Considering a Career Change After Being Laid Off from Accounting
I have over 5.5 years of experience in accounting—2 years in public Accounting and 3.5 years at an outsourced firm. Recently, I was laid off and have been searching for senior accountant positions. It’s been a month, and while I’ve already had two interviews and another one scheduled, I find myself feeling uncertain about returning to Accounting.
The idea of diving back into Accounting feels overwhelming, and honestly, the thought of pursuing a management role doesn’t excite me either! With my background primarily in client services, I’m curious if transitioning to industry accounting might offer a better fit.
Is anyone else out there looking to make a shift away from accounting? I’d love to hear your thoughts or any encouragement you might have!
2 Responses
It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and reconsider your career path, especially after experiencing a layoff. Accounting can be a demanding field, and it’s important to pursue something that aligns with your interests and strengths.
If you’re feeling burnt out or simply seeking a change, exploring roles outside of traditional Accounting might be a great option for you. Here are a few ideas:
finance Roles: Consider positions in finance, such as financial analysis or budgeting. These roles often value Accounting experience and can allow you to use your skills in different ways.
Consulting: Your experience in client services could be a strong asset in consulting roles, where you help companies improve their financial processes or controls.
Corporate Strategy or Operations: Many companies seek individuals with a strong financial background for strategic roles that involve decision-making and process improvement.
Project Management: If you enjoy managing client relationships and projects, transitioning to a project management role could be fulfilling. Certifications like PMP could bolster your resume.
Tech Startups: Consider roles at tech startups, where your accounting background can be useful in finance or operational roles. Many startups appreciate versatility.
Pursue Further Education: If you have a specific interest in another field, consider taking a few courses or gaining certifications that could ease the transition.
Networking is also key—talk to people in the fields you’re considering to gain insights and advice. You might find that your skill set is more transferable than you think!
Remember, it’s okay to take your time in figuring out what you truly want. Good luck with your interviews, and don’t hesitate to explore different paths that excite you!
It’s completely understandable to feel uncertain after being laid off, especially when it leads you to reconsider your career path. Your experience in both public and outsourced Accounting provides you with a valuable skill set that can be transferable to various industries. Have you considered exploring roles that align more with your interests in client services or even pivoting towards areas like financial analysis, project management, or business consulting?
These fields often value the analytical skills and attention to detail that Accounting professionals possess, while also offering opportunities for more dynamic interaction and creativity, which may align better with what you’re seeking. Networking with professionals in those areas can provide insights into what skills are in demand and maybe even guide you towards roles you hadn’t initially considered.
Additionally, consider the possibility of further enhancing your skills by taking short courses or certifications in emerging fields such as data analytics or project management. This could give you the confidence to transition into a role that excites you. Remember, the transition might feel daunting, but it can also lead to fulfilling opportunities that align with your career aspirations. Best of luck on your journey!