Wasn’t promoted to senior – struggling to see a path forward in this field.

Navigating Career Setbacks in Public Accounting: Finding Your Path Forward

Recently, I encountered a significant setback in my professional journey as an auditor at one of the top 10 firms. This year, I was not promoted to the senior position, which is a setback that has left me feeling somewhat disheartened. While I can understand the rationale behind the decision—my colleagues seem to have a more solid grasp of their roles—I’m left grappling with the reality of my current situation.

The demands of this job are undeniably taxing. Despite my dedication, often clocking in over ten hours a day, I find that my output doesn’t always match the effort I put in. As a result, I sometimes end up working longer hours just to stay afloat. Earning around $70,000 while consistently exceeding 50-hour weeks raises questions about work-life balance and long-term fulfillment in my career.

The current landscape across our firm reflects a broader trend: a tightening job market. Promotions and new hires are increasingly rare, a pattern I’ve observed in various organizations. Furthermore, while I have earned my CPA, I feel I lack the practical experience necessary to stand out as a desirable candidate for new opportunities, especially in public companies where my exposure is minimal.

This situation poses a difficult choice: Should I continue to persevere in my current role for another year or two, hoping to eventually find a clearer path up the career ladder? Or is it time to consider a transition into a different area of the industry, despite the apparent risks?

As I navigate these uncertainties, I’m reminded of the importance of reflection and career planning. Engaging in thoughtful analysis of my current position and the skills I need to cultivate could illuminate potential paths forward, whether it means staying put for a while longer or taking a leap into a new field. Embracing this stage of my career—albeit challenging—could ultimately lead to growth and new opportunities.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, I encourage you to evaluate your options carefully. The journey may be tough, but each decision can shape your future in meaningful ways.