In 2002, CPAs
watched with concern as the Enron and WorldCom scandals came to light,
casting a shadow on accounting. Fortunately, the state media was savvy
enough to know that the accounting profession in Wisconsin was not
related to these events. We have retained our good name—and, interest
in accounting is on the rise at colleges and universities.
How do students’
career decisions relate to the image of the CPA? Closely! Students
don’t necessarily reject accounting as a career choice, they simply
don’t know what CPAs do and who they are. In addition, despite some
strides, public misperceptions and ignorance about the importance of
CPAs persist.
While the WICPA
conducts a CPA-image advertising campaign each year, works to tell the
media about what you do, and has numerous career-awareness programs, the
WICPA can’t make an impact on the public image of CPAs without you.
The person who
reflects the image of CPAs is in the mirror every day. YOU can make a difference in
attracting people to the profession and giving all CPAs a good name.
And, you don’t have to go on national TV to do it, you can be a source
for your local newspaper, radio station or TV station.
It’s not
difficult! It’s simply a professional conversation focusing on what you
already know. When you think about the complexities that you work with
every day, talking to the media is a snap.
By working with
local reporters, you put a positive light on your employer, business,
institution, firm and entire economic sector.
