Five Tips for Making a Great First Impression

In the competitive world of accountancy and finance, making a strong first impression is crucial. Whether through your CV or during an interview, those first few moments can significantly influence the outcome of your job application. As accounting and finance recruitment specialists, we have reviewed thousands of CVs and helped countless professionals land their dream roles. Drawing on this experience, I’d like to share five tips to help you make a lasting, positive impression.

1. Tailor Your CV to Each Application

Sending out generic CVs won’t get you far in today’s market. Each role requires a tailored approach. Take the time to understand the organisation’s core values and mission. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs. Customising your CV not only helps you stand out but also demonstrates that you’ve researched the position and are truly interested in it.

2. Showcase Specific Achievements

Instead of simply listing job responsibilities, focus on specific achievements. Use quantifiable examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully used your skills in real-world scenarios. Employers want to see tangible evidence of your abilities, so don’t save the best for last—make sure your key accomplishments are easy to find.

3. Highlight Soft Skills

In senior accountancy roles, technical expertise is often a given, so it’s critical to showcase your soft skills too. In today’s dynamic environment, qualities like resilience, emotional intelligence, leadership, and problem-solving are highly prized. Employers want team players who can communicate effectively and lead with empathy, particularly when navigating change or challenging situations.

4. Demonstrate Adaptability

The finance industry is rapidly evolving, and employers want agile candidates. Whether embracing new technology, staying updated on regulatory changes, or mastering new processes, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re proactive about continuous learning and personal development.

5. Maintain a Professional Online Presence

Your social media profiles can make or break your chances of securing a role. While LinkedIn is the obvious platform for showcasing your professional persona, don’t forget to audit your other social media accounts. Employers often check X, Facebook, and even Instagram to get a fuller picture of candidates. Ensure these platforms reflect a professional image or consider tightening your privacy settings to avoid potential red flags.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to leaving a strong, positive impression on potential employers.

For tailored advice or recruitment support in the accounting and finance sector, contact Fletcher George Recruitment. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Darran Crellin
Director, Fletcher George Financial Recruitment