[xindyblue]

I’ve been working at a mid-size accounting firm (e.g. GT, McGladrey, BDO…) for about 2 years now and would like to switch to Big 4. However, I would like to quit my current job and take like a half-year off to take care of my parents who’ve been ill for a while now. Would this hurt me when I’m trying to to get a new job?

Thanks in advance.

[acamp]

First, the switch from mid-sized to Big4 is generally pretty easy.

I'm curious to see the input of others, because I could see two scenarios.

1. Apply with the Big4 now and negotiate a start date 6-months down the road (generally the Big4 will always have demand for incoming experienced audit hires, as people are always leaving), so I could see there being a chance of this working; not to mention entry level new hires are given offers a year in advance so very long start dates are common occurrence.

OR

2. Quit job, start applying with Big4 during your leave.

On one hand you are stating up front that you are taking six months off of work which might cause a hiring manager to wonder if you'll do the same after you start, on the other hand if you wait, you'll still have a gap on your resume which also might also raise the same question depending on how you explain the gap.

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

Becker Videos: [AUD - 82]

California CPA

[fuzyfro89]

I would not recommend applying now, since experienced hiring decision are done on an “as needed” basis and generally not far in advance like campus hires which are budgeted and planned almost a year ahead.

Experienced hiring is usually done after busy season, and as the HR team finds out what turnover is like at each staff/associate/mgr level compared to their internal targets and the promotion pipeline (internal). Once the shortages, or expected shortages, are identified, they'll have HR start going out and looking for candidates. Part of this also depends on the office size. An office of 75 probably needs to hit their targets almost exactly… an extra person will be sitting on his/her hands. A large office like NY/Bay area/Chicago/LA can probably easily absorb a few extra people, so they might not be as particular about their target headcount (depending on level).

The exception to everything is that if you are a strong candidate, they may really want you, but I can't imagine them giving you an offer with that long of a start date. At best, I would assume that after interviewing, most firms would tell you that they are very interested but want you to reapply or get in touch when you know your availability 1-2 months before.

Just my guess, anyway…

[Author]

Replies