Trends in Accounting in 2014

To be successful, it's important that you're always aware of any new accounting trends that could affect your career. However, with advancements in technology that are changing the way the world does business and employers looking for accountants with specialized skill sets, it's more important than ever for you to embrace some of the new accounting trends.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the future of the accounting industry is bright. If you're looking to change jobs or would like to land a job with a top firm, now is the time to start planning. It's estimated that overall the industry will see a 16 percent increase in new jobs by 2016. The availability of new jobs is thanks to the growing demand for knowledgeable accountants throughout the tax and health-care industries.

In addition to the availability of new jobs, accounting trends also affect employers' expectations of new accounting staff. For many employers, desired skill sets extend beyond traditional accounting requirements. Global companies are looking for multilingual accountants, while other companies are looking for accountants with strong legal backgrounds and interpersonal abilities. So, if you want to land the jobs of your dreams, it's time to choose an area of expertise and brush up on your soft skills.

Accounting trends aren't solely affected by new laws and company needs—advancements in technology will also play a huge role in the future of the accounting industry. According to a recent press release on MarketWatch.com, Intuit's 2013 Future of Accountancy Report indicated that clients want accountants who can give them expert advice, real-time support, and access to their financial information at anytime. The entire industry will eventually be impacted by significant shifts in the global business environment and the development of online and mobile technologies. Business owners are looking for an accountant who's capable of helping them drive their business forward, and businesses are looking for accounting firms that are adopting new technologies, allowing them to connect their accounting system with their clients' business systems. While there are numerous accounting trends that will affect the industry, this is one that you need to embrace quickly. In order to fulfill your clients' growing demands, it's important that you adopt new forms of technology, understand the best way to incorporate new technology, and can guide your clients through the process.

The future of accounting is changing drastically, making it a great time to change career paths, rewrite your long-term goals, and embrace new technologies. The faster you embrace new accounting trends, such as technology developed for accountants, and develop marketable skills, the easier it will be to build a successful career.

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