1. What are the core responsibilities of a financial operations professional?

The core responsibilities of a financial operations professional include:

1. Managing and monitoring financial transactions: This includes overseeing the flow of money in and out of the organization, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in financial processes.

2. Budget planning and analysis: Financial operations professionals are responsible for creating budgets, analyzing financial data, and making recommendations for improving financial performance.

3. Financial reporting: They are in charge of preparing financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to track the organization’s financial health.

4. Internal controls: Financial operations professionals develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure internal controls are in place to prevent fraud or errors in financial transactions.

5. Cash management: This involves managing the company’s cash flow, forecasting future cash needs, and optimizing investment opportunities.

6. Compliance: They ensure that all financial processes are compliant with relevant regulations and laws.

7. Risk management: Financial operations professionals assess potential risks facing the organization’s finances and develop strategies to mitigate them.

8. Liaising with stakeholders: They communicate with internal departments, external partners, investors, and auditors to provide updates on financial performance.

9. Improving efficiency: By identifying areas for improvement in financial processes, they help streamline operations and reduce costs for the organization.

10. Strategic planning: Financial operations professionals play a crucial role in setting long-term financial goals for the organization and developing plans to achieve them.

2. How important is knowledge of financial regulations in this career path?

Knowledge of financial regulations is very important in this career path. Financial regulations play a crucial role in how the financial industry operates and affects the strategies and decisions made by individuals and companies working in this field. Individuals who are knowledgeable and well-versed in financial regulations will be better equipped to navigate complex financial transactions, comply with regulatory requirements, and mitigate potential risks for themselves and their clients. Without a strong understanding of financial regulations, individuals may face serious consequences such as legal action or penalties for non-compliance, which can greatly impact their career progression and success. In addition, staying up-to-date with changing financial regulations is essential for maintaining relevancy and competitiveness in the industry.

3. Are there any specific certifications or qualifications that can advance a career in financial operations?

The following certifications and qualifications can help advance a career in financial operations:

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – This certification is widely recognized as the most prestigious and highly regarded in the field of accounting. It demonstrates a high level of expertise and knowledge in financial operations.

2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA) – This certification is designed for professionals who work in management accounting and financial management roles. CMA certification shows proficiency in areas such as strategic planning, cost management, and financial analysis.

3. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – This certification is considered the gold standard for investment professionals, with a focus on portfolio management, asset allocation, and investment analysis.

4. Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) – This designation is for individuals who specialize in treasury management, including cash and liquidity management, risk management, and corporate finance.

5. Financial Risk Manager (FRM) – This certification focuses on managing financial risks, including credit risk, market risk, operational risk, and other types of financial risk.

6. Six Sigma Certification – Six Sigma is a methodology used to improve business processes by reducing defects or errors. Having a Six Sigma certification can show employers that you have skills in process improvement and efficiency.

7. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance or Accounting- While not a requirement for all positions in financial operations, having an advanced degree can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to advance your career.

8. Continuous education- Keeping up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and best practices through continuing education courses or professional development opportunities can also demonstrate commitment to your field and help advance your career in financial operations.

4. What types of industries or organizations typically hire financial operations professionals?

1. Financial institutions, such as banks, credit unions, and financial management firms.
2. Accounting and consulting firms.
3. Government agencies and organizations, including the Treasury Department, Federal Reserve, and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
4. Insurance companies.
5. Investment banks and other financial services companies.
6. Nonprofit organizations.
7. Retail companies and e-commerce websites.
8. Technology companies focused on finance or fintech (financial technology).
9. Pharmaceutical and healthcare companies.
10. Real estate firms and property management companies.

5. In terms of career growth, what are the typical roles and titles for someone in this field?

In the field of marketing, typical roles and titles for career growth include:

1. Marketing Coordinator/Assistant: An entry-level position that assists with various marketing tasks such as campaign planning, research, and administrative tasks.

2. Marketing Specialist: A mid-level position that focuses on a specific area of marketing such as social media, content creation, or email marketing.

3. Marketing Manager: Responsible for overseeing all marketing campaigns and strategies, managing a team of specialists, and reporting to upper management.

4. Senior Marketing Manager/Director: In charge of developing overall marketing strategies for the company and leading a team of managers and specialists.

5. Vice President of Marketing/Chief Marketing Officer (CMO): A high-level executive responsible for creating long-term strategic plans and overseeing all marketing activities within the company.

6. Brand Manager: Responsible for building and maintaining the brand image through advertising campaigns, customer experiences, and product development.

7. Digital Marketing Manager: Oversees all digital marketing efforts including website optimization, online advertising, social media management, SEO/SEM strategies, etc.

8. Product Manager: Handles the development and launch of new products or services by conducting market research, creating pricing strategies, and implementing product launches.

9. Market Research Analyst: Collects data on market trends and consumer behavior to help companies make informed decisions about their marketing strategies.

10. Account Executive: Works closely with clients to understand their needs and develop marketing campaigns that meet their goals.

6. Are there opportunities to specialize or focus on certain aspects of financial operations?

Yes, there are many opportunities to specialize or focus on certain aspects of financial operations. Some examples include:

1. Accounting: This involves keeping track of a company’s financial transactions and producing financial statements for decision-making.

2. Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A): This involves analyzing financial data to forecast future performance and make strategic business decisions.

3. Treasury: This involves managing a company’s cash flow, investments, and relationships with banks and other financial institutions.

4. Taxation: This involves understanding and complying with tax laws, as well as minimizing tax liabilities for the company.

5. Risk Management: This involves identifying potential risks to the company’s financial health and implementing strategies to mitigate them.

6. Audit: This involves ensuring the accuracy and reliability of a company’s financial statements through independent reviews.

7. Compliance: This involves ensuring that the company adheres to relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards in its financial operations.

8. Financial Systems Implementation: This involves implementing and maintaining software systems that support financial operations, such as accounting software or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

9. Cost Management: This involves analyzing costs within the organization to identify areas for cost savings or optimization.

10. Financial Reporting: This involves preparing regular reports on the company’s financial performance for internal stakeholders and external parties such as investors or regulators.

11. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): This involves evaluating potential merger or acquisition opportunities and managing the financial aspects of these transactions.

12. International Finance: This involves managing the financial operations of a multinational corporation, including navigating different currencies, tax laws, and regulatory environments.

7. How do technological advancements impact the daily work of someone in financial operations?

1. Automation of Processes: With the introduction of advanced software applications and tools, many financial operations processes have been automated. This has led to increased efficiency, reduced errors and faster completion of tasks.

2. Real-Time Data Processing: Technological advancements in financial operations have enabled real-time data processing, allowing for quick decision making. This has resulted in improved accuracy and faster response times to changing market conditions.

3. Electronic Transactions: The increasing use of electronic transactions such as online banking, wire transfers and electronic invoicing has simplified the process of receiving and sending payments, reducing the need for manual handling and paperwork.

4. Cloud Computing: By storing financial data on secure cloud servers, financial operations professionals can access information from anywhere at any time. This allows for greater flexibility in managing tasks and collaborating with team members across multiple locations.

5. Data Analytics: With the use of advanced analytical tools, financial operations professionals can gather and analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns, trends, and potential risks. This helps in better decision making and strategic planning.

6. Improved Security Measures: Advancements in cybersecurity have helped to protect sensitive financial information from cyber threats such as hacking and fraud. This has made it safer for financial operations professionals to conduct their daily work without the fear of compromising confidential data.

7. Mobile Applications: Many banks and financial institutions now offer mobile applications that allow individuals to view their accounts, make payments, transfer funds, and perform other essential tasks on-the-go. This makes it easier for finance professionals to manage their work even when they are not in the office.

8. Artificial Intelligence (AI): The use of AI has transformed many aspects of financial operations by automating routine tasks such as data entry, document processing, risk assessment, and fraud detection. It also enables more accurate forecasting and helps in identifying potential cost-saving opportunities.

9. Improved Collaboration: Technological advancements have also facilitated better collaboration between finance teams through the use of online project management tools, shared databases, and virtual meetings. This has resulted in improved communication, increased productivity, and streamlined processes.

10. Cost Savings: With the help of technology, financial operations professionals can perform tasks more efficiently and accurately, reducing the need for manual labor. This has resulted in cost savings for organizations and has also allowed finance teams to focus on more value-added activities.

8. Is a strong background in accounting necessary for success in this career path?

Yes, a strong background in accounting is necessary for success in this career path. Tax professionals are required to have a solid understanding of tax laws, regulations, and accounting principles. They may also be responsible for preparing financial statements, analyzing financial data, and providing clients with strategic tax planning advice and guidance. Therefore, a thorough understanding of accounting is essential for accurately assessing client needs and developing successful tax strategies. Without this foundation, it would be challenging to excel in the field of taxation.

9. How does communication play a role in financial operations, both internally and with external partners?

Communication is crucial in financial operations, both internally and with external partners. Here are some ways it plays a role:

1. Internal communication: In any organization, effective internal communication is key to the success of financial operations. This includes clear and timely communication between different departments and teams involved in financial processes such as accounting, budgeting, and forecasting. Effective communication can help ensure that all team members are on the same page, avoid misunderstandings, and improve overall efficiency.

2. Coordination with other departments: Financial operations do not exist in isolation; they rely on inputs from other departments such as sales and marketing, human resources, and procurement. Good communication between finance and these departments is essential for accurate and timely financial reporting.

3. Decision-making: Effective communication allows for better decision-making when it comes to financial operations. By sharing information and data across different levels of the organization, leaders can make informed decisions about budgeting, investments, and resource allocation.

4. External partnerships: Businesses often need to collaborate with external partners such as vendors, suppliers, investors, or clients for their financial operations. Clear and transparent communication with these stakeholders is crucial for building trust and maintaining healthy working relationships. It also helps in negotiating favorable terms and ensuring timely payments.

5. Compliance: Communication is important when it comes to complying with regulatory requirements related to financial operations. For example, companies need to communicate accurate financial data to government agencies and auditors to comply with tax laws or meet reporting obligations.

6. Managing risks: Communication plays a crucial role in identifying potential risks related to financial operations and implementing measures to mitigate them. Timely communication of any potential problems or discrepancies can help minimize losses or prevent fraud.

In conclusion, good communication between different teams within an organization as well as with external partners ensures smooth financial operations and supports growth opportunities for businesses.

10 . Is experience working with different software programs important for navigating financial operations systems?

Experience working with different software programs can be helpful for navigating financial operations systems, as many financial operations systems rely on specialized software to track and manage financial transactions. Having experience working with different software programs can make it easier to adapt to and navigate the specific software used in a particular financial operations system. It can also help individuals troubleshoot any issues that may arise with the software and ensure efficient use of the system. Ultimately, while experience working with different software programs may not be essential, it can certainly be beneficial for someone working in financial operations.

11. What skills, other than technical knowledge, are essential for succeeding in this field?

1. Communication: Effective communication skills are essential in any field, including the technical industry. This includes being able to clearly convey ideas and instructions, listen actively, and collaborate with team members.

2. Problem-solving: The ability to identify problems, analyze data, and propose innovative solutions is crucial in the rapidly-evolving technical field.

3. Adaptability: Technology is constantly changing, so it’s essential to be able to adapt quickly and learn new skills as needed.

4. Attention to detail: In the tech industry, even small mistakes can have significant consequences. Having strong attention to detail can help ensure accuracy and avoid errors.

5. Time management: With tight deadlines and project timelines, time management skills are vital for success in the technical field.

6. Creative thinking: Being able to think outside of the box and come up with unique solutions is essential in a highly competitive industry like technology.

7. Collaboration: Teamwork is often required in technical projects, so being able to work collaboratively with others is crucial for success.

8. Analytical thinking: The ability to collect and analyze data is important for evaluating potential solutions or identifying trends in technology.

9. Leadership: Possessing leadership skills can help you advance in your career as a manager or team leader in the technical field.

10. Customer service: Whether working with internal or external clients, having strong customer service skills helps build relationships and satisfaction with your work.

11. Continuous learning mindset: As technology advances at a rapid pace, it’s crucial to have a growth mindset and continually seek out opportunities for learning and development in order to stay current and relevant in your field.

12. How much do interpersonal skills contribute to advancement opportunities within financial operations?

Interpersonal skills play a significant role in advancing opportunities within financial operations. While technical skills and relevant experience are important, strong interpersonal skills can set individuals apart and help them excel in their careers. In the financial industry, communication, collaboration, and relationship-building are crucial for success.

Here are some specific ways that interpersonal skills contribute to advancement opportunities in financial operations:

1. Relationship building: Building strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and superiors is essential in the financial industry. Interpersonal skills such as empathy and active listening can help professionals create positive connections with others and establish trust. This can lead to better teamwork, increased collaboration, and ultimately more opportunities for advancement.

2. Effective communication: Communication is one of the most critical soft skills needed in any job, especially in financial operations. Professionals need to be able to articulate complex financial information clearly and concisely to various audiences – from coworkers to executives. Those who possess strong communication skills are often viewed as dependable and effective leaders – qualities that employers look for when considering candidates for promotions.

3. Conflict management: In any industry, conflicts may arise between team members or with clients. Financial professionals need to have the ability to navigate these situations diplomatically while finding solutions that benefit all parties involved. Individuals who demonstrate exceptional conflict resolution skills are highly valued in the workplace and can earn recognition through promotions or salary increases.

4. Leadership potential: Interpersonal skills also tie into leadership capabilities. Employers seek out individuals who show strong leadership potential when promoting employees into higher roles within a company’s hierarchy. Candidates with excellent interpersonal skills tend to possess qualities such as empathy, emotional intelligence, confidence, resilience – all of which make for effective leaders.

5. Networking: Networking is an essential aspect of career progress – both internally within a company and externally within the industry. Professionals with good interpersonal skills find it easier to network effectively because they can connect well with colleagues inside their organization or while interacting with clients, partners, or other industry professionals. This can open up new career opportunities through referrals and recommendations.

In summary, interpersonal skills are highly valued in financial operations because they improve an individual’s ability to work collaboratively and effectively with others. These skills are crucial for establishing strong working relationships and making a positive impact within an organization, all of which contribute significantly to advancement opportunities in the financial industry.

13. Can you provide examples of how cost-cutting measures are implemented by financial operations professionals?

1. Streamlining Processes: Financial operations professionals can implement cost-cutting measures by streamlining processes within the organization. This includes identifying and eliminating unnecessary steps, automating tasks, and setting up efficient workflows to reduce manual effort and save time and resources.

2. Negotiating Vendor Contracts: Financial operations professionals can negotiate with vendors to secure better prices or discounts for goods and services, resulting in cost savings for the company.

3. Implementing Technology Solutions: By implementing technology solutions such as expense management systems, automated billing software, or online payment systems, financial operations professionals can optimize processes and reduce costs associated with paper-based transactions.

4. Conducting Cost Analysis: Conducting a thorough cost analysis can help identify areas where expenses can be cut without compromising on the quality of products or services. Financial operations professionals can then take action to reduce these costs.

5. Controlling Inventory Costs: By closely monitoring inventory levels and negotiating better deals with suppliers, financial operations professionals can help reduce inventory costs for the company.

6. Restructuring Debt: Financial operations professionals can work with lenders to restructure debt payments, lower interest rates, or consolidate loans to improve cash flow and save on interest expenses.

7. Outsourcing Non-Core Functions: Companies can save money by outsourcing non-core functions such as accounting, payroll processing, or IT support to third-party service providers that specialize in these areas.

8. Instituting Cost-Conscious Culture: By promoting a cost-conscious culture within the organization, financial operations professionals can encourage employees at all levels to contribute ideas for reducing expenses and fostering a more efficient use of resources.

9. Cutting Unnecessary Expenses: This may include eliminating perks that are not critical to business operations such as expensive office supplies or travel expenses that do not directly contribute to revenue generation.

10. Encouraging Energy Efficiency Measures: Implementing energy efficiency measures such as using LED lighting, turning off equipment when not in use, or monitoring energy usage can result in significant cost savings over time.

11. Utilizing Bulk Buying Power: Financial operations professionals can use the company’s bulk buying power to negotiate better prices for supplies and equipment from vendors.

12. Implementing Cost Control Measures: By implementing cost control measures such as budgeting, expense tracking, and variance analysis, financial operations professionals can identify areas of overspending and take corrective action to reduce costs.

13. Promoting Telecommuting: With advances in technology and communication tools, telecommuting has become a popular option for businesses to save on office space and related expenses. Financial operations professionals can promote this option to cut down on real estate costs.

14. How do risk management and compliance factor into the work of someone in this role?

Risk management and compliance are essential components of this role because a financial analyst needs to assess and mitigate potential risks that may affect the company’s financial health. This involves conducting detailed research and analysis on market trends, regulations, and industry standards to identify potential risks and create strategies to manage or avoid them. Financial analysts also need to ensure that their recommendations comply with relevant laws, policies, and procedures set by regulatory bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Compliance is crucial in maintaining the trust of investors, stakeholders, and regulators while also protecting the company’s reputation and financial stability.

15. Are there international opportunities available for those pursuing a career in financial operations?

Yes, there are many international opportunities available for those pursuing a career in financial operations. Many multinational companies have finance and accounting departments that operate globally, providing opportunities for professionals to work in different countries and gain international experience. In addition, with the increasing globalization of business, there is a growing demand for financial professionals who have expertise in international markets and regulations. This can include roles such as international finance manager, foreign exchange analyst, or global tax specialist. Networking, building a strong resume and developing language skills can help individuals secure these types of international opportunities in the field of financial operations.

16. Can you highlight any ethical considerations that may arise in this line of work?

There are several ethical considerations that may arise in this line of work:

1. Confidentiality: As a glass artist, you may have access to personal information about your clients, such as their photographs or specific requests for custom pieces. It is important to respect the confidentiality of this information and only use it with the client’s permission.

2. Use of environmentally-friendly materials: Glass art often involves working with various chemicals and materials that can have negative effects on the environment. As a responsible artist, it is important to consider the environmental impact of your work and choose sustainable and eco-friendly materials whenever possible.

3. Copyright infringement: When creating custom pieces for clients, there may be instances where they request designs that are copyrighted by someone else. In such cases, it is important to ensure that proper permissions have been obtained or to create original designs inspired by the copyrighted material.

4. Appropriation of culture or cultural symbols: Glass art can often be influenced by various cultures and traditions. It is important to consider the cultural significance of these symbols and avoid appropriating them without proper understanding or permission.

5. Honesty in pricing: There may be instances where clients request custom pieces but are not fully aware of the time, effort, and cost involved in creating them. It is important to clearly communicate your pricing structure and any additional costs involved in order to maintain transparency with your clients.

6. Quality of work: As an artist, it is important to maintain high ethical standards when creating artwork for clients. This includes ensuring the quality of your work meets or exceeds expectations and being honest about any limitations or flaws in the work.

7. Proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials: When working with glass, you may come into contact with hazardous materials such as lead or mercury. It is essential to handle these substances safely according to industry standards and dispose of them properly when no longer needed.

8. Conflict of interest: If you are creating commissioned pieces for clients, it is important to avoid any conflicts of interest that may arise with other clients or projects. This could include working with competitors or using similar designs on different projects.

9. Treatment of assistants or apprentices: As a glass artist, you may have assistants or apprentices who help with your work. It is important to treat these individuals ethically and fairly, providing proper credit and compensation for their contributions.

10. Honoring agreements and contracts: In order to maintain trust and professionalism, it is important to honor any agreements or contracts made with clients regarding the creation of their artwork. This includes meeting deadlines, delivering the agreed-upon product, and respecting any copyright permissions.

17. Is continuing education important for staying current and relevant in the world of finance and business operations?

Yes, continuing education is crucial for staying current and relevant in the world of finance and business operations. The financial landscape is constantly evolving and new technologies, techniques, and regulations are being introduced regularly. Continuing education allows professionals to update their skills, knowledge, and expertise to adapt to these changes.

In addition, staying current with industry trends and developments is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the job market. Employers value employees who are proactive in learning new skills and staying updated on industry changes.

Moreover, continuing education can also provide networking opportunities with other professionals in the field. This can lead to potential collaborations, career advancement opportunities, and access to industry insights and best practices.

Overall, continuing education is important for enhancing one’s expertise, remaining competitive in the job market, and networking with peers in the field. It shows dedication to personal growth and development, which is highly valued in the world of finance and business operations.

18 . In what ways do external factors such as economic trends or regulatory changes impact daily tasks and decision-making within this field?

External factors such as economic trends or regulatory changes can have a significant impact on daily tasks and decision-making within a field. Some examples include:

1. Budget constraints: Economic trends can affect the availability of funding for projects or programs within the field. This can impact the resources and personnel available to carry out tasks, making it necessary to adjust plans and priorities.

2. Market demand: Changes in consumer preferences or market demand can also influence decisions within the field. For example, if there is an increased demand for sustainable products, companies may need to adjust their production processes or marketing strategies accordingly.

3. Technological advancements: Technological advancements can greatly impact decision-making within a field. These advancements might require new skills or training for employees, changes in processes or procedures, and investment in new equipment or software.

4. Government regulations: Regulatory changes can require businesses to comply with new laws or standards, which may require adjustments to operations and processes. This could include things like environmental regulations, safety standards, or data privacy laws.

5. Global events: Political instability, natural disasters, and other global events can disrupt supply chains and affect production and distribution of goods and services within a field. This requires flexibility in decision-making to address these challenges.

6. Competitive landscape: Changes in the competitive landscape can also influence daily tasks and decisions within a field. For example, if a new competitor enters the market with a lower-priced product, companies may need to adjust their pricing strategy to remain competitive.

7. Consumer behavior: Changes in consumer behavior can impact sales and revenue for businesses within the field, requiring them to adapt marketing strategies and product offerings accordingly.

Overall, external factors play a significant role in shaping daily tasks and decision-making within a field by creating opportunities as well as challenges that must be addressed in order to succeed.

19 . Can someone with a background outside of finance enter into a career in financial operations, or is previous experience necessary?

It is possible for someone with a background outside of finance to enter into a career in financial operations, but previous experience and knowledge, particularly in basic accounting principles, is often necessary. Many employers prefer candidates who have a degree or formal training in finance, accounting, or business administration. However, some companies may be willing to hire and train candidates with transferable skills, such as strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and proficiency in technology and data analysis. It may also be helpful for individuals interested in entering the field to pursue additional education or certifications related to financial operations.

20 . What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career path in business and financial operations?

1. Research different career options: Business and financial operations is a broad field with various career paths such as accounting, human resources, marketing, and operations management. Spend some time researching the roles that interest you and learn more about their responsibilities, required skills, and potential growth opportunities.

2. Develop relevant skills: To succeed in this field, you need to have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, communication skills, and business acumen. Consider taking courses or gaining experience in areas such as finance, economics, statistics, and data analysis.

3. Gain practical experience: Employers highly value candidates with practical experience. Look for internships or part-time jobs in related fields to gain hands-on experience and build your resume.

4. Network: Building relationships with professionals in the industry can help you learn about job opportunities and get valuable advice on how to succeed in your chosen career path. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with alumni from your college or university.

5. Continuously learn: The business world is constantly evolving; therefore it is important to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. Consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications to enhance your knowledge and remain competitive in the job market.

6. Develop strong financial skills: A good understanding of financial concepts such as budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and risk management is crucial for success in this field.

7. Be open to starting at entry-level positions: It is common for individuals to start their careers at entry-level positions within a company before moving up the ladder. Be open to these opportunities as they can provide valuable learning experiences and help you establish yourself within the organization.

8. Demonstrate a strong work ethic: Business and financial operations can be demanding roles that require hard work and dedication. Show employers that you are motivated by taking initiative on projects or tackling difficult tasks with enthusiasm.

9. Cultivate soft skills: In addition to technical skills, possessing strong soft skills such as teamwork, time management, adaptability, and leadership can greatly benefit your career in business and financial operations.

10. Stay up-to-date on industry news: Subscribe to industry publications, follow influential professionals on social media, and attend conferences to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your field. This will not only expand your knowledge but also show potential employers that you are committed to your career.