When is the best time to leave public accounting?
When is the best time to leave public accounting?
The most common question I hear from individuals in public accounting is: “When is the best time to leave?” There are a variety of answers. Some people say, “Wait 2 years”, “Wait until you become a Senior”, or “Wait until you become a Manager.”
No Magic Number
There is no ‘magic number’ that, if you stay until, will produce the best results. My advice is that when it’s time for you to leave, you should leave public accounting. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to leave public accounting. No magic number out there will make you more successful in your career if you stay to that magic number.
You know when it is time to leave
If you are tired of the long hours and no longer enjoy your work, consider leaving public accounting. If you are no longer learning, consider leaving public accounting.
Trust your instincts and decide to leave when it suits you, not everyone else.
Make your own success
I know individuals who have left public accounting after 1 year and are very successful in their careers. I also know individuals who have left after 4 to 5 years in public accounting, and their careers have plateaued.
Make the decision and make your career happen. You determine your success, not some magic number.
Marketability of Public Accounting Background
You were smart. You went into public accounting. You have the most marketable background out there. Don’t wait around for some magic number to tell you that it’s time for you to leave.
Seek Career Advice and Opportunities
Please reach out or email to us if you have any questions or would like to know about current openings outside of public accounting. We always have clients looking for individuals with any level of public accounting experience.
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About The Resource Link
For almost two decades, The Resource Link has strategically placed Accounting, Finance, & Human Resource talent with some of the best companies in Arizona! We consult with our hiring managers and candidates to dive into the best solutions and outcomes and we provide advice and feedback along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or just pick up the phone! We would love to hear from you to help you build the best team or find the best career.
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