[kalexo]

Hi All,

I just passed all 4 parts of the CPA in CA and I would like to make the transition from private accounting to public. I have 8 years of accounting experience and I am currently a Sr. Staff Accountant. I make decent money and I understand that I may need to take a pay cut. However, I think in the long run it would be beneficial to have public experience.
I worked full time while in school so I never had the chance to go to any meet the firm events or participate in any social functions. As most people in these forums have suggested I started applying to small/regional firms in my area.
I applied to the firm that provides services to my current employer. My question is, would it be unprofessional to reach out the the partner that works on my employer?
Any suggestions on how to make this transition would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Kalexo,
I actually did the very same thing in which you are about to do. I was first employed at a professional hockey team (league below NHL). I was about six months from completing my testing and I realized that I needed experience under a CPA, and that was never going to happen where I was currently working. At first, a recruiter reached out to me about a local firm. I had the day off so I did it. I probably sounded cocky and not ready to leave my current employer. However, this got the gears moving. I reached out the partner of the firm that does our comps and returns and talked to him about what I should do. Basically, public accounting experience exposes you to so much that it's beyond beneficial. I took a pay cut, but, like you, I knew it was worth it. However, the partner and my supervisor discussed the terms like when my last day was and such. Basically, you really do not have a say, since they have to discuss it because they are worried about leaving the company in a tough spot. The partner felt bad about taking me, but its what I wanted and he asked if it was ok if he “stole” me.

So no, I do not think it is a bad thing to do. However, make sure you keep everyone at stake in the light, do not blindside either of them. Now I went to a two-partner small local firm so my experience might be different than yours, but the transition is humbling. You might think you know what's going on, but you don't. That's what happened to me at least.

Now, my former employer is trying to steal me back from the firm. Which is a tough time since busy season is right around the corner. Remember not to burn bridges which is why I will not fully leave the firm before the seaon if I do decide to go back.

[Anonymous]

I transitioned to public after 10 years in private accounting. Best decision I ever made. I work for a smallish firm and have had exposure to so much more than I would have imagined. I actually got my foot in the door by reaching out. I requested a meeting with someone on staff that I knew was actively engaged in promoting the profession through our state society. She took an hour out of her day and gave me some great advice and resume feedback. A month later, a position opened at the firm and I was the only candidate they even considered. I did take a pay cut initially, but it didn't last forever and I'm well ahead four years later. Take the leap and make contact. You never know what might happen. Best wishes!

[kalexo]

Thank you both so much for the feedback. It is nice to know others have been in the same position as me and have had success. So far I have applied 7 small/medium size firms. I will muster up the courage to speak to the partner at the firm and hope something comes of it. I agree it is important not to burn bridges; I never have. I actually have a good relationship with my manager who comes from a big 4 and has tons of public experience so I may seek his help as well and be transparent.

Just throwing this out there. I am in the Long Beach, Ca area. If anyone comes accross this post and knows of any possible opportunities, please let me know!

[Author]

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