Overcome Artificial Intelligence in Accounting

In a world where artificial intelligence is slowly changing most industries, the accounting field is no exception. The impact that software will have on accounting firms in upcoming years aims to make processes more efficient, subsequently reducing the need for the “compliance” aspect that humans currently undertake.

Human beings are inconsistent when subject to fatigue but robots would reduce the amount of errors in collating, organising and inputting data. However, robots are inferior to human beings when explaining data results, accounting for anomalies and most importantly, building relationships. Forging relationships both internally and externally counteracts the benefits of what software can offer.

I have spoken with numerous Partners in public practice who attribute their success to their ability to communicate with people. This skill enables business leaders to manage people, delegate work and attract new clients.

Customer service in accounting is not always face to face, it includes tending to customer enquiries via phone and email. For an aspiring Accountant at university, the importance of these tasks can get overlooked. As an Accountant, you might not feel the need to worry about client care but your actions speak for your business as a whole.

When speaking to a client on the phone, taking a few extra minutes to get to know them a little better can establish a positive relationship. Knowing the “ins and outs” of their business and having a more holistic understanding of their needs will enable you to offer more insight into how to assist them. Accounting is not just numbers; interpersonal relationships are of the utmost importance in order to add value and ultimately maintain their business.

What can aspiring Accountants do to help get ahead within Professional Services?

It’s not rocket science but it does require the soft skills that make us human. To become an Accountant, any experience within an accounting firm whilst completing your studies will be hugely beneficial. This will give you an understanding of time management, meeting budgets and deadlines, and ultimately putting theory into practice. However, with customer service becoming increasingly more important within the accounting profession, any roles that give you experience of dealing with customers can also set you up for success. I have found that there is a direct correlation between a candidate’s background in customer service and their ability to converse and create rapport – retail and hospitality roles can provide you with these skills.

Your customer service skills as an aspiring Accountant will help to overcome the threat to your profession. Emotional intelligence can beat artificial intelligence.

If you are in the process of completing your studies and looking to secure a role within public practice, please get in touch to explore how we can assist you in taking your first steps into your first role. Contact us on 03 9946 7300 or support@lawsondelaney.com.au.

Lawson Delaney is a leading executive search and professional recruitment firm based in Melbourne. We specialise in recruiting CEOs and leadership teams, and accountants of all seniorities for Accounting firms.