u/FluffyIntern7936

I currently work full-time in accounting, but I’m looking to earn some extra income so I’m considering getting a part-time weekend job in retail.

The only thing is, I haven’t worked in retail for around 4–5 years, so I’m worried employers might see me as unsuitable or overqualified.

What should I include on my CV for these kinds of roles?

Do I include my current 9–5 accounting role?

Or should I mainly focus on my previous retail experience?

If I leave accounting off, how would I explain the 4–5 year gap?

Also, does anyone have suggestions for flexible weekend/evening jobs that work well alongside a full-time office job?

Thanks!

I’m a 30-year-old woman currently studying AAT while earning £32k at a small firm in London.

My role involves preparing accounts/financial statements for a variety of businesses. Because the firm is small, there’s no real hierarchy — I have full ownership and management of my work and report directly to the partners. However, this also means there are no management or progression opportunities within the firm.

I’m planning to finish my AAT this year and then move on to ACA via the fast-track route. So, God willing, I expect to be fully qualified in the next 2–3 years.

I’m starting to think ahead about my career, and I’m feeling a bit stuck/uncertain about the best path forward. I know that I want strong progression and a high salary — ideally at least £80k within the next 5 years, and ultimately reaching a 6-figure salary. Settling at around £45k isn’t enough for me long-term.

I’m unsure what the best route is after qualifying:

Should I aim to work my way up to partner in practice?

Or move into industry?

Would moving countries offer better opportunities?

I was thinking about potentially going down a financial analysis route as well.

I also worry that working at a small firm might make me less attractive to future employers. I hope not, as I’ve previously worked at a top 20 firm, but honestly, I feel I’ve gained much more hands-on experience and understanding at my current smaller firm.

I do enjoy preparing accounts, but I’d like to understand what other opportunities are available once I qualify.

I’d really appreciate advice from other accountants — especially those who have successfully progressed to higher salaries. What path did you take, and what would you recommend in my position?

Thank you for reading!