One of the key points that Johnson Kong, member of council at the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA), will be looking to emphasise at the Career Forum is the versatility of an accounting qualification.
“In the same way you can boil, fry or poach an egg, or use eggs for baking cakes, an accounting qualification is a valuable tool which can be used to work in many different industries and for making many career choices,” Kong says.
During his seminar at the forum, Kong will also talk about the soft skills required in the accounting profession, and how to stand out during job interviews.
In addition, he will explain the differences between the various types of professional accounting services. This will cover areas such as assurance and advisory offered by practising accountants working for CPA firms, and the role of accountants working in the government or commercial sector.
Kong says professionals equipped with an accounting qualification are not confined to one role or industry sector. “An accounting qualification offers far more opportunities than simply the context of being a practising accountant,” he explains.
He sees the forum as an ideal opportunity to introduce the HKICPA and talk about its role in the industry. He explains that the institute is the only body authorised by law to register and grant practising certificates to certified public accountants in Hong Kong. It also organises networking events and educational activities to support young members, including providing examination assistance.
An experienced accountant, Kong says that he will not only talk about his experience in the profession, but will provide forum visitors with advice on how to achieve and enjoy work-life balance.
“In terms of generational differences and attitudes toward work-life balance, the mindset is quite different than it was years ago, and it is a topic that is very important for young people,” he says. “It’s an open secret that accountants work long hours, especially through busy peak-season times, but there are ways to achieve work-life balance.”
