How do I choose between working in public accounting versus private/corporate accounting as a CPA
Choosing between working in public accounting and private or corporate accounting as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) involves evaluating various factors related to your career goals, personal preferences, and lifestyle. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Understanding the Roles
Public Accounting:
Public accountants serve multiple clients, which can range from small businesses to multinational corporations, and may specialize in areas such as auditing, taxation, and consulting. This path offers the opportunity to work on diverse projects and gain a broad perspective on various industries.
Private/Corporate Accounting:
Private accountants work within an organization, managing its financial records and planning. Their work includes preparing financial statements, budgeting, and strategic financial planning. This role offers deeper involvement within one particular industry or company.
2. Career Trajectory
Public Accounting:
– Broad Exposure: Starting in public accounting is often considered a powerful launchpad as it provides wide-ranging experience that can be valuable in numerous financial roles.
– Rapid Skill Development: The demanding environment helps develop a strong skill set quickly, from technical accounting to client management.
– Promotion Path: Clear and structured, with well-defined levels from staff accountant to partner.
Private/Corporate Accounting:
– Specialization: Allows for deeper expertise in specific industries or financial processes.
– Work-Life Balance: Often more predictable than public accounting, with fewer peaks of overwork during tax season or end-of-year audits.
– Career Opportunities: Can range from financial analyst roles to Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with potential for strategic decision-making roles.
3. Work Environment and Culture
Public Accounting:
– Variety and Travel: Potentially extensive travel and client-facing work, which can be exciting but also demanding.
– Networking Opportunities: Frequent interaction with various clients and other professionals which is great for building a broad professional network.
Private/Corporate Accounting:
– Stability and Focus: More routine and stability in daily tasks with a focus on internal stakeholders.
– Team Integration: Closer working relationships with internal teams, which can enhance job satisfaction and organizational commitment.
4. Lifestyle Considerations
Public Accounting:
– Demanding Schedules: Especially true during busy seasons (like tax season), where long hours are common.
– Flexibility: More opportunities to switch industries or move into consultancy roles later in your career.
Private/Corporate Accounting:
– Predictable Hours: Generally more regular hours except for period-end closing times.
– Internal Opportunities: Potential for involvement in strategic projects and internal career development programs.
5. Compensation and Benefits
– Public Accounting: Might offer higher starting salaries and benefits like bonuses based on billable hours or client acquisition.
– Private/Corporate Accounting: While possibly starting with a lower base salary compared to public, the growth in compensation can be substantial, especially if advancing to executive levels.
Decision-Making Tips
– Reflect on Your Long-Term Career Goals: Consider where you see yourself in the future and which path aligns better with these goals.
– Assess Your Work Style and Preferences: Do you thrive in constantly changing environments, or do you prefer stability and deeper focus?
– Consider Family and Personal Preferences: Work-life balance preferences are crucial, especially if you have or plan to have family responsibilities.
– Seek Mentorship and Advice: Talk to experienced professionals in both fields to get a real-world perspective on the pros and cons of each path.
Ultimately, the choice between public and private accounting should align with your personal career objectives, lifestyle preferences, and professional growth aspirations. Each path offers unique advantages and challenges, making it important to consider which environment and career trajectory best suit your individual needs and goals.