Mark Smeaton

CAT FCCA

Partner

  • Location
  • Forfar

I chose to join EQ instead of going to college or university as I wanted to earn while learning. The fact that it took roughly the same time to qualify as an accountant compared to college/uni was always a plus for me.

Why did you choose a career in Accounts?
I wasn’t the cleverest at school but I always enjoyed working with numbers. It made sense to choose a career that involved doing something I liked.

Why did you choose the opportunity to join EQ over college or university?
To be honest… earning while learning. The fact that it took roughly the same time to qualify as an accountant compared to college/uni was always a plus for me. I was also keen to get a few extra pounds in the pocket.

Why did you choose EQ Accountants?
I come from a farming background and I knew that their Forfar office was very focused on Agriculture.

What’s a day in the life of a Trainee Accounts Assistant like?
I qualified back in 2008 and have been Partner at EQ for nearly two years. No two days are the same. There is a great variety of assignments working in an accountancy practice. I do spend a lot of time on the phone though!

What qualifications are you studying towards?
I’m a fully qualified accountant so the days of studying towards a qualification are over. However, every day is a school day. There is still much to learn well after qualifying.

What did you enjoy most about being a Trainee Accounts Assistant at EQ?
Working with clients and being part of their business. At EQ we are much more than just accountants and tax advisers.

What 3 qualities do you think a Trainee Accounts Assistant needs to have if they are to be successful?

1. You need to be able to work hard. Exams are tough and working at the same time is not an easy thing to do but it’s all worthwhile in the end.
2. You should enjoy your work. You spend most of your life at work so you have to like what you’re doing. The happier you are, the harder you work.
3. Be a good listener. Words of experience will get you far in this industry.

Do you have any advice for those interested in applying to join the team?
EQ is a great place to work with some fantastic opportunities. You won’t know until you’ve applied.