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

Navigating Career Challenges in Public Accounting: Seeking a Path Forward

In the competitive landscape of public Accounting, many professionals face daunting hurdles that can impact their career trajectory. Recently, I’ve encountered one of those challenges myself: I wasn’t promoted to a senior position this year at a top 10 firm, and I’m currently grappling with the question of how to move forward.

While I respect my firm’s decision, I can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment, particularly as I observe my colleagues demonstrating a stronger grasp of their roles. The experience has left me mentally drained. My daily workload stretches past ten hours, yet I often find myself unable to complete my tasks efficiently, absorbing the surplus hours without tangible results.

With a commitment of over 50 hours weekly and an annual salary around $70,000, I’m starting to question if this sacrifice is truly worth it. The thought of trying to elevate my career in public Accounting feels overwhelming, especially in an environment where promotions and new hires are becoming increasingly scarce—a trend that seems to be reflective of the broader industry.

Adding to my stress is the current job market, which isn’t particularly favorable for moving into industry roles either. Though I have my CPA, I worry that my limited experience makes me less appealing to potential employers, particularly since I lack exposure to public companies.

This leaves me at a crossroads: should I endure another year or two in my current position, hoping for growth, or is it time to pivot onto a new path? It’s a decision that weighs heavily on my mind as I evaluate my options and the future of my career in public accounting.

If you’re in a similar situation, know that you’re not alone. It can be tough to find clarity during these challenging times, but considering your long-term goals and exploring new opportunities might lead to a more fulfilling career path.