Unsure if I made the right choice…
About a month ago, I stepped back from my public Accounting role after gaining around 1.5 years of experience as an Audit associate. I recently accepted a position as a staff accountant at an AdTech company. I currently live in a moderate cost of living area, where my previous firm paid me just under $80k. With my new role, I’ll be earning approximately $95k. The salary increase is fantastic, but I can’t help but wonder if I’ll have any regrets about this switch in the future.
One response
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain after making a career shift, especially one that involves a change in industry and job role. Here are a few things to consider that might help you make sense of your decision:
Financial Considerations: It sounds like the financial aspect of your new position is a significant improvement. Consider how this salary will impact your overall quality of life, savings, and financial goals.
Career Development: Think about the long-term implications for your career. Public Accounting has a structured career path and can provide valuable experience and skills that are highly regarded in many industries. On the other hand, the AdTech space could offer you new experiences and skills that are increasingly relevant in our digital world.
Job Satisfaction: Reflect on what drew you to the AdTech industry and this specific role. If you’re excited about the work and the company’s mission, that could lead to greater job satisfaction and personal fulfillment, which is invaluable in the long run.
Skill Transfer: Consider how the skills you’ve developed as an Audit associate can transfer to the staff accountant role. Will you be able to apply your Accounting knowledge in a new way, or learn new tools and methods that can enhance your skill set?
Culture and Environment: Think about the work environment and culture at both companies. A supportive and engaging culture can lead to more job satisfaction, and it’s something to prioritize in your decision.
Future Opportunities: Consider the potential for growth within the AdTech company. Is there room for advancement? Can you see a future where you can expand your skills or move into roles that interest you more?
Ultimately, every career move comes with some uncertainty. Focus on what you value most—financial security, job satisfaction, career growth—and trust that you made the best decision with the information you had at the time. It’s also important to remember that every experience, even if it doesn’t work out as anticipated, contributes to your overall career journey. Good luck!