What does a General Accountant do?
Published 3 min read
A general accountant is responsible for maintaining and reconciling financial records. They may also be responsible for preparing financial reports, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, and performing audits.
General Accountant job duties include:
- Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts
- Prepare and file monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
- Assist with budget preparation and forecasting
- Perform month-end closing procedures
- Analyze financial data and prepare reports to support decision making
- Identify and correct errors in financial records
- Recommend improvements to accounting systems and processes
- Train and mentor junior accounting staff
- Assist auditors with financial statement audits
General Accountant Job Requirements
A general accountant typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Some employers may require certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification. Generally, accountants need at least two years of experience to be considered for a position.
General Accountant Skills
- Analytical skills
- Profit and loss
- Financial analysis
- Auditing
- Budgeting
- Cost accounting
- Forecasting
- Income tax
- Payroll
- Accounts payable/receivable
- General ledger
Related: Top General Accountant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a General Accountant
A general accountant is an important figure in any business or organization. They are responsible for the financial health of the company and play a vital role in decision-making. If you are interested in becoming a general accountant, here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you will need to have strong math skills. This is essential in accounting and you will be doing a lot of calculations. You should also be able to use accounting software programs and be comfortable working with numbers.
Second, you need to be detail oriented and organized. This job requires a lot of paperwork and you need to be able to keep track of all the details. You should also be able to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
Third, you need to have good communication skills. You will be working with different departments within the company and need to be able to relay information clearly. You should also be able to explain financial reports and data to non-accountants.
Fourth, you need to be able to work independently. This job requires a lot of self-motivation and discipline. You should be able to stay on task and meet goals without constant supervision.
If you have these qualities, then you may have what it takes to become a successful general accountant. It is important to note that this career requires continuous learning, so you should be prepared to keep up with new developments in accounting theory and practice.
Related: General Accountant Resume Example
Related: General Accountant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)