FOOD FOR THOUGHT

So you’ve accepted a new CA job, and now it is time to hand in your notice. Understandably, this is a rather intimidating time for any individual. And of course there is always the worry that taking this step could have a negative impact on your career – particularly if you work for a big firm where there are senior team members who are highly respected amongst the industry. 

Some people see flat management structures as simply offering limited opportunities for career advancement. Not true. Just because many smaller CA firms aren’t structured around a rigid arrangement of job titles, doesn’t mean that your career aspirations have to take a back seat.

You’ve been working for a CA firm for a while and achieving well. You have mastered your current level of BAS experience and are excited about the prospect on taking on more responsibilities with a move up in your career – you know you’re ready for it. But it can’t happen.

The grass isn’t always greener on the other side – but if you don’t pop your head over the fence to have a look, how will you ever actually know? Yes, it’s a cheesy analogy, but it really is relevant when it comes to understanding whether your current employer is actually providing the best place to work.

It is pretty much expected that the life of a CA accountant is more than just an 8 to 5 job. Clients are the number one priority, and their deadlines are always following very close behind. 

When you are on the lookout for a new accounting job, it isn’t just about firing out your CV to any accountancy firm that is looking for someone with your experience. You need to plan, prepare and do your due diligence to ensure the move is in the right direction, at the right firm.

Keen to know how other Chartered Accountants have moved through their careers? Meet the team at Bellingham Wallace. Today we speak to Ash Clarke - one of our Business Advisory Managers.  

Have you ever wondered "what am I missing out on by staying at a Big 4 CA firm long term?" It might have been the right choice at the start of your career, but what if your goals have changed, or the culture no longer aligns with what is important to you?    

So you have been working for a CA firm for a few years (or maybe even longer than that) but now you are starting to wonder whether if it is really the right firm for you.

When it comes to CA firms, no practice is exactly the same as the next, however it is possible to segment them according to a different aspects. Size is usually the first identifiable feature of a firm – whether single partner practice, small boutique, mid-tier or Big 4.