CPA2b Fall 2016

FALL 2016 | VOL. 12, NO. 1

Focus on

Plus...

Fraud 4

Pictured, from left: Tracy Coenen, CPA, CFF; Jodi Gissel, CPA, CFE; Yuli Pang

CAREER SPOTLIGHT START YOUR JOB SEARCH HERE! NEW CPA EXAM TESTS HIGHER-ORDER SKILLS

MENTORING 101

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page 20

[PAGE 40 & INSIDE BACK COVER]

EXCEL TIPS & TRICKS page800-772-6939 32

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Whether you’re looking for a new career or a new employee, the WICPA’s Career Center can help you make the most of your search.

Sign in today to post your resume or job and find useful resources to help you with your search.

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FIND A JOB POST A JOB

Fall 2016 | Vol. 12, No. 1 A publication of the WICPA Educational Foundation, Inc. | wicpa.org

Table of Contents 4 b recognized | student profile Focus on fraud Marquette University accounting student Yuli Pang obtains real-world accounting experience through the Justice for Fraud Victims project.

By Donna Pinsoneault

features 10 b prepared | CPA Exam

30 b hired | resumes Develop a resume that gets you noticed When crafting your resume, highlight your transferrable skills, leadership qualities and extracurricular activities.

By Kari Nichols

New CPA Exam to test higher-order skills The next version of the CPA Exam will take effect April 1, 2017, and represent the first major changes to the exam since 2011.

By Michael D. Akers, CPA, CBM, CFE, CGMA, CIA, CMA, Ph.D.

16 b hired | jobs forecast

32 b tech savvy | Excel Learn two all-time top Excel tips Take your Excel productivity to a new level by learning both Precision as Displayed and Flash Fill features.

By Val Steed, CPA, CITP

Landing entry-level accounting and finance jobs The hiring outlook is bright for recent accounting and finance grads.

By Robert Half

20 b versatile | mentoring

36 b strategic | career planning

How to find a mentor and why you need one (or more) One of the best ways to support your work life, boost your job search, or navigate your career path is to work with a mentor.

By Gina C. Skibo, CPA

Destination CPA Three CPAs share how they got their start in the profession, the resources that helped them along the way and misconceptions they had about being a CPA.

By Amy Gaeth

22 b rewarded | scholarship spotlight Opportunity knocks Explore the diverse career goals of one Big 4 CPA, which includes becoming a CFO of a Wisconsin company and serving as an accounting professor.

By Matthew Westphal, CPA

26 b educated | skill development Leadership lessons Learn valuable tips on how to lead in a dynamic profession.

By Renee R. Bardenwerper, CPA

departments 3

b in the know | member benefits

9 b affiliated | welcome new members 15 b educated | conferences BC b prepared | job search tips

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2014 Apex Award for

MOST IMPROVED MAGAZINE

2014

Association Trends Bronze Award for

MOST IMPROVED MAGAZINE

2016-2017 WICPA Educational Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors: President Renee M. Johnson, CPA Secretary/Treasurer Michael E. Friedman, CPA, J.D. Director Christopher M. Cholka, CPA Director Dorothy Conduah, CPA Director Elizabeth Hazi, CPA Director Kevin M. Heil, CPA, CGMA Director John R. Heindel, CPA Director Diana L. Henke, CPA Director Darci L. Middaugh, CPA Director Roberta Ward, CPA Director Randall J. Wichinski, CPA, MBA Director Boula Xiong Editorial Team: Editor & Vice President of Communications Amy E. Gaeth – amy@wicpa.org Design & Layout Brett Stallman – brett@wicpa.org Advertising Manager Ellen Engel – ellen@wicpa.org Copy Editor Joan Bahr

ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIPS

Receive $2,500

in scholarship money!

Apply online at wicpa.org/efscholarships through Feb. 24, 2017.

Applications will be accepted through Feb. 24, 2017. Scholarships are awarded from the WICPA Educational Foundation to qualified accounting students in their last year of the 150-hour requirement to apply for a Wisconsin CPA license.

Printing Special Editions CPA2b is a biannual publication of the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Change of address should be sent to: Membership, W233N2080 Ridgeview Parkway, Suite 201, Waukesha, WI 53188; Phone: 262-785-0445; Fax: 262-785-0838; email: jessica@wicpa.org. Statements or opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the WICPA. Publication of an advertisement does not constitute an endorsement of a product or service by CPA2b or the WICPA.

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Articles may be reproduced with permission. © Copyright 2016 CPA2b.

in the know | member benefits

7 ways to kick-start your career

By Carol Rybak It’s an exciting time to be a WICPA student member!

Pursuing a profession that’s in great demand puts you in the driver’s seat of your career. With more demand comes greater job security, higher earning potential and increased opportunities for your future.

As a WICPA member, you join a network of 7,700 likeminded individuals, all of whom are focused on success in the accounting profession. Another benefit is you meet influential decision-makers who can enhance your career through job referrals, mentorships and business opportunities. You also have access to information to develop both technical and soft skills. C-level executives and firm partners say developing soft skills is essential for career advancement. Members often describe their WICPA involvement as “priceless” because of these benefits, along with the fact you gain instant credibility as a WICPA member.

What’s more, here are seven ways to enhance your career through membership: 1. Networking – Develop contacts that represent more than 2,500 organizations in public accounting, business and industry, government, education and nonprofits.

2. Events – Attend young professional Mix & Mingle events in the Madison, Fox Valley and Milwaukee areas for $30.

The Member Recognition Banquet & Annual Business Meeting held each May is free for all members. Student members can also attend WICPA conferences at the member rate of only $30.

3. Marketability – Stand out among potential employers by demonstrating your commitment to the profession.

Employers say that having the WICPA on your resume sets you apart and increases your chances of landing an internship or job.

4. Industry news – Stay up-to-date on hot topics, issues and trends to enhance your skills and knowledge through WICPA publications and e-news.

5. Savings – Save up to $300 on CPA review courses from partners, including Becker, Roger CPA Review, Wiley CPAexcel and Gleim CPA Review.

6. Online resources – Access member contact information through the Membership Directory, and search for jobs or post your resume through the Career Center.

7. Scholarships – Fourth-year accounting students are eligible to receive scholarships for their fifth year of study through the WICPA Educational Foundation. Last year the foundation granted more than $47,500 to college students.

Applications are now being accepted through Feb. 24, 2017, at wicpa.org/efscholarships.

Being involved in the WICPA gives you a competitive edge. Take advantage of all that membership has to offer, and you will be on the fast track to a successful career.

Carol Rybak is the Membership Development Coordinator at the WICPA. Contact her at 262-785-0445 ext. 4511 or carol@wicpa.org.

Want access to these valuable member benefits?

Visit wicpa.org/join.

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Marquette University Accounting Student Yuli Pang grows her communication and leadership skills serving as a PwC intern and Beta Alpha Psi officer.

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

Photos by Adam Ryan Morris

recognized | student profile

Focus on

By Donna Pinsoneault

Fraud

H

mmm…That simple sound turned out to be the key. Three Marquette University (MU) students used it over and over to discover secrets in a real-world fraud case. Working with the Milwaukee Police Department, MU assistant professor Jodi Gissel, CPA, CFE and fraud investigator Tracy Coenen, CPA, CFF, students took on the challenge in an independent study course.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” said Yuli Pang, who completed an internship with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), served as an officer with Beta Alpha Psi and will graduate in 2017 with a Master of Science in Administration. “I always thought in a real case, the fraud would be obvious.

You would just find it and the perpetrator would be caught.”

Pang grew up in Suzhou, China. Her mother is an accountant, and her father is an auditor, so accounting conversations were common in her household.

Students discovered, however, that finding fraud isn’t easy.

“You don’t do it by thinking about things the right way,” Pang said. “You have to think the wrong way, the way someone would think if they didn’t want to be found out.”

“You have to think the wrong way, the way someone would think if they didn’t want to be found out.”

“When I was little, my dad would share the coolest stories,” she said. “I was able to meet all of these businesspeople and I thought, ‘Wow, accounting is so cool!’”

— Yuli Pang

Inspired by the Justice for Fraud Victims Project at Gonzaga University, MU professors partnered with local law enforcement and fraud examiners to select an appropriate case for students to work on.

“The case originated with a detective who investigates financial crimes,” Coenen said.

“They chose a case that was likely to have merit but also likely to involve working with considerable data.”

The team, which also included MU students Jennifer (Yayu) Liu and Anthony Frigo, launched their investigation with two site visits to learn how the business was run. They completed a mock “victim” interview with Coenen, then came up with some hypotheses and an investigation plan.

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recognized | student profile

Marquette University accounting student Yuli Pang collaborates with fraud investigator Tracy Coenen, CPA, CFF and MU assistant professor Jodi Gissel, CPA, CFE.

“Once we had a plan, we spent a lot of time discussing what documents to request,” Pang said.

“We got the real data from 2008-2015 – thousands of transactions. It was really hard to tell what was important. We kept looking at the data and saying … hmmm … how did they do it?”

Coenen especially encouraged them to avoid confirmation bias.

Coenen, of Sequence Inc. Forensic Accounting, mentored students throughout their investigation while maintaining official responsibility for the case as it proceeded through the criminal justice system.

She encouraged the team to keep wrestling with the questions, to think about what didn’t look right and what one wouldn’t expect in the transactions. A MU grad who frequently speaks to accounting classes about fraud examination, she met with the team weekly, challenging them to talk through various paths they could take in the investigation.

“Finally, after many more weeks of struggle, hmmm…we spotted something that didn’t look right.”

Pang said. “Hmmm … we looked deeper. Yes! This was definitely not right. We were so excited! It was a really satisfying feeling, after all that hard work, to discover what the fraud was.”

“It requires significant work,” she said. “Every case is different. When students get stuck, I encourage them to apply critical thinking to all the possibilities.”

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

“We all have a tendency to find proof of what we think the solution should be instead of looking at the evidence objectively,” she said.

The advice paid off.

The team still had to figure out the accurate amount of the fraud and complete an extensive report. More meetings, more hmmms and more work with numbers. When the work was accomplished, students presented their findings to faculty, law enforcement, prosecutors and the business owner.

“That felt great!” Pang said. “We had found the problem, and we knew the method. We offered

“We all have a tendency to find proof of what we think the solution should be instead of looking at the evidence objectively.” — Tracy Coenen recommendations to the business for preventing fraud. We practiced our presentation so many times, we could answer whatever questions they asked.”

The experience benefited stakeholders across the board.

“Law enforcement reduced the amount of time it needed to review data,” Pang said. “The business owner and prosecutors benefited. We got real-life experience. It was a win-win for everyone.”

Gissel, who teamed with police and the district attorney to get the program up and running, pointed to the course’s contribution to the university’s core mission.

“It’s rewarding to work with people in the community,” she said. “I’m thankful that we can assist businesses with limited resources or little experience in dealing with fraud. Not only can we help them identify their current problems, we can help them prevent problems in the future.”

Marquette plans to expand the course to include two student teams working on separate investigations.

“It’s worth the effort to get in there, learn on the job, gain experience from the real thing,” Coenen said.

Pang will officially begin her career in public accounting with PwC in 2017. Despite the work involved, she encourages other students to take on a real fraud case.

“I believe it’s important to learn about different things, to try different things,” she said. “If an opportunity is in front of you, take it. Even if you already have a lot to do, you won’t regret it.”

Donna Pinsoneault is a freelance writer. Contact her at dpinsoneault@gmail.com.

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recognized | student profile

YULI’S Fun Facts I WANT TO BE A CPA BECAUSE… it is an indicator that all of my hard work pays off.

PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THIS, BUT… I used to have a pet squirrel when I was little.

MY ADVICE TO ASPIRING ACCOUNTING MAJORS IS… get out of your comfort zone and try new things often.

I NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT… my phone.

IN MY SPARE TIME, I ENJOY… shopping, walking by the Lake Michigan and kickboxing.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT… getting healthy.

MY FAVORITE BOOK OR MOVIE IS… "Harry Potter."

WICPA

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NOMINATE AN EDUCATOR FOR A WICPA EXCELLENCE AWARD Consider nominating your high school or college accounting educator who is: • An exceptional educator • A mentor • Someone who sparked your interest in accounting

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

Show your appreciation by submitting your nomination at wicpa.org/awards now through Nov. 11, 2016.

The Educator Excellence Award recipient will be announced in December and honored at the Member Recognition Banquet & Annual Business Meeting on May 4, 2017 at the Harley-Davidson Museum® in Milwaukee.

affiliated | WICPA membership

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Sara Bacon, Inge Alverson Bacon CPA Keith Baerwald, UW-Platteville Kyle Baldwin, UW-Oshkosh Molly Bannan, UW-Whitewater Betsy Barnard, Colorado State University Douglass Bartley, UW-Milwaukee Paris D. Beckham, Bryant and Stratton College Amber Beistle, UW-Oshkosh Kiefer Bennett, UW-Whitewater Cassandra Beyer, UW-Whitewater Muhammad Bilal Ayub, UW-Milwaukee Carolyn Bilton, UW-Whitewater Cody J. Blaser, UW-Milwaukee Todd Blatnik, UW-Milwaukee David W. Bramel, UW-Milwaukee Bobb Brenner Bobbi Briggs, UW-Whitewater Ryan Broedlow, UW-Whitewater Matthew Buda, Delzer Lithograph Co. Brendan Buhler Louise Bushman, Marquette University Jody Butzen, Reilly, Penner & Benton LLP Thomas A. Carini, Grace College Nicole Cerda, UW-Milwaukee DeAnte Cook, UW-Whitewater Alyssa Durall, UW-Whitewater Christopher Edmundson, UW-Whitewater Adrian Ellis, UW-Oshkosh Diana L. Enciso, UW-Oshkosh

Hassan Ennin, MATC Tyler Fenner, UW-Green Bay Roren Finney, UW-Rock County Andrew Gardner, UW-Whitewater Jared Gendron, UW-La Crosse Alex Giuliani, UW-Milwaukee James T. Graham Lauren Hageman, UW-Whitewater Abass Hassan, MATC Wyatt Heckel, UW-Whitewater Justin T. Henry, UW-Whitewater Amy Hintz, UW-Oshkosh Christopher Holdway Christian J. Janssen, UW-Whitewater Nathaniel J. Karls, BBA Madi Klawitter, Gateway Technical College Carrie Lane, UW-Oshkosh Kristy M. Leutermann, MBA, UW-Milwaukee Nicole Lickteig, UW-Milwaukee Brianna Lindow, St. Norbert College Daniel Loderbauer, UW-Whitewater Lucille Loessin, UW-Madison Leah Manteufel, UW-Whitewater James Martinez, Marquette University Alex Mentzel Devon Mertins, UW-Milwaukee Lauren Michelz, UW-Milwaukee Brett Muzzy, UW-Parkside Alexandra Nelson, UW-Oshkosh

Allie Nelson, UW-Oshkosh Mason Nindl, Carroll University Angela M. Nordskog, Lakeland University Jenifer Ostergaard, UW-Whitewater Katelyn Otradovec, Concordia University Jeff Owens, UW-Milwaukee Kirsten Pamperin, UW-Oshkosh Randy Patrick, UW-Whitewater Anne Platteter, St. Norbert College Chrys Racinowski, Carroll University Nathan Rehmer, UW-Oshkosh Adela Rivera, Edgewood College Mathew J. Rivers, UW-Whitewater Luke Rogness, UW-Milwaukee Benjamin Schroer Angela Schumacher Dalia Shawar, UW-Milwaukee Austin Sinden, UW-Whitewater Nathan Smith, UW-Whitewater Kaitlyn Stielow Aaron M. Sundstrom, Concordia University Aaron W. Toll, Marian University Aaron Turner, UW-Whitewater Jordan Varish, UW-Milwaukee Nicholas P. Wiegert, UW-Parkside Robyn Wiemer, CMA, Winona State University Catherine Willkomm, UW-Milwaukee Adam Wolff, Concordia University

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prepared | CPA Exam

mind ANALYSIS SKILLS

skills

learn

SIMULATIONS

think

brain relevant

New CPA Exam

NEWLY LICENSED

to test higher-order skills 10

CPA2b | wicpa.org

By Michael D. Akers, CPA, CBM, CFE, CGMA, CIA, CMA, Ph.D.

T

he next version of the Uniform CPA Examination will take effect April 1, 2017 (Q2 testing period), and represents the first major changes to the exam since 2011. This article will provide an overview of those changes.

Why is the exam changing?

To protect the public interest, the CPA Exam is designed to provide assurance that newly licensed CPAs have the appropriate technical knowledge and skills to complete the tasks they will encounter. Periodically the AICPA conducts practice analysis to determine that the CPA Exam is testing the appropriate knowledge and skills. Analysis, which began in 2014, found that as business and the accounting profession continues to evolve the exam needed to be modified. The exam, which historically has tested remembering, understanding and application skills, is being modified to test higher-order cognitive skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical ability and professional skepticism.

What are the sections of the new exam and testing time allowed?

The exam will retain its four existing sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Testing time for each section is four hours. The new exam increases the length of the testing time from 14 to 16 hours as both BEC and REG increased by one hour.

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prepared | CPA Exam

What are the skills tested?

The AICPA provides a blueprint for the skills tested in each section, which are linked to tasks representative of work performed by newly licensed CPAs. The table below shows the skills tested by each section: Section

Remembering and Understanding

Application

Analysis

Evaluation

AUD

30-40%

30-40%

15-25%

5-15%

BEC

15-25%

50-60%*

20-30%

FAR

10-20%

50-60%

25-35%

REG

25-35%

35-45%

25-35%

*Includes written communication

What are the testing items and the distribution of items by section?

Multiple-choice questions (MCQ) and task-based simulations (TBS), including Document Review Simulations (DRS) will be used in all four sections. BEC will also include three written responses.

AUD, FAR and REG will be approximately 50 percent MCQ and 50 percent TBS as compared to the current exam that is weighted 60 percent MCQ and 40 percent TBS. BEC will be approximately 50 percent MCQ, 35 percent TBS and 15 percent written response as compared to the current exam that’s weighted 85 percent MCQ and 15 percent written. Beginning with the 2016 Q3 testing window (July 1, 2016), the AUD, FAR and REG sections will use a new simulation item known as the Document Review Simulation and each of these sections will continue to use the DRS with the new exam. DRS will be added to BEC with the new exam. A CPA is required to analyze, interpret, review and prepare documents. DRS will provide candidates with a document that they will be required to review and edit. Candidates will also examine other documents, such as contracts, emails and invoices, as part of the analyses. The following table compares the distribution of the items on the current and new exam.

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MultipleChoice Question

MultipleChoice Question

Task-Based Simulations

Task-Based Simulations

Written Communication

Written Communication

Section

Current Exam

New Exam

Current Exam

New Exam

Current Exam

New Exam

AUD

90

72

7

9

N/A

N/A

BEC

72

62

0

5

3

3

FAR

90

66

7

9

N/A

N/A

REG

72

76

6

9

N/A

N/A

CPA2b | wicpa.org

With the exception of REG, the number of MCQ decrease. TBS increase for each section. Each section will have five testlets. AUD, FAR and REG will have two MCQ testlets and three TBS testlets.

BEC will have two MCQ testlets, two TBS testlets and one testlet for the three written responses.

Since the tasks of a newly licensed CPA require knowledge that pertains to all four sections, the 2017 exam will incorporate greater integration across sections. For example, in the AUD section, a TBS designed to evaluate the audit procedures to assess the fair value of a financial instrument would include valuation concepts that would be tested more thoroughly in FAR. Is there additional testing time during the year?

With the exception of 2017, Q2 when the new exam launches, beginning with April 1, 2016, each quarter's window is expanded by 10 days into what has been considered dark months.

Are breaks allowed during the exam?

Approximately midway through each section, candidates will be offered a 15-minute break that may be used or declined. This break does NOT count toward the testing time. Consistent with the current exam candidates may take optional breaks between testlets that DO count toward testing time.

Is there an additional cost?

Fees charged by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants will remain the same. Prometric’s hourly fees will remain the same; however, fees will increase slightly because the length of the exam is increasing.

How soon will I receive my scores?

The table below shows the dates the scores will be released. It’s expected that by Q1 of 2018 the existing average 20-day rolling score release timeline will resume.

Test Window

AICPA/Board of Examiners Review Exam Performance Data/ Standard Setting

Approximate Release Date of Candidate Scores

2017 Q2 April 3-May 31, 2017

10 weeks

Aug. 14

2017 Q3 July 1-Sept. 10, 2017

10 days

Sept. 20

2017 Q4 Oct. 1-Dec. 10, 2017

10 days

Dec. 22

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prepared | CPA Exam

Will candidates receive credit for sections passed on the current exam after the new exam becomes effective?

Yes, candidates will receive credit for sections completed prior to the launch of the new exam, subject to the 18 month rule.

For more details on the new exam, please see the AICPA webpage at http://aicpa.org/ Become-ACPA/CPAExam/nextexam.

Michael D. Akers, CPA, CBM, CFE, CGMA, CIA, CMA, Ph.D. is accounting department chair and professor at Marquette University in Milwaukee. Contact him at 414-288-1453 or michael.akers@marquette.edu.

Wisconsin accounting grad among nation’s top CPA Exam performers The path to passing the Uniform CPA Examination can be arduous. But thanks to dedication and hard work, Wisconsin CPA examinee Lacey M. Puls was up for the task, and she earned the top honor for her performance.

Puls was among 75 CPA Exam candidates nationwide who have received the 2015 Elijah Watt Sells Award. Puls, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a Bachelor of Business Administration in

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Accounting and a Master of Professional Accountancy, is employed with Smith & Gesteland LLP in Middleton.

The award is presented by the AICPA to candidates who earn a cumulative average score above 95.50 across all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination.

More than 93,000 individuals from across the U.S. sat for the CPA Exam in 2015. To receive the distinguished Sells Award, candidates must pass each section on their first attempt.

The Sells Award was created by the AICPA in 1923 to honor Elijah Watt Sells, CPA, founding partner in Haskins & Sells, a predecessor to Deloitte & Touche, and one of the first CPAs in the U.S.

educated | conferences

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hired | jobs forecast

Landing entry-level accounting and finance jobs

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

By Robert Half The hiring outlook is bright for recent accounting and finance grads. The 2017 Robert Half Salary Guide for Accounting and Finance confirms there’s a great need for innovative, entrepreneurial, entry-level accounting and finance professionals. Firms seek new blood both to complement the skills of existing bookkeepers and payroll professionals and to groom the next generation of controllers and CFOs. Some students may have already begun to pave the road toward their first job by using their college or university’s career center or alumni association.

Others may have formed a mentor relationship with a professor or instructor, or developed leads through an undergraduate internship — all excellent ways of building a professional network, developing skill sets and improving marketability.

As you peruse the available job opportunities, consider your career goals. You’ll want to think about how to set yourself apart from your entrylevel accounting and finance peers, while you’re grabbing the hiring manager’s attention. A proven method for getting your foot in the door is working with a recruiter that specializes in placing new accounting graduates with great employers.

Here are five tips for landing your first accounting and finance job: 1. Work with a recruiter.

Consider enlisting a professional staffing firm such as Robert Half, which has with a decades-long record of placing both entry-level and seasoned professionals with accounting firms, businesses and nonprofits — small and large. What you’ll gain from the experience is a trusted ally in your job search and a relationship with a team of recruiters who know your resume, have deep connections in the finance and accounting industry, and can pair you with companies where your experience and qualities will shine.

2. Further your education or attain certifications.

Another sure-fire way to increase your workplace value is to get certified in one or more of the top accounting and finance credentials. You may have already found through your job search that many of the in-demand positions — whether they be in financial planning, payroll, taxes or auditing — require one or more certifications. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation continues to rank No. 1. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is often necessary for higher-level roles.

Other sought-after certifications include Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designations. By committing yourself to continuing education and professional training, you also position yourself for a higher salary.

3. Take on part-time or project work.

Having trouble finding a full-time position, or you’re unable to commit to a 40-hour workweek due to studies or other obligations? Consider a temporary job placement, which will strengthen your skills and put you shoulder-to-shoulder with experienced accounting professionals who may know of job openings perfect for you. Trying a parttime gig as a first career step is also a good way to feel out a company, its values and whether it would a good match for the long term.

4. Volunteer.

Not only will volunteering benefit your community, it’ll also place you in good company.

Robert Half’s recent Generation Z report revealed that the 18-to-25-year-old cohort possess a broad streak of altruism. Young professionals surveyed by Robert Half, and its research partner Enactus, said they would take a pay cut to work for a firm that supports causes near and dear to their hearts. What better way to learn a nonprofit’s operations than by helping it with financial advising, setting up a

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hired | jobs forecast

bookkeeping system, or a financial literacy initiative?

It’s another way of networking and meeting the movers and shakers in your community and industry.

5. Join a professional organization.

Networking is key to success for financial staffing professionals. Rubbing elbows at workshops and conferences connects you to hiring managers and thought leaders in your field. It also allows you to pursue continuing education opportunities and explore various avenues in your career. At many professional accounting and finance organizations, membership benefits also include discounts on certification coursework and conference fees.

“The MS-Accountancy Program at Edgewood College is excellent.

My involvement in the Accounting Club helped me make connections with area accounting firms which led to several successful interviews and a job offer. My education has given me the confidence to succeed in my new position. Edgewood College was the perfect fit for me.” Chelsea Blum, MSA

Available online or in the classroom.

Visit connect.edgewood.edu, call 608.663.4177, or email gps@edgewood.edu today.

Apply free! Use the fee waiver code 262.

Madison, WI The School of Business at Edgewood College is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Edgewood College has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a “Best National University,” among “America’s Best Colleges” by Forbes, and a “Best in the Midwest College” by Princeton Review.

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

By offering these tips, hopefully we’ve helped demystify entry-level accounting and finance jobs and how to find them. Our goal is to give you some useful tools to keep handy as you begin your career and hone in on your specialty.

This article is provided courtesy of Robert Half, parent company of Accountemps, Robert Half Finance & Accounting and Robert Half Management Resources. Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized staffing firm placing accounting and finance professionals on a temporary, full-time and project basis. For career and management advice, follow our blog at blog.roberthalf.com.

Mix & Mingle WICPA NETWORKING EVENTS FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Further your career, strengthen your professional image or just make new friends at the WICPA's 2016 Mix & Mingle networking events.

Tuesday

AT EACH EVENT: Network with other like-minded professionals Participate in entertaining activities exclusive to each event

14 June

Wednesday

20 July

Tuesday

Visit the Committee Corner

26 July

Enjoy food and drinks Tuesday

TO REGISTER: Go to wicpa.org/YPEvents $30 per event

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Stillmank Brewery | Green Bay 215 N. Henry St.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Brewery Tour & Meet the Brew Master

UW-Madison Union South | Madison 1308 W. Dayton St. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Babcock Hall Ice Cream Tasting

Spectrum Investment Advisors | Mequon 6329 W. Mequon Rd. 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Investing 101 Presentation

Hy-Vee | Fitchburg 2920 Fitchrona Rd. 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.

October

Breakfast Demo & Wellness 101 Presentation

Thursday

History Museum at the Castle | Appleton

20 October

Wednesday

7

December

330 E. College Ave. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Tour Museum Exhibits

Pettit Center | Milwaukee 500 S. 84th St.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Ice Skating (optional)

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versatile | mentoring

How to find a mentor and why you need one (or more)

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hink of having a mentor, or mentors, like having your own board of directors. As the CEO of your career, it’s critical, for a number of reasons, to take advantage of formal mentor opportunities when available or initiate informal versions when they're not. Regardless of the stage you’re in - a student in job search mode, a new employee in your chosen field, or an employee who has accumulated industry experience - having a valued mentor can be a game changer.

What are the benefits of having a mentor?

By Gina C. Skibo, CPA

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A mentor often provides a unique opportunity to provide industry knowledge, as well as personal introductions to contacts that take years to accumulate. A mentor can be a sounding board, providing an objective perspective, potentially one that's different from your own. Don’t expect an answer but instead

tailored information and hard-earned insight to help you make better decisions. A mentor can help you develop your talents by knowing what your experiences have been, and what types of opportunities will help you continue to build on your skillsets.

How do you find a mentor?

There are a variety of ways to find a mentor.

Students can seek out a professor or someone in the field they plan to enter. Once you're an employee at a company, many times there are formal mentorship programs. At Wipfli, we provide each new employee with a “peer mentor” - a co-worker who started within the last few years and is familiar with the challenges a new employee may face - and a coach who is a more experienced employee who can provide more of the traditional benefits of mentorship.

If a formal mentorship program doesn't exist, seek out a mentor on your own. Be observant. Find someone you trust and respect and who you believe will have your best interests at heart. Often that person may be advanced in the area that you want to pursue, but this doesn’t need to be the case. Perhaps there's a specific skill you're striving to achieve. In this instance find someone who exemplifies this skill. The mentor relationship can also start very informally.

You may have an issue and are looking for someone to help you with this particular concern. A single, genuine discussion on that topic with someone you feel has experience in that area often leads to future discussions, and the foundation for a mentor relationship is built in the process.

How do you cultivate your mentor relationship?

Having regular meetings is important to build the foundation of your relationship. There's no set frequency or type of meetings, they may be weekly or monthly or somewhere in between. They may be on-site meetings or a more casual discussion over lunch. The key is that it’s consistent, something that works for you and your mentor, and facilitates effective discussions. Put thought into your

discussions before they occur so you can make the most of your time together. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it.

You’ve got a mentor, so what now?

Pay attention to the way your mentor handles difficult situations and other career growth opportunities. You will observe behaviors and attributes you find to be successful and want to add to your own skillset, and supplement those with your own personal touch. They have experiences you can draw on. Provide your experiences and ask about theirs as well. Remember, a truly ideal mentor relationship is one that's mutually beneficial.

While you may not have the career experience your mentor has, you have a unique perspective that your mentor can learn from as well.

A mentor is a positive role model to whom you’re accountable. Having a sense of accountability to someone you know has your best interests at heart is motivating. You're much more likely to execute on the things you discuss when you have that level of accountability. Additionally, one mentor may not be enough! I’ve had several individuals through my career who have helped me in very tangible, yet very different ways, depending on their areas of expertise.

Find a mentor, be a mentor!

Once you know what it means to be a mentor, pass that value on to someone else. Become a mentor yourself. This can start in the smallest ways - being there to assist someone new with questions, providing constructive feedback to help someone learn, looking for opportunities that facilitate progressing a skillset someone displays.

Remember, you’re the CEO of your own company.

Don’t let the opportunity to have a board of directors pass you by.

Gina C. Skibo, CPA is a partner at Wipfli in Milwaukee. Contact her at 414-431-9386 or gskibo@wipfli.com.

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rewarded | scholarship spotlight

Oppo I BECAME A CPA BECAUSE… I realized early on during my freshman year at the University of WisconsinWhitewater that I wasn’t passionate about my original major (environmental science).

We were required to take business courses as part of the environmental science program, which is when I discovered how interesting I found my economics class. I switched to pre-business by second semester and soon recognized accounting was a perfect fit after my first week in Intro to Accounting. From that point forward, my focus was on becoming a CPA and landing a job with a Big 4 firm.

By Matthew Westphal, CPA

RECEIVING A SCHOLARSHIP FROM THE WICPA WAS… beneficial for allowing me the time to focus on classes and studying for the CPA Exam during the school year. I began studying for the exam in February of my final semester, which allowed me to sit for the exam immediately upon graduation.

MY EXPERIENCE TAKING THE CPA EXAM WAS… not nearly as terrifying as everyone made it out to be, although the computer I was using crashed during my FAR exam (on the second to last simulation!). But thankfully, the testing center was able to recover the exam without requiring me to retake it. My classes at UW-Whitewater prepared me well for the exam, and my CPA review course set me up for success.

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y t i n u t r

s k c o n k MY CAREER PATH INCLUDES… I started working for Deloitte LLP in September 2012.

I’m currently an audit senior in our Milwaukee office and I serve on two Fortune 500 engagements. My plan is to continue learning from the smart and talented people who I work with at Deloitte and my clients. My goal is to one day have an opportunity to become a chief financial officer, hopefully at a Wisconsin company. Once it’s time to hang up the suit and tie, I’d love to return to UW-Whitewater as an accounting professor.

It’s my responsibility to manage our team, the project plan, and the budget. As I’m on-site so often, I’m typically the first point of contact with the client, and thus the first to hear both the good and the bad stories.

IF I HAD TO DESCRIBE WHAT I DO IN JUST THREE WORDS, I WOULD SAY… delivering trusted insights.

A DAY IN MY LIFE AS A CPA INVOLVES…

WHAT I ENJOY MOST ABOUT MY CAREER IS…

delivering high-quality results to my clients and to the investing public. I spend a significant amount of my schedule at my client’s office, which leaves little time at our downtown office. Constantly being on-site at the client has its own set of challenges, and you need to be prepared and professional at all times. Having the role of lead senior for one of my Fortune 500 jobs allows me direct contact with executive and upper management employees, including the CFO and CAO.

the potential for advancement is nearly unlimited.

As a CPA, we’re looked upon by both internal and external stakeholders for insights into how the business is performing. Individuals will also seek our input into ways to improve the business. Within other careers, you may be forced to stay in one function of the business, but by having the CPA, you open yourself to opportunities outside the traditional accounting function.

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rewarded | scholarship spotlight

I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT… working with students and individuals new to the profession.

I’ve always enjoyed the enthusiasm a new hire brings to their first day on the job or how excited a first-year accounting student is about the profession. Our profession will only grow stronger if we continue to allocate investments, including time investments, to these young individuals. This is my way of giving back. Everyone has a unique and useful perspective to share, whether you’ve spent four years or 40 years in this profession.

MY ADVICE TO ASPIRING ACCOUNTING MAJORS IS… focus on building your network early on. Meet the accounting firms at career fairs and make sure to reach out to the professionals that you interact with during those recruiting events – most are elated to have a student interested in hearing their stories! Don’t be afraid to reach out and inquire about internships, even if you don’t think you’ll be qualified. Spending a summer working at an accounting internship will help guide your post-graduation decision-making.

WHAT I KNOW NOW THAT I WISH I KNEW BACK IN COLLEGE IS… so much of my day relies upon skillsets learned outside of my accounting classes. It would be impossible to be successful without bringing skills learned from my communication, marketing and management classes. It may be difficult to appreciate when you’re still in college, but make the most of your non-core classes. They may be “non-core” for obtaining your degree, but I guarantee those classes will be “core” to your career.

MATTHEW'S

Fun Facts

WHEN I’M NOT WORKING, I ENJOY… working out, spending time in downtown Milwaukee and finding awesome brunch spots.

I NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT… breath mints.

MY FAVORITE BOOK IS… “Crucial Conversations.”

This is a book that I’ve referenced ever since I received it as a gift in 2010.

THIS SUMMER, I’m using my vacation time to take a trip to Mexico.

PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THIS, BUT… I’m starting to seek out an international deployment within the next three years. The goal is to gain experience (12–18 months) working internationally for a multinational company.

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

Matthew Westphal, CPA is an audit senior at Deloitte LLP in Milwaukee.

Contact him at 414-271-3000 or mwestphal@deloitte.com.

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educated | skill development

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By Renee R. Bardenwerper, CPA

hen I was asked to write about my experience at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountant’s Leadership Academy, I was thrilled. What better way for me to represent myself and my profession than by writing about a topic that has truly impacted me in almost every aspect of my life. My experience at the AICPA Leadership Academy (LA) was above expectations. I met 36 outstanding CPAs from across the United States. It gave me a chance to rekindle my passion for my career and grow my leadership skills.

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educated | skill development

Starting out at LA, we identified characteristics of leaders. A few traits we identified were being courageous and having the ability to recognize talent and to inspire individuals. Leaders today recognize the need for and adapt to changing times. They also acknowledge that they can’t do everything.

Successful leaders build a supportive team around them. When a team member’s values align with that of the organization or its mission and values, buy-in and sense of loyalty is created. This bond then fuels the team to work together to meet and exceed goals.

We were asked to do some preparation work that included webinars on creating and understanding well-being, taking a values assessment and Gallup’s strengths assessment.

Our strengths, values and personal experiences shape who we are and influence the decisions we make in all aspects of our lives. They also help us determine the goals we set. We all bring a unique perspective to our jobs, our home lives and our communities. A good leader recognizes this and embraces these differences as an opportunity to learn from others and continue to grow.

CPA2b | wicpa.org

This gave me the opportunity to rethink why I volunteer and about the time I commit to various organizations. Not surprisingly, I found myself caught up in other people’s missions, not my own. Since LA, I have worked to refocus my time commitment to my interests and strengths. As a former athlete, helping coach my daughter’s softball team has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Each girl puts a smile on my face each time I see her improve. I strive to be a positive role model for them, and I look forward to continuing as their coach and watching them grow as athletes and successful young women.

"If the task at hand is worthy, don’t be afraid to confront the challenge; discomfort will lead to growth."

LA events weren’t limited to classroom exercises and discussions. We had many organized activities that allowed for us to get to know each other.

We talked about our jobs, families, careers and future aspirations. One evening during dinner we created cards for sick children. It was a lighthearted experience that helped remind us how truly fortunate

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we are. It emphasized the fact that volunteering and giving back is a vital part of being a leader. A true leader tends to naturally lead when he or she identifies with a cause that’s fulfilling.

During our strengths assessments we identified our own personal strengths. By doing so, we identified how we can best help a situation.

We can also be aware of our own weaknesses and recognize where we need to add to our team or support network. We can select teammates that possess strengths that complement our own. A true leader acknowledges his or her weakness. We can’t be afraid to make mistakes or that someone isn’t going to agree with a decision we make.

Many people think asking for help is taboo. A leader will ask for help when it’s needed and not go it alone.

Asking for help is a way to build confidence in those around you. It’s a way to make people feel needed and valued. It’s also a way to give, and in turn, earn respect.

Many times in life we are faced with difficult tasks.

Some of them may even feel uncomfortable. If the task at hand is worthy, don’t be afraid to confront the challenge; discomfort will lead to growth.

Public speaking, writing a blog, attending a networking event, or asking a potential client for their business can be intimidating, but each time you do it, it will get easier. These uncomfortable times are when we grow, mature, and expand our future career possibilities. Leaders are courageous and can cope with the fear of failure in an effort to keep pushing forward.

One of the biggest things I took away from LA was that we are all unique and possess our own strengths and weaknesses. We share some common

characteristics, but the way we use our personal combination of strengths and values sets us apart and gives us the opportunity to lead with pride and passion. I’ve learned that to be successful, leaders need to build strong sustainable support networks that will allow them to push toward the future and lead with conviction for causes they believe in.

Renee R. Bardenwerper, CPA is manager at Winter, Kloman, Moter & Repp S.C. in Oconomowoc. Contact her at 262-567-6540 or ReneeB@wkmr.com.

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hired | resumes

Develop a resume PROFILE

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s society looks toward using technology for just about everything and firms are becoming paperless environments, one thing that will always be necessary is the classic resume. Although you will be submitting your resume electronically and/or by email, the resume must still be crafted on the “old school” page. And just because you are submitting a resume electronically or via email, don’t forget to include a cover letter, which I refer to as the “cover message.”

As an experienced HR professional, I have seen a wide variety of resume styles - some that work and others that fall flat. Other firms may have differences in what they find to be important, but here’s what I look for in a resume when seeking accounting professionals to work at Wegner CPAs.

By Kari Nichols

1. Your resume must make sense.

Give the hiring manager a clear picture of your education and work experience along with dates. If there’s a lapse between dates, use your cover message to explain. If it becomes a puzzle to figure out what a candidate has been doing, it may appear as if he or she is concealing something. Also, for those in school or recent graduates, I strongly recommend you share your GPA in the education portion of your resume.

CONTACT Kari Nichols is the HR manager at Wegner CPAs in Madison.

Contact her at 608-274-4020 or kari.nichols@wegnercpas.com.

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2. Share your transferrable skills.

List all of your positions, even if they’re not in the industry or aren’t the same type of job for which you’re applying. There are ways to emphasize aspects of your experience that are transferrable to the new opportunity.

Feature communication skills or your ability to work effectively in a team environment. Wegner has a dynamic environment where all employees have a voice and are encouraged to use it within their teams, committees, and in meetings, so showcase that.

that gets you noticed 3. Highlight your leadership qualities.

When you’re detailing responsibilities for your previous positions, reveal ways in which you have been a leader in those roles. Leadership qualities are important for employees at all levels. We feel so strongly about this that we offer a formal leadership training program (Guiding Leaders) to all of our employees as part of our employee professional growth initiatives.

4. List your extracurricular activities.

Employers are drawn to people who like to be involved in things that supplement their education and experience, like volunteering or being in a club.

We encourage our employees to participate in extracurricular activities on behalf of the firm that can enhance their professional growth, i.e. being a committee member, volunteering in the community, attending firm-sponsored events and participating on recruiting teams.

5. No need for an objective statement.

There have been wavering messages about the importance of an objective statement at the top of your resume. My opinion is that your objective is obvious and the content of your education, experience and extra activities are what I focus on.

As promised, I want to get back to my idea of the “cover message.” This is an important piece to include because it gives you the opportunity to let the firm know why you’re interested in them over other firms.

I see resumes that have all the right qualifications, but without the cover message, I’m unsure how to determine the candidates who know who we are and genuinely want to join our team. I’m sure you have all heard the tip: “Do your homework before interviewing.”

I recommend doing your homework before applying for a position.

Wegner CPAs sets itself apart from other firms in many ways and it impresses me when a candidate has “checked us out” and uses a cover message to share with us what resonated with them. Naturally, once you have secured an interview, sharing more of what you learned about the firm when you’re in front of the hiring manager will set you apart from other candidates.

If you follow the five important resume tips above and do a little homework before sending your cover message and resume, you’re setting yourself up to be noticed among the sea of your peer candidates.

Employers often visit your LinkedIn page after receiving your resume. Once you have perfected it, be sure to update your LinkedIn profile with any new information or skills you have highlighted on your resume.

To learn more about Wegner CPAs and our career opportunities, visit our website at www.wegnercpas.com/careers. Also, be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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tech savvy | Excel

LEARN TWO ALL-TIME TOP

EXCEL TIPS

By Val D. Steed, CPA, CITP

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

M

ost Excel users have no idea of these two very important capabilities of Excel. The first feature, Precision as Displayed, was added to Excel 5.0 in 1994. The second feature, Flash Fill, was added in Excel 2013. Take your Excel productivity and efficiency to a new level by learning both of these tips.

Display of Zeros and Precision as Displayed One of the confounding problems of using any of the financial number formats (accounting, currency, and number) is the display of zeros. Recall that the third part of any number format code is the code to display zeros. However, the format code only applies when the value in a cell is equal to zero, not when the value in a cell appears to be zero, such as when a small value rounds off automatically to zero for display. This is especially problematic when using the accounting format because cells can be displayed as zeros, positive zeros, or negative zeros, as shown in Figure 1.

properly when using the accounting format. When a positive or negative zero cell is encountered, simply round the contents of the cell to the appropriate number of decimal places using the ROUND function.

The second solution to this problem is to enable global rounding in the affected workbook. When global rounding is enabled, all values are rounded to their cell formats. In other words, the values 0.001 or -0.001 (or smaller) displayed with two decimals would automatically be rounded to a cell value of zero, which would be displayed properly when using the accounting format. To enable global rounding in a workbook, users of Excel 2010 should click the File tab of the Ribbon, Options, Advanced, and in the section labeled When calculating this workbook, check the box next to Set precision as displayed and click OK. Excel 2007 users should click the Office Button and then Excel Options. Select Advanced on the Navigation Bar on the left. In the Option Pane on the right, check Set precision as displayed in the section titled When calculating this workbook.

Click OK. Regardless of which version of Excel is running, enabling global rounding in a workbook causes Excel to display the warning shown in Figure 2.

Figure 1 - Zero Display Using the Accounting Format

Some practitioners have become so frustrated with this problem that they enter hard-coded zeros over formulas when this occurs so that zeros display consistently throughout their reports. In the process of overwriting their formulas, however, they potentially corrupt their worksheet so that it does not recalculate properly in the future.

There are two easily applied solutions to this problem. The most common solution is to roundoff calculations to the number of displayed decimals. In other words, the values 0.001 or -0.001 (or smaller) rounded to two decimals would result in a cell value of zero, which would be displayed

Figure 2 - Warning Message Displayed When Precision as Displayed is Enabled

Do not be alarmed by the warning. Click OK, and all of the cells that contain zeros will now display properly.

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tech savvy | Excel

Before continuing, an explanation of the warning message is in order. To do that, we must first review how Excel makes calculations. In default, Excel rounds off for display but uses the underlying data to make calculations. Precision as Displayed alters the way that Excel evaluates formulas. With Precision as Displayed enabled, Excel ignores the underlying data and uses the data displayed on the screen to make calculations.

Hence, when Precision as Displayed is enabled, all calculations will foot and cross-foot properly. In other words, practitioners will not encounter the proverbial one-cent rounding error that often results in worksheets because the numbers displayed on the screen are used to make the calculations. The example in Figure 3 will help in explaining Precision as Displayed.

has been enabled. In this case, Excel is using the data displayed on the face of the worksheet to make the calculation, and the rounding error disappears.

Note that this issue does not arise when cells contain formulas. In other words, Precision as Displayed can be enabled or disabled at will without any impact on the accuracy of the underlying data when the data results from formulas.

Flash Fill Added to Excel 2013, Flash Fill is a new data manipulation feature that allows you to split, combine or rearrange data quickly and easily without using commands or formulas. Whether it's rearranging customer contact names, inserting parentheses and hyphens in telephone numbers, or separating account numbers and account names in a QuickBooks trial balance, Flash Fill can get the job done, as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4 – Use Flash Fill to Manipulate Data

Figure 3 - Rounding Error Corrected by Enabling Precision as Displayed

Note the one-cent (least significant digit) rounding error in the table at the top of Figure 3. The total displayed is $297.71 but should read $297.72. The error occurs because Excel is using the underlying data shown in the column displayed on the right to make the calculation. In the bottom table, Precision as Displayed

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CPA2b | wicpa.org

There are multiple ways to apply Flash Fill. In default, Excel displays Flash Fill suggestions as you work. As shown in Figure 5, a user has modified the first record and has moved to the second record. As the user begins modifying the second record, Excel automatically displays a suggested flash fill for the column. At that point, the user can press ENTER to accept the suggested flash fill or press ESC to cancel the suggested fill.

Alternatively, select Data, Flash Fill from the Ribbon or press CTRL + E to execute Flash Fill from the keyboard.

To reformat a list of telephone numbers, type one number, as it is to appear with parentheses and a hyphen, press ENTER, and then press CTRL + E. If Excel is unsure of what is to be done for any record, it will skip the record. Move the cursor to a skipped record, "correct" it, and then press CTRL + E to fill similar records. Continue this process until the entire column has been updated.

Val D. Steed, CPA, CITP is the CEO of K2 Enterprises, which is a national technology training and consulting organization. Contact him at 985-542-9390 or val@k2e.com.

Figure 5 – Excel Automatically Displays a Suggested Flash Fill

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strategic | career planning

Destination CPA

By Amy Gaeth

Destination CPA is a new feature profiling how young professionals got their start in the profession, the resources that helped them along the way and misconceptions they had about being a CPA.

NICHES

• Industry • Public • Non Profit Accounting • Government

RESOURCES • job board • people • resume • WICPA workshop

LAW

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BLOGS

Paul Quackenboss, CPA Job title: Credit Analyst l Employer: Park Bank, Brookfield

How did you find your first job?

I was at a career conference in college. I talked to the recruiter from the company and from there it worked out.

Which resource was the most helpful in your job-search efforts?

you should stay at every job at least two years.

Things were just more of the same and then when I was really looking for a new job, interviewers saw right through the situation and could tell I hadn’t done anything new in the last 13 months.

My college had a very good career center that included mock interviews, tips on dressing and several visits from employers.

If you can’t envision a path and no one’s communicating to you what the future will hold, that’s a very good indicator it’s time to move on. Never be shy to quit a job if you are leaving on good terms for a position you want.

Which resource turned out to be less helpful than you thought?

What’s one thing they didn’t tell you about the profession in college?

Online postings/job boards. They weren’t as prominent 10 years ago as they are today. It was building relationships that really helped me.

It was my experience that college was mostly black and white. You always knew how you were doing.

Until you develop broad economic sense there will be a lot of gray area. You will have to make decisions on your own, which sometimes might not be the right ones, but if you stick with it, eventually you’ll get it.

What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew before starting your first job?

When I graduated college, I didn’t realize how dynamic things were. To improve is to change, to be perfect is to change often. Society, technology, consumer sentiment is ever evolving and you need to evolve with it.

It's okay to block and tackle (only do audit and tax work) for a little while. But it’s important to determine what the stakeholder’s value is and make it your mission to drive it.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received?

Family and friends are all! No matter what your career is, your family and friends are all you have.

Be sure to make time for them.

What’s the worst career advice you’ve received?

I was at a job where things became stagnant after about eight months as the company wasn’t growing at the level they anticipated. I was under the belief

What are some dead-wrong assumptions people make about CPAs? People seem to think CPAs are boring. Some are, but some of the most interesting people I have met are CPAs. What myths about CPAs are actually true?

If you can pass the CPA Exam, it makes accomplishing lots of things possible.

What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mentor in the profession?

It’s a line borrowed from Wayne Gretzky: “Anticipate where the puck is going to be.” Ultimately, try to provide a good or service that will be in demand and do a fabulous job exceeding customer expectations.

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strategic | career planning

Kortni K. Smith, CPA Job title: Senior Accountant l Employer: Wipfli LLP, Milwaukee

How did you find your first job?

I was fortunate to be matched with Wipfli LLP through the accounting internship program at Marquette University.

Matching programs typically entail numerous accounting firm interviews over a few days and then ranking your preferred firm in the hopes that the firm also ranks you as a desired candidate.

Which resource was the most helpful in your job-search efforts?

I believe the most important resource is the people that you know - whether they directly help you find a job, have meaningful advice about potential career choices, or can share their own personal experiences.

Which resource turned out to be less helpful than you thought?

I attended some resume building workshops, which included formatting your resume to be eyecatching. While your resume should look professional, and information like your GPA, activities and past employment experience are important, I’ve found that employers are more interested in you rather than what you write on a piece of paper.

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What’s the best career advice you’ve received?

Find what works best for you. Maybe you’re a morning person or perhaps you don’t mind working through dinner. Maybe you prefer to work out of the same office every day or maybe you like to travel. One of the best benefits of the profession is schedule flexibility, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of your options.

What’s the worst career advice you’ve received?

Follow the money. I think it’s a misconception that how much you make relates to how great your job is. Do what you love to do because that will be more meaningful to you. What keeps you coming back is how much you love your job and not how much you make.

What’s one thing they didn’t tell you about the profession in college?

There are more career choices than you can possibly think of for CPAs, especially when an accounting degree is combined with another degree! Do your research on job opportunities afforded to CPAs to pick a career path that best suits what you’re looking for.

What are some dead-wrong assumptions people make about CPAs? That we are dull and boring! My office finds plenty of time to attend happy hours, join co-ed sports teams and volunteer in the community.

What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew before starting your first job?

What myths about CPAs are actually true?

I wish the importance of effective communication was emphasized more when I was in college. I’m an auditor, so I spend the majority of my time interacting in person with clients. While good grades and hard work may get your foot in the door, you’ll stay employed somewhere based on your ability to develop meaningful relationships with your clients and co-workers.

What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mentor in the profession?

CPA2b | wicpa.org

We are hard workers. The hours may seem brutal at times, but it’s extremely satisfying when you put in the work and accomplish what you set out to do.

Don’t sweat the small stuff! Everyone makes mistakes and every mistake should be looked at as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Angela C. Thomas, CPA Job title: General Accounting Section Chief Employer: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Madison

How did you find your first job?

I wanted to know more about the profession, so I met with a CPA to talk about his career path.

The conversation led to me job shadowing. By day’s end, I filled out an application and then went through the process to be hired.

People who love what they do, love to talk about it, and if you show enthusiasm too, you might make a connection.

Which resource was the most helpful in your job-search efforts?

Becoming a student member with the WICPA. You will have opportunities to attend activities and receive communications about what’s trending in the industry.

This also provides opportunities to meet professionals in different accounting niches that you could talk with and learn if it might be an area of interest for you.

Which resource turned out to be less helpful than you thought?

Searching the internet and reading personal blogs can be misguiding. Try to find real people working or teaching to provide that information.

What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew before starting your first job?

There’s a lot you can teach yourself about the different software packages and accounting programs that businesses use to meet the needs of their clients.

By developing skills, you can sell yourself and often get a job in the field before you finish your degree.

of accounting you want to practice right away. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants said it well a number of years ago, “Accounting is the one degree with 360 degrees of possibilities.”

What’s a dead-wrong assumption people make about CPAs? Assumption: Accounting is boring equals accountants are boring.

It’s really exciting. You could be a public accountant performing a broad range of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting tasks, or an entrepreneur who starts or runs a business, a financial advisor to a movie star, a government accountant, chief financial officer for a business, or an expert witness who’s paid to testify in complex trials. The list goes on and on.

What myth about CPAs is actually true?

Myth: CPAs are perfectionists.

There’s an element of truth here. CPAs scrutinize financial records looking for errors, inconsistencies or irregularities. Much time is spent reconciling and balancing and that often involves an exact match. We want to see financial records in balance and will work tirelessly to figure it out.

What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mentor in the profession?

Integrity is the essence of everything successful.

The final word As you finish school and enter the work force keep in mind to “dress for the job you want, not necessarily the job you have.”

What’s the best career advice you’ve received?

Become a CPA and it will open doors for the rest of your career. Also, you don’t need to decide what type

Amy Gaeth is vice president of communications and editor of CPA2b. Contact her at 262-785-0445 ext. 4515 or amy@wicpa.org.

800-772-6939

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CAREER START YOUR JOB SEARCH HERE! FEATURED FIRMS www.bakertilly.com

www.sattell.com

Tara Tomter, Manager, Campus, 608-240-2445

Leanne Buttke, CPA, 414-273-0500

Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP is a nationally recognized, full-service accounting and advisory firm whose specialized professionals connect with clients and their businesses through refreshing candor and clear industry insight. Baker Tilly is ranked as one of the 15 largest accounting and advisory firms in the country. Headquartered in Chicago, Baker Tilly is an independent member of Baker Tilly International.

Sattell, Johnson, Appel was founded in 1954 on the principle of family first.

SJA provides a wide range of services, across all industries, to our individual and business clients. Due to the personalized nature of our firm, our clients benefit in receiving quality service that is beyond comparison. Our commitment to excellence continues to inspire and anchor us as we pursue our client’s success.

www.cliftonlarsonallen.com Toni Stangohr, Campus Liaison, Toni.stangohr@CLAconnect.com At CLA, we strive to provide a variety of work experiences that develop skills, knowledge, and expertise. Our industry-driven approach, seamless delivery of services, and focus on not just private businesses and community organizations but also the people who own and lead them, all give our team the chance to grow as professionals and create personalized career paths.

www.sikich.com Tim Mastrino, Talent Acquisition Manager, tim.mastrino@sikich.com Sikich LLP, a leading professional services firm, has more than 700 employees throughout the country. Founded in 1982, Sikich now ranks as one of the country’s Top 35 Certified Public Accounting Firms. Sikich Clients can use a broad spectrum of services and products that help them reach long-term, strategic goals.

www.HawkinsAshCPAs.com Becky Hughes, Human Resources Manager, 608-784-7737 Jump-start your career at Hawkins Ash CPAs. Our interns and recent graduates get the experiences and training they need to set the direction of their careers and excel. They work alongside our senior staff, ensuring they get the most exposure.

We have offices in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Learn more: HawkinsAshCPAs.com.

www.sgcpa.com Angela Hildestad, PHR, HR Manager, 608-836-7500 Smith & Gesteland, LLP is a local CPA firm who was voted #1 accounting firm

by Madison business leaders! We value life/work balance and provide a culture and environment where people want to stay. People stay because they feel appreciated, are challenged and know they are the future leaders of our firm.

www.meichercpas.com

www.sva.com

Blake Fritz, Partner, 608-826-1900

Sherry Gustafson, Human Resources Director, 608-826-2108

Established in 1981, Meicher CPAs, LLP has earned an unequaled reputation for professionalism, high quality service and attention to detail. We’ve built solid relationships with our clients by working closely with them to understand their individual situations and needs. We have extensive experience in a variety of areas and offer a full range of tax and accounting services.

SVA Certified Public Accountants, headquartered in Madison since 1974, provides professional accounting services for individuals and businesses. Services include: all accounting services, small business accounting software, audits, tax planning and reporting, strategy sessions, and business consulting. With offices in Brookfield, Appleton, and Rockford, our goal is to be a trusted advisor to our clients.

| wicpa.org IF40YOURCPA2b FIRM WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED IN THE FIRM SPOTLIGHT, PLEASE CONTACT ELLEN ENGEL AT 262-785-0445 EXT. 4513 OR ELLEN@WICPA.ORG.

SPOTLIGHT START YOUR JOB SEARCH HERE! FEATURED FIRMS www.wegnercpas.com

www.wkmr.com

Kari Nichols, Human Resource Manager, 608-274-4020

Julia Geerdts, Firm Administrator, 262-797-9050

Wegner CPAs is about people - our clients, our community, and our staff.

Each day we strive to put our people first and encourage intelligent growth.

Our goal is to foster employees who are passionate about and confident in the work they do which inspires their colleagues and clients. Subscribe on our website to Wegner CPAs’ Career Connection and receive job-seeker info, tips, advice, & job notifications.

FIRM LISTING KERBERROSE SC www.kerberrose.com Contact: Melissa Olsen, PHR, Human Resources Administrator 715-526-9400

SCHENCK SC www.schencksc.com Contact: Jill Dequaine, PHR, SHRM-CP, Talent Acquisition Manager, jill.dequaine@schencksc.com

REILLY PENNER & BENTON LLP www.rpb.biz Contacts: Brian Mechenich, Partner and Laurie Olson, HR Manager, 414-271-7800

STROHM BALLWEG, LLP www.strohmballweg.com Contact: Gary Strohm, CPA, Managing Partner, and Renee Vedvig, Firm Administrator, 608-821-0600

RITZHOLMAN CPAS www.ritzholman.com Contact: Brian Wilson, CPA, Senior Manager, brianw@ritzholman.com

WIPFLI LLP www.wipfli.com Contact: Kristin Kallies Manager, Campus Recruitment kkallies@wipfli.com

Winter, Kloman, Moter & Repp was founded in 1968. As a full-service CPA firm, we have been named a Top Workplace by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for the past four years and have received special recognition for our dedication to ethical practices. We are committed to providing our employees with a “work/life balance” culture and the tools to succeed, grow and become leaders of our firm.

FEATURED INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES www.actuant.com Linda Salbeck, linda.salbeck@actuant.com Actuant Corporation is a diversified industrial company serving customers from operations in more than 30 countries. The Actuant businesses are leaders in a broad array of niche markets including branded hydraulic tools and solutions; specialized products and services for energy markets and highly engineered position and motion control systems. The Company was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Wisconsin.

www.badgerlandfinancial.com Valerie Leake, HR Director, valerie.leake@badgerlandfinancial.com At Badgerland Financial, we have a unique insight into what it takes to deliver financial products and services for agriculture. That includes loans, insurance, tax and accounting assistance and expert advice. We are a cooperative with 17 branch offices across southern Wisconsin. We are also part of the nationwide Farm Credit system helping cultivate rural living for over 100 years.

IF YOUR FIRM WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED IN THE FIRM SPOTLIGHT, PLEASE CONTACT ELLEN ENGEL AT 262-785-0445 EXT. 4513 OR ELLEN@WICPA.ORG. 800-772-6939

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prepared | job search tips

ACCOUNTING STUDENTS: Review these tips before starting your job search “Be sure to research the firm before the interview and send a thank you note afterwards. As an extra tip, handwritten notes can go a long way.”

Tim Mastrino, Talent Acquisition Manager, Sikich LLP

“For accounting students in the beginning phase of their job search, I would recommend taking full advantage of the career services offered through the school. I would also advise connecting with faculty advisors, leveraging all networking relationships as well as maximizing experiences through the WICPA and Beta Alpha Psi. Also, if students had an internship or volunteering experience throughout their time in school, reconnecting with those employers and resources is effective and beneficial.”

Brian Wilson, CPA, Senior Manager, RitzHolman CPAs

Resume tips for accounting students: “Employers are drawn to candidates that like to be involved in things that supplement their education and experience. List them on your resume. Also, emphasize ways in which you have been a leader in your previous job experiences.”

Kari Nichols, Human Resource Director, Wegner CPAs

“It’s important to get exposure to many different areas of accounting. We certainly don’t expect new employees who recently graduated to know exactly what they want to do with their professional careers, that’s part of learning and growing with your first job.”

Ann Binzak, Tax Manager, Sattell, Johnson, Appel & Co., S.C.

Job search for internships?

"I’d suggest showing employers that you not only keep a great GPA, but also are active in the community. Today, employers don’t just look at your academics. Companies are looking for talent that will fit in their culture and will be active in company committees and events. If you show you’re committed to giving back or active in different groups in your university, this is a large benefit for the employer. It makes you stand out above another candidate with the same education as you."

Job search for post-college position?

"Having an internship is going to get you far in the application process. It shows the employer that you have experience in not only the accounting field, but also the business setting. It shows companies that you have been responsible for certain tasks, have worked in a team setting, and much more. This is probably the most beneficial item you can have on your resume when searching for a full-time position.”

Amanda LaPlante, CPA, Senior Associate, Hawkins Ash CPAs

“Understand what you want. Research companies to understand if they will be a fit for what you are seeking in your career, even if that means a different path than your peers. The recruitment process is a two-way street, you are interviewing the company just as carefully as the organization is evaluating you.”

Kristin Kallies, Campus Recruitment Manager, Wipfli LLP