Becoming commercially aware is something that all graduates, regardless of degree, can achieve. But what is commercial awareness?
ACCA has developed a series of articles and podcasts that focus on the elements that make up commercial awareness and how to apply this to the different sectors. In each podcast we explore the tools you need to use to understand and develop your knowledge. You can then take these tools away and apply them to the organisations you are interested in working for.
Commercial Awareness - an Introduction 
Commercial Awareness in Public Practice
Commercial Awareness in the Corporate Sector
Commercial Awareness in Financial Services
Commercial Awareness in the Public Sector
The first podcast is an introduction to commercial awareness and is followed by four other podcasts focusing on the different sectors: Public Practice, the Corporate Sector, Financial Services and the Public Sector. Along with each podcast you'll find supporting documents that explore in-depth some of the issues raised in the podcast.
There are so many different definitions of what commercial awareness but in simple terms it is about looking at a situation from a commercial or business perspective. When you go to interviews or assessment centres, employers want to test your knowledge on a range of things including the job you are applying for, the organisation and its operations, the business sectors and competitors that operate within it, and your general understanding of the business environment.
Not only is it important from an employers perspective that you are commercially aware, but it can also help you understand more about the type of career you want to embark on and the kinds of organisations you want to work for.
If you have any feedback about these podcasts please email studentpromotions@accaglobal.com