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

Navigating Career Setbacks in Public Accounting: Finding Your Path Forward

Experiencing a setback in your career, particularly when it comes to promotions, can feel disheartening, especially in a demanding field like Audit. For professionals working at leading firms, this scenario can lead to questions about future prospects and personal fulfillment in the workplace.

Currently, I find myself in the position of not being promoted to a senior role after my annual review. While I understand and even accept the decision—acknowledging that my peers demonstrate stronger capabilities in their work—the toll this takes on my mental well-being is significant. Despite putting in 10-hour workdays, I often find that I am unable to complete an equivalent amount of tasks. As a result, I frequently end up logging extra hours without corresponding productivity to show for it.

In a demanding job like Audit, 50 hours a week coupled with a salary of approximately $70,000 can feel disheartening, especially when contemplating a future in public Accounting. With firms tightening their belts on promotions and hiring—an issue that appears widespread—the current job market poses challenges, particularly for those looking to transition into industry roles. Having obtained my CPA is an asset; however, the gap in experience, especially with public companies, leaves me feeling less competitive.

This raises an important question: should I remain in my current position, possibly for another year or two, or consider making an immediate career transition? This decision weighs heavily on me.

For anyone in a similar situation, it’s crucial to assess your current role critically. Are there opportunities for skill development or mentorship within your firm that could enhance your capabilities? Additionally, networking can often lead to insights about potential paths in both public Accounting and industry roles.

As I navigate these uncertainties, I’m starting to realize that sometimes, waiting it out might offer the clarity I need. Each individual’s journey in the tumultuous world of public accounting varies, but sharing experiences can provide valuable support. If you’ve faced similar difficulties, what choices did you make, and how did they shape your career trajectory? Engaging in dialogue can illuminate the way forward for many of us grappling with similar dilemmas.