Should I Stay in Accounting After the Recent Layoffs in Washington DC?
Hi everyone! I’m a 25-year-old auditor based in the Washington DC area. I graduated with honors from a well-respected small liberal arts college in 2022 with a BS in Accounting. I originally landed a position at a Big 4 firm but was laid off in 2024 during a mass reduction. After that, I joined a government contracting firm, only to be laid off again in December. In January, I accepted another position with a different contractor, but the offer was rescinded due to their major contract falling through and no available spots.
Since then, I’ve been actively searching for new opportunities. I’ve consulted my school’s career office, and they assured me that my resume looks solid and that the current job market is challenging. I’ve applied for over 100 positions, have passed one section of the CPA exam, and hold a secret clearance.
I’ve also reached out to temp agencies and numerous recruiters, but I haven’t had any luck. My emergency fund has been exhausted due to significant car repairs, and I urgently need to secure a job. While I’m currently on unemployment, I know it’s not a sustainable solution.
Given the circumstances, I’m questioning whether a career in Accounting is worth it for the long term. Should I consider relocating to another city for better job prospects? I naively assumed that a city like DC would provide diverse job opportunities, even during government budget cuts. I’ve applied to various local companies, including Hilton and Marriott, as well as multiple public accounting firms, private industries, nonprofits, and government agencies without receiving any offers.
Here’s a quick glimpse of my experience:
- Various retail and customer service jobs throughout high school and college
- Internship with a nonprofit finance team in Summer 2021
- Big 4 experience from Spring 2022 to Summer 2024, working with a government client
- Contractor firm experience from Summer 2024 to December 2024, also with a government client
Any advice or suggestions on what steps to take next would be greatly appreciated!
One response
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and I want to acknowledge how challenging it can be to deal with mass layoffs and the job market in general, especially in a city like Washington DC that you would expect to have more opportunities. Here are some thoughts to consider as you navigate your situation:
Broaden Your Job Search: While it’s understandable to want to stay in DC, it might be useful to broaden your job search to other cities or even remote positions. Companies are increasingly hiring remote workers, and this could expand your options significantly.
Diversify Your Skill Set: Since you’ve already passed one CPA section, continuing to pursue your CPA can enhance your employability. Additionally, consider brushing up on other relevant skills or certifications that might be attractive to employers, such as data analytics or software widely used in Accounting (e.g., Excel, QuickBooks, or ERP systems).
Network: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Attend industry events or webinars, and let people in your network know that you’re looking for opportunities. Sometimes job openings come from personal connections rather than traditional applications.
Explore Related Fields: If Accounting roles are scarce, think about related fields where your skills could be applicable, such as financial analysis, project management, or compliance roles in other sectors. Your experience in government contracting might open up opportunities in public administration or nonprofit organizations.
Temporary or Part-Time Work: While you’re searching for a more permanent position, consider taking temp roles or part-time positions that could provide some immediate income. This can also help bridge the gap in your resume while you look for something more aligned with your career goals.
Stay Positive and Persistent: It can be easy to get discouraged, but persistence is key. If you haven’t had success with recruiters or temp agencies, consider reaching out to smaller firms or businesses that might not be as widely known but still need Accounting support.
Evaluate Your Goals: Think about your long-term career goals. If accounting feels increasingly uncertain for you, it might be worth exploring other interests or fields where you could leverage your degree and skills. Sometimes a pivot can lead to unexpected, rewarding opportunities.
Financial Planning: Given your current financial situation, consider reaching out to local resources that assist individuals in need, whether it’s financial counseling, job placement services, or community programs that could help you manage expenses while you search for work.
Ultimately, it’s about balancing your immediate financial needs with your long-term career goals. Don’t hesitate to seek out every avenue for assistance, whether that’s tapping into personal connections, leveraging your school’s career services, or identifying non-traditional job openings. Good luck, and know that you’re not alone in this!