Why do people in Accounting forums seem to be so unfriendly?
Lately, while browsing the big4 and r/Accounting subreddits, I’ve noticed a troubling trend that doesn’t seem to exist in other professional communities. The atmosphere in accounting-related subreddits often feels negative and harsh. For instance, when a young professional shares their disappointment about not receiving a return offer, they often face an overwhelming wave of criticism. Comments like “You just weren’t good enough” and “You didn’t make the cut, you’re just a low performer” are all too common.
This isn’t an isolated incident—there are numerous examples where individuals face harsh judgment when they try to express their struggles. If someone decides against working at a big4 firm due to a toxic environment, they’re often met with responses like, “Then you better be ready to work twice as hard. I learned so much at big4, so it’s better to stick it out for two years, even in a toxic workplace.”
In contrast, other subreddits seem much more supportive. Many professionals in fields like computer science or engineering encourage each other, while in Accounting, it feels like we tear each other down. If someone posts about losing their job, they often get bombarded with questions like, “What did you do to cause this?” or “Are you sure you did your job right?” Some even come across as more loyal to their companies than to their peers, which creates a really negative environment. If we want to see a change in our profession, we need to foster support instead of constantly criticizing one another.
Finally, if we want to attract more young talent to this field, it’s important to show them kindness and understanding. There’s no reason to belittle newcomers just because you have more experience.
EDIT: And please, let’s not blame it on busy season. I’ve seen these comments long before that time, around late 2024 and early 2025.
One response
You’ve raised some valid concerns about the culture within Accounting subreddits, especially when compared to other professional communities. It’s disheartening to see people tearing each other down instead of offering support and encouragement, particularly in such a demanding field like Accounting.
From my perspective, a few factors might contribute to this negativity:
High Stress Levels: The nature of Accounting, especially in firms like the Big 4, involves significant stress and long hours. This can lead to a culture where individuals feel the need to project toughness or superiority as a defense mechanism. They may believe that harsh criticism is a way to prepare newcomers for the harsh realities of the job.
Competitive Environment: Accounting is a competitive field, and the pressure to perform can create an atmosphere of scarcity where individuals feel that they must fight to prove their worth. This competitiveness can manifest as a lack of empathy for those who are struggling.
Traditional Mindset: Many professionals in accounting come from a background where the “sink or swim” mentality is prevalent. This encourages an environment where individuals are expected to toughen up and figure things out on their own rather than seeking help from colleagues.
Lack of Support Structures: Unlike some other industries, accounting can sometimes lack strong mentorship programs or supportive networks. This absence can lead to a more solitary experience, causing individuals to feel isolated and, in turn, lash out at others.
Burnout and Disillusionment: Those who have been in the industry for a while may be feeling burnt out or disenchanted with their career paths. This can translate into a tendency to discourage newcomers rather than uplift them, perpetuating a cycle of negativity.
It’s clear that fostering a more supportive community could benefit everyone in the profession. Encouraging open discussions about challenges while also promoting a culture of support can help change the tone of these subreddits. By uplifting one another, we can address the real issues in the industry and create a healthier environment for both current accountants and those entering the field. It’s essential for experienced professionals to remember the challenges they faced early in their careers and to be more compassionate towards the next generation. Thank you for bringing attention to this important issue!