[Tncincy]

I have been scouring the boards looking for a position after tax season. I have read several Accountant positions in my area and just froze when it came to applying. I have ran my own business for over 20 years, I have my Bachelors and Masters in Accounting and need to really pass this CPA exam. I believe I will be over qualified for some of these positions, but Has anyone felt intimidated by the job descriptions or maybe feel like not being able to live up to the hype of being a CPA?

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[Bourne]

No. You're feeling sorry for yourself and need to MAN up. Don't melt down into a little shadow, man up and take on the responsibilities. Firms won't expect you to come in and know all of their ways of doing things. If you have the experience, you can do the work. It's a dog eat dog world, just apply for the jobs and get out of your comfort zone.

[jeff]

^ For the record, I'm reasonably certain that Tncincy is female 🙂

[Bourne]

WOMAN up. thx jeff

[Tncincy]

lol….point taken. I'll stop the wo and man up….how's that. I didn't quite think of it like that, but point taken.

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[aaronmo]

It doesn't sound like you're over qualified, so I wouldn't worry about that. To me it sounds like you think your experience as a business owner will be helpful, and…unless it's in accounting…probably not so much. Actually I think it sounds like intimidation/humility might be somewhat rational here…depending on that 20 years of business experience. I felt intimidated…rightly so. I think that's true for most of us until we get more experience.

I'm a bit unclear on the post though…you are or aren't a CPA?

[Go.For.Broke]

@Tncincy I understand where you're coming from. I went from a staff accountant (as a non-CPA) to an assistant controller (as a CPA) at a different firm. The position and the credential seemed like big shoes to fill at the beginning, but I've since really found my stride and have gained confidence in what I'm doing. Where I work, there are strict deadlines, but there is also room for grace and a learning curve. Every situation is different, but I think you'll be fine.

[Anonymous]

A lot of these job postings are meaningless buzzword drivel from inexperienced companies and overheated recruiters. I wouldn't be too intimidated.

[Skynet]

Tncincy – Use your sexuality to your advantage.

Remember C.P.A. stands for Cutie Pie w. Assets

[Missy]

Its called “imposter syndrome” and its a very real and very common thing. Google it once you realize how many people have the same feelings, your mind will be at ease with it.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Tncincy]

@skynet: I used to think you're crazy, but I know now, you are absolutely crazy and hilarious. Point taken…lol
@Missy: I will look that up. I know what I know but working for yourself you kinda get spoiled. I guess I'm doing a self evaluation on my excel skills or software skills. It's like taking a timed typing test, I couldn't do it to save my life, but left alone, I could type and type quickly all day. (I guess you know how old I am lol).

Points taken Ninja's 🙂

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[jenpen]

Oh man, @Missy, that describes me to a T. I worked as a measly little legal secretary for years because I could never move out of that role. I got my MBA and now CPA and have worked in accounting for 4 years. I'm thinking about looking for a new position after tax season, but the thought terrifies me because what if I just don't know anything?! I still think of myself as low-level staff and not someone with a career and accomplishments. I've never heard of that before, but it definitely feels better knowing I'm not alone in the thought process.

AUD - 56 - 68 - 61 - 9/8/16
REG - 75
FAR - 7/15/16
BEC - TBD

Wiley CPAexcel and NINJA 10 Point Combo

[Anonymous]

I have imposter syndrome big time as well!

[tygolfer]

Imposter syndrome here as well lol. I only have 3 years experience right now as a staff accountant, and currently job hunting. No one expects you to know everything just because you are a CPA, as long as you are capable of researching and finding the right answer. Good luck in the job search!

[Tncincy]

I just read the article and 100% true. I just ordered the audio as well to share with my daughter. Thanks Missy.

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[Anonymous]

Syndrome my ass, it's called INSECURITY.

[Author]

Replies