Professional Growth in Finance: A Diary-Based Reflection on Developing Technical, Analytical, and Communication Skills

Abstract

This thesis was written in the form of a diary, which describes the professional development of the author during an eight-week period at Aiven company, as a billing and accounting intern at the beginning, then later on was promoted to the Accounting Associate role. Aiven is a global technology company offering open-source managed data platforms. The writer joined the company in June 2025, and the observation period took place from September 1 to October 24, 2025. During this time the author worked full-time in the finance department. The diary entries were made weekly, and they included daily observations and weekly analysis. In the daily sections, the author described daily tasks and challenges she faced. Weekly analytical analysis allowed to reflect and relate observations to the theoretical connections.

The thesis focused on developing three key competencies: technical, analytical, and communication skills. Technical development was supported by daily activities in ERP and CRM systems. Analytical skills were strengthened through overdue invoice analysis, end-of-month closing and accounting tasks. Communication skills improved through collaboration with the international and external stakeholders.

During this period, the writer mainly engaged in basic billing activities such as bank statements processing and invoicing, customer payments processing, tracking overdue invoices, preparing reports and performing the end of the month tasks. In the middle of her internship, the writer was promoted to become an Accountant Associate. The writer began processing incoming and outgoing payments in all entities and gradually took part in more important accounting tasks. In addition to technical and analytical skills, the writer also focused on developing communication and teamwork in a changing international environment.

The observation period provided a valuable opportunity for the author to apply theoretical knowledge in real business environment as well as deepen the understanding of account receivables and accounting functions. The development goals of the author were been successfully achieved. The author has acquired stronger technical, analytical and communication skills. This experience has also increased the writer's confidence and willingness to take on broader responsibilities as an accountant in the future.