Wasn’t promoted to senior – struggling to see a path forward in this field.

Navigating Career Setbacks in Public Accounting: Finding Your Next Steps

In the fast-paced world of Accounting, professional growth often comes with its share of challenges. Recently, I faced a setback in my career that has left me contemplating the future of my journey in this field. Despite my dedication and hard work at a Top 10 Audit firm, I was not promoted to a senior position this year. While I can appreciate the decision—many of my colleagues demonstrate stronger competency in their roles—I find myself grappling with the mental and emotional toll of my work environment.

As someone who puts in long hours—often exceeding 10 each day—I struggle to complete my tasks efficiently. Consequently, I often end up working longer than necessary without achieving the productivity I strive for. Considering that I’m consistently clocking in over 50 hours a week for around $70k annually, the situation feels unsustainable. The thought of taking my career to the next level in public Accounting seems daunting, especially amidst the current landscape where firms are retreating on promotions and hiring.

The job market reflects similar concerns across the industry, leaving me uncertain about transitioning into a new role. Although I have my CPA, I’m aware that my limited experience—particularly when it comes to public companies—may not position me as an appealing candidate for other opportunities.

Faced with these challenges, I’m at a crossroads. Should I persevere in my current role for another year or two, hoping for improvement, or is it time to explore new avenues? This is a question many professionals encounter in their careers, especially during periods of uncertainty.

As I contemplate my next steps, it may be beneficial to consider destigmatizing the urge to pivot and instead view it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Whether that means enhancing my skill set through additional training, networking for opportunities within different sectors, or even seeking guidance from mentors, there are pathways to explore that could lead to fulfilling career advancements.

Ultimately, it is essential to weigh the options carefully and pursue a path that aligns with both personal and professional aspirations. If you’ve faced a similar situation, I would love to hear your insights on how you navigated career challenges within the accounting or broader business landscape. Together, we can build resilience and seek fulfilling opportunities ahead.