Matthew's October Week 3 Reflection
Describe your main tasks this week. How did you approach the task? What did you accomplish? What did you learn?
This week, I worked with Aryan on the budgeting task, continued updating Gary’s list, and learned more about QuickBooks Online. When I was doing the budgeting task, Aryan and I collaborated to break down the work and ensure everything was done efficiently. We reviewed many websites then entered it into the google sheet to look for different prices of different items. I also spent time working through Gary’s list, filling it with accuracy and organization in mind. I also deepened my understanding of QuickBooks Online, exploring its functions and features to manage accounting tasks more effectively. Through these tasks, I accomplished better data management and report creation while strengthening my software skills. I learned the importance of precision, especially when dealing with financial information, and how teamwork can make complex tasks easier. Gaining familiarity with QuickBooks Online was particularly valuable, as it’s a key tool in the accounting industry.
What strategies do you have for staying on track during work and avoiding distractions when working in a virtual environment? What advice do you have for future co-ops?
To stay on track during work and avoid distractions in a virtual environment, I focus on setting clear goals for each day and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. I create a workspace free from distractions, silence notifications, and use productivity techniques like staying organized with to do lists and calendars to help me keep track of deadlines and priorities. Regular communication with my team also ensures I remain aligned and accountable. For future co-ops, I recommend developing a routine, staying proactive in communicating, and using tools that keep you organized and productive while working virtually.
How do you measure success in the workplace? What are some standards you have set and feedback you’ve gotten from teachers, supervisors, and coworkers that help guide you?
I measure success in the workplace by evaluating how well I meet my goals, the quality of the work I produce, and the impact it has on the team or organization. Success for me also includes consistently learning and improving in my role as an accounting assistant. Some standards I’ve set for myself include maintaining accuracy in tasks like budgeting or data entry, staying organized with deadlines, and communicating effectively with my supervisors and coworkers. Feedback from teachers and supervisors has emphasized the importance of attention to detail, especially in accounting tasks, and my partner has highlighted the value of teamwork and collaboration in achieving our shared goals. This feedback guides me by reminding me to stay focused on precision, be open to learning, and always work as a team.
What soft/hard skills do you feel most confident in, and where do you still need improvement?
I feel most confident in my communication and teamwork skills, which have helped me collaborate effectively with colleagues and share information clearly. In terms of hard skills, I’m gaining confidence in using QuickBooks Online and handling budgeting tasks with accuracy. However, I still need to improve my problem-solving under pressure, especially when dealing with unexpected challenges. Additionally, I aim to deepen my understanding of accounting principles and further develop my proficiency with industry-specific tools to stay competitive and advance in the field of accounting.