Now that the May 2010 CPA Board Exams is over, it’s now time to think of which career path to take for the new certified public accountants. The best way for those who really wanted to become accountants* is to start working with one of the BIG 4 accounting firms. I say those who really wanted to become accountants because there are a lot of those who took the CPA board whose hearts aren’t really into accounting. They just see it as a means to an end. Which is sad really, but that is the reality of life. You gotta do what you gotta do.
Anyway, as a new CPA there are a lot of options. You could work for a bank, an investing house, and a whole lot of others. For those who did not graduate from prestigious schools however, the competition for places at multinational companies can be quite intense. Believe it or not, there are preset notions out there. This is why I would recommend slaving at one of the big accounting firms first. Those guys are always hiring. Sure the starting salaries are a bit disappointing (at least it was when I worked there), but look at it long term. An experience in a big accounting firm is a huge investment in your accounting career. There are tons of things that you will learn by working in an accounting firm– including creative accounting (lol). I used to say then after a year working for the biggest accounting firm in the country that I now declare myself a doctor of accounting, if you get my drift.
So don’t be tempted by the much bigger offers from multinational firms should you be lucky enough to have multiple offers. Slug it out with the best of them in an accounting firm first. The experience and the knowledge you gain from working there will be invaluable to you as an accounting professional.
hmm
