[Anonymous]

I have been in public accounting for 4 1/2 years and so far I have found that I enjoy the work that I do but I hate the sales aspect that becomes more expected as you progress in your career. I have thought about switching to private industry where I would not be expected to sell. I was in banking prior to returning to school to get the classes needed to sit for the CPA exam. Not being able to sell was a motivating factor pushing me to pass the exam.

I was hoping that I could get some feedback from anyone that has had similar thoughts.

I enjoy the people and firm where I work but I know that you can only progress so far if you can’t sell and bring in new business. The hours at public away from your family can be tough if you do not want to be a partner one day.

Thanks,

[Thrawn]

I would definitely change career paths if you don't want to be a salesman, because that is really the key part of a partner job, and quite honestly the hours and stress involved in becoming partner are not worth it in my view.

BEC 87 Feb 14
REG 84 Apr 14
FAR 82 Nov 14
AUD 86 Feb 15

[Mayo]

“quite honestly the hours and stress involved in becoming partner are not worth it in my view.”

Totally agree with this. Not to mention that once you actually make partner it doesn't mean it's easy street from there. You're now at the bottom of a new totem pole with plenty of other non audit work to do.

Mayo, BBA, Macc

[acamp]

This! “You're now at the bottom of a new totem pole” … I once heard a partner referred to as a “1st year partner”

Ninja + Wiley Test Bank: [FAR - 81] [REG - 76] [BEC - 88] [AUD - 73](doh!)

Becker Videos: [AUD - 82]

California CPA

[musicamor]

You may not want the “sales” part of a progressive public accounting career; however, having a solid 5-7 years of public accounting experience (particularly Big 4) as the foundation to your resume is invaluable and will benefit your career in perpetuity.

Texas CPA - licensed in 2012!!!

[Anonymous]

Besides the selling portion, you also have to think about the liability that being a partner carries. (I hate selling btw and for this reason, would not want to be partner or own my own firm).

My professor was telling us that another professor at our University had CPA firms, I think Big 4, contacting him and wanting him to become a partner because he was really great in his field. However, the guy simply did not want to be a partner because he didn't want the liability that came along with it.

[Author]

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