Career Paths Aren’t Straight and Narrow

I was inspired by Spiirall CEO Danielle McCormick’s letter “Planning is for Suckers.” If you haven’t read it, check it out here.  When I think of plans that have gone off track, my first thought is my own career plan. Changed majors, interrupted education, layoff, industry shifts, pay cut, more education, pay raises, certification, promotions, lateral moves – and so much growth and learning. The one thing that has been consistent throughout is the fact that no career plan I’ve made has ever fully been completed without changes along the way. I wouldn’t have it any other way.  

Now I’m sure some of you are feeling queasy just reading that.  The good news?  Accountants don’t usually experience some of the career hazards of other professions.  Accounting can be a lucrative, recession-proof, opportunity-filled career. So, what does my career path have in common with that of an accountant?  There’s more than one path, and it doesn’t have to be straight.  

Typically, you may see your path in an accounting firm as starting at staff level, moving to senior, then supervisor or manager. Over time, you become a principal, partner, or even managing partner.  Somewhere along that path, you may choose to focus on Tax or Audit or another area of specialization. Many have taken that path before you and been extremely successful.  But what if you don’t think that path is right for you?  Does that mean you’re in the wrong career?? I have more good news! There is more than one amazing, fulfilling, interesting career path in public accounting, and the possibilities are growing every day.

The business model for a public accounting firm is evolving as firms are expanding their service offerings and industry specializations. Clients are looking for more than tax and compliance. They want a trusted advisor.  This means opportunities that never existed before!

To help you navigate this uncharted territory, here are my tips to you, based on my own winding, bumpy, exhilarating career journey.  

1. Do some self-reflection. Start with an assessment tool like Clifton Strengths, DiSC or Kolbe. Think about what you do best, what you enjoy doing most, and what drains you.
2. Embrace learning opportunities – both formal and informal.  Participate in mentorship, coaching and CPE classes (even if you don’t need the credits).  Volunteer for a project that will allow you to interact with people you don’t usually work with. Most likely, your firm is already providing multiple learning resources.  Take advantage of it.   I know you’re busy, but you’ll never regret learning.
3. Keep your mind and your eyes open. Consider what’s going on around you – in the rest of the firm and industry-wide. Get involved in your local association. Be open to a path you may never have considered. Try something new. Do it even if it scares you. You can’t grow in your comfort zone.
4. Accept that there will be setbacks. Learn from them and move on. In my experience, some of my biggest setbacks led me to amazing opportunities I would never have known about.
5. Enjoy the ride! Life is full of ups and downs, twists, and turns. That’s what makes it worthwhile.