I am Shakirah Bamadhaj and I’m an audit senior from Helmi Talib Group.
One example is applying the knowledge of business consolidation. Till this day I referred to the CPA study guide (My Online Learning) for my notes and what I have learnt throughout the CPA Program. The CPA Program has also improved my critical thinking skills, which has aided me to communicate with my clients more intellectually.
A misconception I had towards audit or accounting is, it is a mundane job and it requires minimal communication. In reality, I spend almost half of the day communicating with clients and my peers. Having the CPA knowledge has improved my communication with clients as it has allowed me to provide them with strategic advice and become a business partner.
Being a CPA Australia member has given me a greater opportunity for a job promotion, as the firm recognises the credibility that I have gained from the CPA designation.
I was promoted to an audit senior shortly after completing my last module in the CPA Program. My firm has introduced applying data analytics in our audit engagements. CPA has eased this process for me at work as data analytics was introduced in one of the modules in the CPA Program.
I would advise my younger self to start the CPA Program as soon as possible as it may be the easiest way to move forward after university, given the momentum. Joining the CPA has also widened my professional connections through networking sessions and sharing sessions by other CPA members. Hence, it will be a great opportunity to the introduction of your professional career.
