I just experienced my first layoff from an Accounting job. I spent nearly 22 months in that position, which started off as an AR clerk role but didn’t evolve much beyond that, aside from some higher-level responsibilities at a small oil and gas company.
I never had a performance improvement plan, although there were discussions about work quality issues—typically coinciding with my exam periods. I did make occasional mistakes, but we all do; perfection is unattainable.
Since the start of this year, my responsibilities had been growing, and I started taking on more analytical tasks for the controller. Things were finally falling into place and I was enjoying my work, especially after passing all my CPA exams in January and no longer feeling the pressure of studying.
However, when I arrived at work today, I was called into a meeting and informed that I was being laid off. They did offer me a severance package, which is a relief. Now I’m focused on completing my CPA certification process.
I’m reaching out for advice on finding a new job. Should I work with a recruiter? I’ve never been fond of public Accounting, but I’m considering whether it might be a viable option for me now. Any suggestions?
One response
I’m really sorry to hear about your layoff, especially after all the hard work you’ve put in to pass your CPA exams. First, congratulations on that achievement! It sounds like you were starting to find your groove in your role, so it’s understandable to feel a bit thrown off by this change.
When it comes to finding a new role, here are a few tips that might help:
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn: Highlight your accomplishments, especially the analytical work you were doing for the controller. Be sure to include your CPA status once you’ve completed the certification process.
Network: Reach out to former colleagues, professors, or classmates. Let them know you’re looking for new opportunities. You’d be surprised how many job leads come from personal connections.
Recruiters: Leveraging recruiters can be a great way to find opportunities. They have access to jobs that may not be publicly listed and can sometimes help you land interviews faster.
Consider Public Accounting: While you might not be a fan, public Accounting can offer great experience and open doors to new opportunities. Take a look at the potential benefits, including exposure to different industries and networking opportunities.
Industry Research: Since you have experience in the oil and gas sector, consider looking for roles within that industry, or even explore adjacent industries where your skills could transfer well.
Stay Positive and Proactive: While it’s natural to feel discouraged, try to maintain a positive outlook. Job searching can take time, but with persistence, you’ll find the right opportunity that aligns with your career goals.
Remember to take care of yourself during this transition. It’s a challenging time, but it can also be a chance to reflect on what you want from your career moving forward. Good luck!