When can I expect to find a job in public Accounting?
I graduated from college in August and completed an internship at a private company from the summer through January. During this time, I realized that gaining public Accounting experience would be beneficial for my future career opportunities. However, I graduated with a GPA of 2.7 (even lower in accounting), which has made me feel uncertain about landing a position at one of the Big 4 firms.
I started searching for public Accounting jobs in January, but the opportunities seem limited. Could this be related to the busy season? I had a phone interview for an Audit position, and the recruiter seemed positive about my fit, even mentioning the possibility of an interview with the hiring manager. Unfortunately, I haven’t heard back in almost two weeks. Is this delay also due to the busy season and the demands on recruiters?
I understand that fall is typically the best time to secure a job in public accounting, but will hiring activity increase once busy season wraps up?
I’ve had a few interviews for positions in the private sector, but I’m certain that public accounting is the path I want to pursue right now. I don’t want to wait too long to break into the public sector, and I am eager to start working towards my CPA as soon as possible.
One response
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a transitional phase, and it’s completely understandable to feel uncertain about your next steps. The timing you’re experiencing could very well be influenced by busy season, especially in public Accounting, where firms often prioritize their immediate workload over recruitment. It’s common for candidates to experience delays in the hiring process during these peak times.
Given that you’ve already made it to the phone screen stage and that the recruiter seemed positive, that’s a good sign! Keep in mind that the hiring process can be slow, especially during busy periods when teams are stretched thin. It’s not uncommon for candidates to wait several weeks for updates after interviews.
After busy season typically ends, many firms start to ramp up recruitment efforts again. Therefore, it’s wise to stay proactive. Keep applying to positions you’re interested in, even if they’re not all in public Accounting, and maintain connections with recruiters.
It’s also great that you’re considering taking the CPA. Having that on your resume, along with relevant experience, could boost your confidence and job prospects in the public sector down the line.
In the meantime, don’t hesitate to explore ways to improve your resume, such as taking additional courses or certifications to enhance your skills. This could make you a more competitive candidate when public Accounting positions become available again.
Remember, the right opportunity may take time to find, but staying persistent and proactive is key. Best of luck!