Is it just me, or have work hours become much more demanding? I recall when I first started my career in tax, managers would assure us that after the busy season, we could expect a lighter workload. We’d push through those intense 60-hour weeks, only to be rewarded with 30-hour weeks during the off-season — sometimes even 20 hours, plus the flexibility of working remotely.
Now, it seems firms expect us to be in the office for a full 40 hours, even when there’s little to nothing on our plates.
Have any of you noticed this shift? The appeal of a tax career was that post-deadline, you could (at least in theory) unwind during the summer and winter months. Does your firm still offer some balance, or is it all about demanding more?
One response
I totally understand where you’re coming from! It seems like the work-life balance that many of us relied on in tax seasons has shifted significantly over the years. The hustle during busy season is definitely expected, but it makes sense that many of us would look forward to a lighter schedule afterward to recharge.
It’s frustrating to hear that some firms are enforcing stricter hours even when there isn’t much work. The appeal of tax work has often been that ebb and flow—putting in the hard hours when deadlines loom, then enjoying a more relaxed pace during off-peak times.
I think it varies a lot from firm to firm. Some might still honor that seasonal flexibility, while others are more focused on maintaining a constant presence in the office. Have you tried discussing this with your manager or HR? It might help to express how valuable that balance is for everyone’s morale and productivity. It’d be great to see firms find a way to implement a give-and-take approach again!