Here’s What to Say When Your Family Asks “Why Accounting?”

Ah, the holidays. In years past, you’ve probably been steadily dodging your aunties and uncles’ favorite question — “so, what are you going to do after school?” 🤦 If you’ve chosen a career in accounting, you can finally rest easy. Whew! But there’s a second part that sometimes we forget about — “now, how do I help them understand what a future in accounting means?” Because if there’s something you can’t escape it’s the need for advocates and a support system as you go through your college journey. Why? College can admittedly get challenging at times and you’ll need people in your corner who can motivate and help you push through. When your cousin, Will, reveals that one of his close friends is also an accountant, he might be able to refer you for an internship! Tía Louisa might have a coworker who’s a pro at Excel and can help answer some questions you have about a class project. In short: there are material benefits to your family understanding why you picked accounting.

Just as you may have experienced, your family could have preconceived notions about accounting. That’s why we suggest being a little creative in the way you explain accounting and its benefits. Start by sharing how it operates and is relevant to their lives (don’t worry, we got some suggestions for you). By showing them how frequently accounting shows up IRL, they can start to piece together just how essential it is to society and the numerous opportunities available. You can even go the extra mile and explain using fun, interactive activities. Bust out the Monopoly board, or organize a budgeting challenge. It might also help to ask questions about their experiences related to finances and accounting (be strategic about this! The last thing you want to be told is to stay out of “grown folks business” 😂). Maybe you’ll find a way to illustrate how helpful an accountant was or would have been in helping to solve their challenges.

As protective family members often are, they likely will be concerned about the stability of an accounting career. That’s normal. Here’s your talking points:

Accounting is stable.

• They want to make sure you’re thinking long term. Thankfully you got the answers because there ain’t nothing but stability with accounting!
• Explain that accounting is a recession-proof field that has huge salary growth potential.
• Double down on the fact that every industry and company needs an accountant.

Accounting skills help with financial planning.

• With your accounting knowledge, you’ll be in the perfect position to analyze investment opportunities and save towards them. The opportunity to build generational wealth will definitely have them nodding their heads in agreement.

Accounting has lifestyle benefits.

• Beyond stability, your family’s biggest priority is your happiness. So, to wrap everything up, remind them of how accounting will contribute to your purpose and fulfillment.
• Mention the opportunities to travel on the company’s dime for work projects.
• Highlight how many accounting positions are remote and how that will benefit your mental health.
• And share how you’ll be able to pursue your passions. For example, they might have taken you to football games and seen you light up when your favorite player scored. Show them that you’ll have the opportunity to continue doing the same, but from the stadium as an accountant to a big franchise.

After all of that, they might still have questions. That’s okay — we love intrigue! Feed their curiosity because the better they understand, the better they can provide the right resources and support to help you along your journey. Let them know that their faith in you is invaluable and that you appreciate their willingness to help you along your chosen path.