Have you ever accepted a job that you felt wasn’t within your qualifications?
I’ve just received an offer for a position in a corporate tax department that would bring my salary to $145k, plus a 12% bonus, with a two-day in-office requirement and a one-hour commute each way. The tax team consists of just two other people: a senior manager and a staff member. Currently, I’m earning $120k with a 5% bonus and working fully remotely. I have about ten years of tax experience and I’m a licensed CPA.
This new position would elevate my title to tax manager and introduce me to more responsibilities. The work appears significantly more engaging than my current role, and I would be involved in nearly every aspect of the return and provision. While I believe I could eventually handle the responsibilities, I’m anxious that my technical skills may not be up to par. During the interview, I made sure to be honest about my experience, acknowledging that there are certain tax areas I haven’t dealt with before and that it’s been a while since I’ve directly managed provisions.
This opportunity could greatly benefit both my family and my career. Nonetheless, I can’t shake the fear that I may fall short of their expectations. Has anyone here taken a role they felt underqualified for? What was your experience like?
One response
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about taking on a role that seems like a stretch, especially one with higher expectations and responsibilities. Many people have been in your shoes, and it can be a pivotal moment in your career.
The fact that you have a decade of tax experience and are an active CPA speaks volumes about your foundational knowledge and skills. It’s also a positive sign that you were honest during the interview process; this kind of transparency can help set realistic expectations and show that you recognize your own growth areas.
Transitioning to a new role, especially one with a step-up in title and responsibility, can be daunting, but it also can be incredibly rewarding. The extra compensation and the chance to work on more engaging projects can provide a significant boost to your career trajectory. Plus, being part of a smaller team means you’ll likely have more opportunities to learn directly from the senior manager and take on various tasks that can help you quickly close any knowledge gaps.
Many successful professionals have taken jobs they initially felt unqualified for and ended up thriving because of the challenges that pushed them to grow. Embrace the learning curve, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or clarification when needed. It’s likely that your new team will understand that you’re coming in with a desire to learn, which can foster a supportive environment.
If you decide to accept the offer, approach the role with a growth mindset. Set specific goals for yourself to improve your technical skills in the areas you feel weaker in, and consider seeking out resources or mentorship that can help you along the way. Best of luck with your decision!