The most common question I hear from individuals in public accounting is, “When is the best time to leave?” There are a variety of opinions out there. Some will tell you 2 years, or wait till you make Senior, or wait till you make manager, and so on and so on.

I advise you to “leave when it’s time for you to leave.” This is when you should leave public accounting.

If you’re tired of the hours, or if you’re not enjoying public accounting anymore, then leave.

No magic number out there will make you more successful in your career if you stay in public until that magic number. 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 career has plateaued.

It’s time for you to leave if you’re no longer enjoying public accounting or if you’re no longer learning. That is the time to leave.

You were smart. You went into public accounting. You have the most marketable background out there. Don’t wait for some magic number to tell you that it’s time to leave. You know when the time is right by how you feel. Go ahead, make the decision, and make your career happen.

Please reach out if you have questions about current openings or are looking for career advice.