CPA's

Is now the time in your career when it is in your best interest to make a job change? If yes, how do you determine which opportunities may be best for you?

In general, the best way to answer these questions is to first ask yourself the questions frequently posed by career specialists:

Are you still challenged, rewarded and satisfied by your work?

Are you still growing, learning and developing?

As a public accountant, you should also ask yourself:

Do you intend to make a long-term commitment to public accounting?

Do you aspire to make Partner or one day open your own firm?

If not, then when is the best time to transition from public accounting to private industry?

As you ponder these questions, there are several logical milestones to keep in mind:

The optimal time to move (when you have the most leverage) is at the 2-4 year level for three reasons. First, you are eligible for certification if you have not already attained it. Second, assuming you have been exposed to quality mainstream clients, you bring the most value in terms of relevant experience versus cost to your new employer. Third, the relative demand is greatest.

As a Senior or Manager, while you have gained additional experience and added a management dimension to your marketability, the practical reality is that each successive step up the public accounting ladder begins to yield diminishing returns relative to experience gained versus cost and demand.

Be proactive as you approach these milestones. Position yourself for growth by aligning yourself with a specialist who is well connected and who is in touch with your parameters. Then give yourself an open window in which to explore select opportunities as they arise.

Remember, successful careers don't happen by chance. They are the result of well-informed, timely, strategic moves. When the timing is right, we look forward to hearing from you.