After you identify the employers you would like to work for, you should familiarize yourself with all aspects of the company's business -- products, executives, clients, partners, current and historical financial standing and industry ranking. Also, investigate opportunities for career advancement. Does the organization promote from within? Does it offer mentoring or other professional development programs? And don't overlook issues such as the overall corporate culture, compensation and benefit programs or other important areas that will have a bearing on how you approach the interview

Much of this information is available in local business journals and daily newspapers. Research and be prepared to discuss current events and issues affecting the firm, as well as any recent significant accomplishments or challenges.

Also, review accounting industry publications and identify articles featuring the company you would like to work for. You will become more knowledgeable about current trends in the field, and the information you gather will help you tailor your resume and cover letter for that specific employer.

Finally, utilize all the people in your professional network (if you are student talk to your accounting professors) to see if someone you know has worked with the organization or has information about it. Doing your homework will also help you develop insightful questions for interviews, which will demonstrate your familiarity and interest in the business.

ACCOUNTEMPS is a specialized temporary staffing service for accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals. Accountemps provides support throughout an accounting department. Headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., Accountemps and has more than 270 offices in North America, Europe and Australia. Accountemps' Career Counselor column, a SmartPros staple for over four years, is refreshed twice a month.