cma
In recent times, many CMA students and young cost accountants have expressed deep frustration over not getting jobs or finding a solid footing for practice. As someone who has walked the same path, I understand the pain of rejection, the confusion of stagnation, and the anxiety of an uncertain future. But let me assure you — your CMA qualification is not a burden; it’s a powerful key. You just need to know how to turn the lock.
Why the Frustration?
The market has changed. Traditional roles are fewer, and competition is higher. But the solution isn’t to lose hope — it is to adapt, upskill, and showcase your unique value. Instead of waiting for opportunities, create them.
Step-by-Step Advice to Turn Things Around
1. Strengthen Your Basics
Your knowledge in costing, taxation, financial reporting, audit, and law is a powerful toolkit. Keep updating it. Join refresher courses, online classes, or peer groups. Focus on areas like:
Cost Audit and Cost Records
GST, Income Tax Filing
Financial Modelling and Tally Prime
Data Analytics using Excel or Power BI
2. Build Your Personal Brand
Today, visibility matters. Start a LinkedIn profile. Share short posts, analysis, or summaries of your learning. Let the world know you’re growing.
Write blogs on practical CMA topics
Record short video tips on YouTube or Instagram
Network with professionals, seniors, and recruiters
3. Earn While You Learn
Freelancing is a great way to build experience. Start with:
Filing GST returns for small businesses
Preparing financial statements
Helping students with concept clarity
Joining internship programs, even unpaid ones initially
These small steps build your credibility.
4. Start Small, Dream Big – Practice Can Grow
If you want to practice, begin with small compliance services:
MSME registration
Digital Signature services
PF/ESI registration
Business setup consultancy
Once you win trust, clients will refer more. Collaboration with other professionals (CAs, CSs, Lawyers) can expand your scope.
5. Join Professional Bodies and Events
Attend seminars, webinars, and regional conferences. Be part of WIRC, EIRC, or SIRC discussions. Volunteering also builds your name in the professional circle.
6. Be Patient but Persistent
It takes time to establish a career, whether in job or practice. The first few years are your foundation. Don’t compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on small progress every day.
A Message of Hope
Dear young professionals, I started my practice in 2019 with a mere Rs. 7000 turnover. Today, our firm serves multiple PSUs across India with 10 partners. It didn’t happen overnight. It was built brick by brick, client by client, and mistake by mistake.
You are not alone. This profession needs you. India needs qualified CMAs in every industry, every sector, and every corner. The future is full of opportunities — just be ready to seize them.
Never forget:
“Your qualification is not your destination — it is your passport. The journey is yours to define.”
Let us rise, support each other, and build a strong CMA community that leads by example.
