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Making the Most of Accounting Magazines Journals

Use accounting magazines and journals to stay ahead of the game

By Terri Deno
Accounting publications target news items, innovations, and strategies to help accounting professionals better do their job. There are many accounting journals and accounting magazines that cater to all facets of the industry.

Everyone can benefit from the information in an accounting magazine, from students of accounting to the accounting expert. Making the most of accounting magazines journals will help you find ways to improve your accounting business, whether you are a CPA who works independently or for a large company.

How do you choose the right accounting magazine for you? First, look for accountant journals that cater to your specific needs. Whether it is a local publication, a magazine tailored to working with a specific group of clients, or just a general magazine to keep you in the loop, it is a minimal, if not free, investment. Here are some other things to consider:

1. The type of accounting an accounting publication covers, such as accounting for business, personal accounting, etc.

2. How often the publication is released.

3. Whether the publication offers directories to business contacts.

 

Choose an accounting journal that provides extras

Many accounting magazines and journals, like any other publication, offer additional resources and extra features whether in print or online to their subscribers. Even if you are not a subscriber to the publication, many journals have additional online resources for more information.
Try: The Journal of Financial Planning offer its "Between the Issues" publication that provides additional articles to subscribers through email. The Compass is a monthly e-zine provided to those who join the American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA).

Buy publications for accountants that provide access to research topics

All news and information starts from the basic research compiled by academics who are experts in the field of accounting. Browsing through some of these publications can give you a great advantage, as you'll stay on top of changes coming down the pipe. And if you need to research past accounting topics, subscriptions to academic journals will often get you free access to archives, either in print or online.
Try: The Journal of Accounting Research is a publication that will keep you informed about the latest industry developments. Auditing: A Journal of Practice and Theory is great for students of accounting, but also useful for experts looking to find new ideas to implement in their practices. Subscriptions to either of these journals gets you archival access.

Go with CPA publications that offer directories for contacting other professionals in the business

Many major accountancy magazines will offer a directory or classifieds section in the back of the publication. This is a great way to get into contact with organizations related to your accounting field, choose an accountant for your own personal finances, or advertise your company to others.
Try: The American Accounting Association includes directories and advertising in some of its publications, including The Accounting Review. AGN North America sends out newsletters on a regular basis, and provides article resources online. The organization also includes access to directories with membership.

 

  • Many accounting publications that are not magazines or journals can also be helpful. Professional papers, white papers, and even email newsletters offer information to keep your accounting business focused and successful.

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