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The question that I receive on my blog more often then not is: “Where are all of the entry level accounting jobs?” There is no doubt that as I write the job market is tight and it is especially taking its toll on those coming out of college. To some it seems unfair to work hard for four years, pay for an education, and when you are ready to launch out there are no jobs in sight. Still others are tired of hearing “Sorry, but you have no experience” line as well.

So, what do you do?

Obviously, this is a complex problem that does not have a simple answer. There is no one answer that is perfect for every situation, but I want to share with you a few insights that might help uncover those entry level accountant jobs:

1. Maintain the right mind set – It is easy to get in a downward spiral when conducting a job search. No one wants to face rejection and you can quickly begin to lose confidence if you are not careful. You need to change your mindset about how long the process will take. In the recruiting world, I watch my numbers carefully. I know that I will have a successful job placement for about every seven interviews that take place with my clients (1:7). Now, sometimes the numbers are off for awhile but they always average out eventually. This helps me mentally not to put too much stress and worry into every interview. It gives me big picture thinking.

How can that translate to you? Well, tell yourself mentally that you might need at least 7-12 interviews for an entry level accountant job before you get an offer. Sure, it can happen sooner, but it might not. While you should put 100% in every interview, focus your attention on getting in front of more people for more interviews. Watch your mindset and keep your emotions in check. Everyone eventually got their start somewhere.

2. Better target your resume – There is a chance that your resume might not be serving you well. You need to target your resume for every position. This is especially important with accounting resumes. There are many sub-niches in accounting and employers are looking for specialists. Your resume is a marketing brochure and it may need for you to make some changes to get a better response.

Do a brainstorming session to unveil more skills. The truth is that you have more skills then you realize. If you are struggling with adding solid content to your resume, then take out a pad of paper and set the timer for 15 minutes. Do your best to write non-stop for 15 minutes until the timer is done. Think about all of the class projects, associations, internships and volunteer opportunities that you have had to this point. You used some of your unique skills and strengths to perform those activities. Use some of those skills sets and display them on your resume. A better resume will get you in front of more entry level accounting job opportunities. 

3. Be open to relocating for the right position – You also might want to seriously consider relocating to get your career started. Some companies and industries are thriving in this current economy regardless of how everyone else is doing. Now, in order to pull it off you are going to need to make yourself appear as local as possible. You need to compete against the other entry-level accountants that are already living in the area. It can be done but it takes more effort then just being a “tire-kicker” from a distance.

For inspiration, you might also consider taking a look at the Top Entry Level Employers Listing. This can be a great resource to see who has the most entry level accounting jobs available. Review the list and see if there are any areas close by that you might be able to concentrate on for your search.