Chances of gaining junior role in practice on part-time basis?

Chances of gaining junior role in practice on...

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Intrigued to know whether accountants would be likely to take on a mature career changer, with a qualification but little experience, on a part time basis (20-30 hrs/wk).

A little background.  I'm 46 and not able to work full time at the moment, or probably for the next 5-8 years as my 10 yr old needs me to be around before/after school.  Having completed the AAT qualification at my own expense I want to make full use of it while what I've learned is still fairly fresh.  My practical experience is limited to some cash handling/reconciling/data entry in my previous employment (which I left 18 months ago); a voluntary treasurer's role; and helping out a local bookkeeper one day per week or so (also unpaid).  I live in a large town where there is quite a lively jobs market and I've been lucky enough to have a few interviews for industry positions, though unsuccessful so far.  However I've not seen many, if any, part-time junior positions in practice come up.  I would much prefer to work in a practice - am I living in cloud cuckoo land to believe I could get a part-time position in one?  I'm thinking I would also like to study further along the tax route (ATT/CIOT) but there's little point without a job to go with it.

What are my chances?  Am I looking in the right places (mainly jobs websites, Reed etc)?  Should I contact local accountants direct?  If so is it best to email, write or phone?  Have you taken someone on (or been) in my position?  All pointers gratefully received.

Christina

Replies (5)

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By chewmac
08th Mar 2016 14:39

Good chances

I believe that good staff are difficult to come by and an employer will usually make some compromises to get them. Approach accountants direct, even those not advertising - walk in with CV and covering letter. Apply for FT jobs and explain your position when you get a chance. I have previously done similar and held both ad-hoc and regular PT roles.

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By MissAccounting
08th Mar 2016 15:11

Id echo the above post, the best staff Ive ever recruited are the ones who have shown initiative and contacted me directly via email or walked in . I dont imagine you would get past many receptionists if you phoned but they may give you an email address to send in your cv.

Like anything its a "right place, right time" but I would certainly give it a go.

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By nicstone
08th Mar 2016 17:12

Location?

Where are you based?

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By craig preece
08th Mar 2016 19:24

Just ask them, nothing to lose

You could be ideal, I'm guessing a lot of accountants have too much work for current staffing level but not enough to justify another full time employee.

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By Christina H
08th Mar 2016 19:27

Thank you chewmac and MissAccounting, your feedback is very helpful and I will get some footwork in.

nicstone, I'm in Milton Keynes

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