Just got my CPA! Should I start looking for better pay? (consulting, application)
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I work as a management accountant for a large corporation; I have 6 years of experience with this same company since finishing college. I completed graduate level study at the local uni while working to meet state CPA licensure requirements. Yesterday I got my score in for the fourth (and last) section of the CPA exam and I passed. I am wondering if I should start pumping out resumes? I have a couple connections through my state Society of CPAs chapter and I was thinking of finessing those. I have a standing offer from a fellow CPA who runs a firm, but I have not given him any answers on that yet.
I do like my job - the pay is good, I get 5 weeks of vacation, my employer paid for some of my schooling, and is providing me with a bonus for passing the exams. In my current position I design/program accounting modules for our accountants and accounting clerks to use in processing entries and cash disbursements. My strengths are in auditing and accounting system planning & design. I also feel that my skills are valuable enough for me to test the waters a bit in the city where I live.
I do feel loyalty to my company, and they did bear some of the costs for me to meet state requirements. There exist no contractual requirements, but I feel I would let my boss down by making an exit after they helped me through this process. I am kind of torn on this issue...
You passed the exam, but you aren't a CPA until you get your license. Have you met the experience requirement at your current job [that is, are you under the supervision of a licensed CPA?] If so, it sounds like it is probably just a matter of passing the ethics exam and sending in your application.
Honestly, I don't know that I would leave your current job unless it was for something better, and your job sounds much better than a lot of jobs in public accounting--it actually sounds more like the type of job people get when they decide it's time to leave public accounting.
Honestly, I don't know that I would leave your current job unless it was for something better, and your job sounds much better than a lot of jobs in public accounting--it actually sounds more like the type of job people get when they decide it's time to leave public accounting.
Exactly what I was thinking. haha. There's a reason public accounting has high turnover. People leave for industry for better pay and hours.
Other than that, do what makes you happy. I don't see a point of making a change just for the sake of making a change if you're happy with where you're at. Just keep learning new skills, and never stop looking for something better---but remember the grass isn't always greener.
Also, I wouldn't show them loyalty. They would most likely get rid of you in a second regardless of how much you needed the job. Do what is best for you and/or your family.
Being a CPA and having system/programming experience can be a huge advantage. Some of that depends on what software you work with, but I have seen people like that demand a very good salary. That is also a very good combo for moving in to consulting.
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