New to job and I feel so incompetent - Page 2

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  • #175748
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    I started working at a small CPA firm just this past week (will be doing mostly tax work). Basically, my training from day 1 & 2 was read pdf tutorials and watch videos of the programs I will be using. Then after, I was already given work to do — for an actual client! I sat for 2 hours looking at all the “workpapers” and not knowing where to start. I am just so frustrated and already feel like quitting. Any advice on how to better overcome the first weeks/months of public accounting? I honestly feel so incompetent and feel “out of place” surrounded by these smart CPAs…. I don’t know if it’s because I’m doing tax work (which I’m not good at to begin with) or I’m just not really fit for this public accounting world….. ANy advice is appreciated

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  • #394091
    Anonymous
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    #394092
    Anonymous
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    #394093
    Anonymous
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    Small firms typically don't offer much training. If you were honest in the interview, they will expect you to ask questions as needed. You will have to do a lot of learning on your own, but some things are client or firm specific. These are the items that they must tell or teach you. When you've reached a total block, its important to ask to avoid overbilling hours. Once you know more about the personalities you are working with, when to ask will be become easier. Also, try not to take feedback personally and remember people make me stress during tax season.

    Public accounting is hard work and not for everyone. The important thing is to learn if its for you or not. Every client is different, so its not repeating like doing accounts payable all day. Even partners have challenging days and must research topics. Good luck!!!!

    #394094
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    Caddy girl is right. That's why I like to leave the same accountants on the same clients. We are not Publicly traded clients. Little clients. That is why I expect alot of questions and enjoy it. That's how you to know you're employees, learn how to work with them. So it's like a double education. I learn your personality (which is huge), employee learns business. I can't afford to send everyone to a 100k a week training center.

    #394095
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    When you start to feel in over your head, just remember you didn't come into this world knowing how to walk and talk either. You had to learn those too. Every job has a learning curve. You will get the hang of it. If your employer didn't think you could do the job, they wouldn't have given it to you!

    #394096
    terranz
    Member

    Hi AnnaMay,

    I like what Kricket said very much. In my opinion, based on your study habits, ability to pass the exams all on first attempt speaks volumes. so you have to keep at it, and the positive/can-do attitude goes a long way!

    I also don't mean to hijack your thread, but i've seen your posts about specific problems or areas in FAR/AUD and have found them to be helpful. didn't find a private message function here, but i was wondering if i could ask you a couple questions about AUD/REG. Please let me know if this would be okay.

    thanks!!

Viewing 6 replies - 16 through 21 (of 21 total)
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