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In this edition of the Barden Practice Series (our practice focused blogs), Aoibhín Byrne, Senior Associate, with our Dublin team and an expert in recently qualified practice and tax and careers, gives you an expert’s guide to the key differences between practice firms. This is perfect for any of you deciding and choosing between a big or small accounting practice, especially following your training contract.
Practice, Practice, Practice…
Throughout your training contract you gained an understanding of what working for a practice is like and the type of work that’s involved. Some people know pretty much straightaway that practice (regardless of the type of practice) is just not for them, whilst others know it’s for them but would like to try a different type of practice.
Others thinking ahead ,and planning their professional futures, understand the impact that experience gained from one practice over another can have on your CV and future options. To start let’s take a closer look at the practice landscape……
The Practice Landscape
Firms broadly revolve around three categories:
- Big 4 firms;
- Top 10 or 20 firms; and
- Smaller or SME accountancy firms.
As you can see, the categorisation is by size and whilst size isn’t everything, there are some implications as a result of size, which you should consider.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
By asking some key questions you can uncover some of these implications…..
Is there a structured development plan in place for experienced hires?
Sometimes in smaller firms, where there is less hierarchy and levels, career development by way of promotion can be limited. On the flip side, because there are more layers and levels in a bigger firm, there’s more competition and a promotion can sometimes be way of title only. In any case, walking away from a mapped-out career plan in your current firm shouldn’t mean you can’t map out a career in another firm, but you need to ask!
Would you like to open your own practice some day?
If so, working in a smaller practice with a broad exposure to a variety of tasks would be of benefit. Although working in a bigger firm can give you access to experts which may be useful for your own practice one day.
Have you a preference for a particular area or industry sector you would like to work in?
The bigger the firm, the more specialised it will be. Some larger firms are known for certain industry sector specialisms. A small firm (with the exception of a boutique or specialised firm) typically offers a more varied role with experience across all areas. It’s important to note that the culture of the firm can determine access to different teams and or broader work.
Where do you see yourself long term?
Probably the most crucial question to ask yourself as the size of the firm you choose can help or deter you from reaching your long-term goals. If you want to ultimately end up in industry a big 4 firm is the best bet as a lot of industry roles require big 4 experience.
If you want to become a partner, whilst an option in any firm, regardless of size, a firm that’s top heavy can prevent you from reaching your goal. Top heavy teams are typically present in the larger firms. However, a similar challenge can present itself in smaller firms which are owner managed as these firms may never open up the partner route for their staff.
What do people who have worked in the firm say about the firm?
Regardless of size and perception of any firm, you need to find out what it’s really like to work here, ask people that work there. People you trust and share the same values as you.
Remember, One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Barden’s Practice Series
The Barden Practice Series aims to deliver practice focused content and interviews with the practice profession, and shine a spotlight on practice as a professional accounting career in the Irish market. Feel free to get in touch with Aoibhín Byrne, at aoibhin.byrne@barden.ie, if you’d like to have a chat about the practice market, career opportunities, building your practice team or have an idea for a blog.