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

Finding Clarity After a Setback in Your Career: A Call to Action

Facing setbacks in our professional journey is something many of us experience at some point. As an Audit professional at a top-tier firm, I’ve recently encountered a pivotal moment in my career. This year, I was not promoted to the senior level—an outcome that, while disappointing, is contributing to my struggle to find a clear pathway forward in my field.

It’s important to acknowledge that I don’t entirely disagree with the decision. Upon reflection, I find that many of my colleagues possess a stronger command of their roles, demonstrating skills and efficiencies that I am still striving to develop. The demands of this position can be mentally challenging, and despite putting in substantial effort—often clocking in over 10 hours daily—I find myself unable to accomplish the expected workload, leading to burnout.

Compounding my concerns is the reality of working over 50 hours a week for a salary around $70,000. The effort required to perform well in such a high-pressure environment grows increasingly daunting, especially as I consider the potential for future advancement in public Accounting.

Adding to this complexity is the current trend within the industry. Many firms are reducing promotion opportunities and adjusting their hiring strategies, reflecting a broader uncertainty in the job market. As someone who holds a CPA credential but lacks extensive experience with public companies, I find myself at a crossroads. Am I better off continuing in my current role for another year or two, hoping for improvement? Or should I actively seek a transition into another area of Accounting or finance now?

This pivotal moment has prompted me to reflect deeply. The fear of stagnation is real, and I recognize the need to evaluate my options. Transitioning to a different role—even outside of public accounting—could present new growth opportunities. Meanwhile, staying put could allow me to refine my skills and gain valuable experience, albeit at a potentially slower pace.

As I navigate this challenging time, I remind myself that clarity will come with thoughtful contemplation and proactive planning. Whether I choose to remain in my current role or pursue new paths, what’s essential is that I approach my next steps with intention and resilience. For anyone feeling similarly stuck in their career journey, remember: exploration and patience are key to finding the right avenue forward.