Is it typical in the industry to have to actively ask for work?
I’m a first-year staff accountant at a firm with three CPAs, two senior accountants, and a few bookkeepers. My boss has emphasized that my output isn’t where he wants it to be, but despite my efforts to request more tasks, there just isn’t enough work available. For context, during my most productive week this tax season, I logged 51.8 hours in the office, with 17.8 hours being unbillable—resulting in only 34 billable hours. I haven’t come close to that level of productivity since, even though I ask for work almost every day.
So, in the Accounting field, is it common to have to request work more often than receiving assignments?
It’s frustrating to be called out in meetings for low production when I’m genuinely trying my hardest!
One response
It sounds like you’re going through a tough time, and it’s understandable to feel frustrated, especially when you’re putting in such a significant effort. In many Accounting firms, particularly during busy seasons, it can be common for junior staff to have to actively seek out work. Each firm operates differently, and in smaller teams, the workload might be unevenly distributed, leading to situations where new staff need to remind their supervisors about available capacity.
That said, it’s essential for both you and your supervisor to have a clear understanding of expectations and goals. It might be helpful to have a candid conversation with your boss about your workload and performance expectations. You could discuss how you’re actively requesting work and whether there are specific tasks or projects they could assign to you to help increase your productivity. You might also want to inquire about the workload distribution within the team to better understand why you’re not receiving more assignments.
Ultimately, communication is key. Sharing your concerns and seeking feedback could lead to a more balanced workload and clearer expectations moving forward. Hang in there—being proactive is a great quality in an accountant, and these early experiences will help you grow in your career!