think beyond numbers and demonstrate how finance supports business decisions. Many newly qualified accountants struggle to answer questions about stakeholder management, business performance, and financial strategy.
How to fix it:
- Be prepared for questions on key financial metrics, budgeting, and profitability drivers.
- Research the company’s financial statements, competitors, and market trends before your interview.
- Practice explaining financial data in simple terms—many industry roles require presenting insights to non-finance teams.
💡 Example:
If you’re applying for a Financial Analyst role in a retail company, understanding gross margin trends and supply chain costs will make you a stronger candidate. Instead of just discussing financial compliance, show that you can translate numbers into business insights—like how inventory turnover impacts cash flow or how seasonal demand affects profitability.
💡 Tip: If an interviewer asks, “How would you assess a company’s financial health?”, make sure you can confidently discuss key financial ratios, trends, and commercial factors—not just compliance issues.
4. Failing to highlight soft skills & stakeholder engagement
It can be easy to focus on your technical skills at interview, but don’t forget that industry roles require communication, teamwork, and influencing abilities.
How to fix it:
- Showcase business partnering experience – Even in audit, you worked with finance teams and advised clients.
- Mention any interactions with with Financial Controllers or finance managers in your previous work.
- Be prepared for interview questions like, “Tell me about a time you had to explain financial information to a non-finance person.”
💡 Tip: Strong stakeholder management skills can set you apart—hiring managers want accountants who can influence business decisions, not just report numbers.
5. Not researching the current market rates or negotiating offers
Salary negotiation can play a part in the process (in some situations). Understanding market rates is important.
How to fix it:
- Research market salaries for newly qualified accountants your industry and location—For the most up to date info check out the Lincoln Salary Survey report here.
- Be prepared to discuss salary expectations when speaking with recruiters and hiring managers. No need to worry about these conversations if you are working with a recruiter, we can set expectations and manage salary negotiations on your behalf.
- Consider the full package—bonuses, benefits, and career growth opportunities can be just as important as base salary.
💡 Tip: A specialist recruiter can help you understand fair compensation, navigate salary negotiations, and secure the best overall package—not just the highest number on paper.
6. Maximising your opportunities with the right recruiter
Many newly qualified accountants, especially those from large accountancy firms, receive an onslaught of recruiter messages just before and after qualifying. While this can make job-hunting seem easy, it’s important to ensure you’re making the right move for you and your career.
How to Fix It:
- Be proactive in engaging with specialist recruiters – Work with those who understand finance careers, rather than responding to generic LinkedIn messages from non-specialist recruiters.
- Clearly communicate your career goals – The best recruiters will help you find a role that aligns with your long-term ambitions, not just a quick placement.
- Optimise your LinkedIn profile – The right recruiters will be able to find you if your profile highlights your transferable skills, career ambitions, and relevant experience.
💡 Tip: A great recruiter does more than just send job offers—they act as a career advisor, providing market insights, salary benchmarks, and strategic advice on your long-term career path. Build a relationship with a recruiter who understands your goals and can help you navigate the transition into industry successfully.
Final Thoughts
The job market for newly qualified accountants is strong but also competitive. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll stand out as a top candidate:
- Reframe your CV to highlight financial analysis, commercial awareness, and stakeholder engagement.
- Be strategic in job applications—focus on quality over quantity.
- Prepare for industry interviews by researching financial performance and business trends.
- Work with a specialist recruiter who understands your career goals and can provide tailored opportunities and strategic career advice.
- Research salary benchmarks and don’t be afraid to negotiate for the right package.
💡 Not sure where to start?
Reach out to our Accountancy & Finance team for a confidential career consultation. Whether you need help refining your CV, preparing for interviews, or negotiating your first industry salary, we’d be happy to support you through your next career move.
