How To Choose an Accountancy Practice That’s Right for You
19 May, 20231-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- Important factors to consider when looking for a new accountancy practice
- How Spencer Clarke Group can help you
If you're a qualified Accountant looking for a job in the UK, it’s important to choose an accountancy practice that’s right for you and will allow you to thrive.
Finding an accountancy practice that fits what you’re looking for in terms of size, location, culture, work-life balance and benefits is vital for ensuring you are happy and fulfilled at work.
With this said, in our latest insights piece, we delve into important advice if you’re on the lookout for a new accountancy practice.
Important factors to consider when looking for a new accountancy practice
The size of the accountancy practice
The size of the accountancy practice you choose to work for can have a significant impact on your experience.
Larger firms may offer more opportunities for career progression and development, as well as access to a wider range of clients and projects.
However, smaller firms may provide a more supportive and flexible working environment, as well as the opportunity to work closely with senior colleagues and gain exposure to a variety of tasks.
According to NimbleFins, there are around 41,480 accountancy firms across the UK with around 80% only having 4 employees or less, so if you’re looking for a smaller firm, you’re in luck!
The location of the accountancy practice
The location of the accountancy practice can also be an important factor when choosing where to work.
You may want to consider whether the firm is located in a city or a rural area, as well as the commute time and transport links.
Some firms may also have multiple offices, which could provide opportunities for relocation or working in different locations.
An accountancy practice in the city will have many benefits such as nearby shops and better networking opportunities, however, a practice located in a rural setting might offer beautiful surroundings and outdoor areas to unwind during breaks.
The company culture
The culture of the accountancy practice can have a significant impact on your job satisfaction and overall experience.
You may want to research the firm's values, mission, and work culture to determine whether it aligns with your own personal and professional goals.
Consider whether having a social relationship with your colleagues outside of the office is important to you, or whether you’d prefer to keep work at work.
Look for reviews from current and former employees, as well as information on the company’s website and social media channels.
The additional benefits
The benefits offered by an accountancy practice can also be an important factor when considering a job offer.
Some practices may offer perks such as flexible working arrangements, bonus schemes, pension contributions, or health insurance.
You may also want to consider the opportunities for training and development, as well as the potential for career progression within the firm.
The clients
The clients that an accountancy practice works with can also be an important factor when choosing where to work.
You may want to consider the types of clients the firm serves, as well as their size, industry, and reputation.
Some accountancy practices may specialise in certain industries, such as technology or healthcare, while others may work with a diverse range of clients.
The accountancy practice’s reputation
You might also want to consider the reputation of the accountancy practice before making the decision to apply for any roles there.
Look for information on the firm's track record, awards, and certifications, as well as any news articles or press releases related to the accountancy practice.
You may also want to consider the practices’ corporate social responsibility initiatives, such as their commitment to sustainability, charitable causes and helping the local community.
The training and development opportunities
The accountancy practice you choose to work for should provide ample opportunities for learning, development and career progression.
You may want to inquire about the training programmes available and support for professional development, such as mentoring or coaching programmes, access to online resources, and opportunities to attend industry events and conferences.
If career progression is important to you, it’s vital to explore a practice’s options for this in advance.
The work-life balance
Finally, the work-life balance offered by the accountancy practice is also an important factor to consider when choosing where to work.
Look for firms that offer remote or hybrid working opportunities, as flexible working is an important factor for helping to improve wellbeing. Opportunities for additional time off, such as sabbaticals or extended holidays should also be considered.
You may also want to inquire about the firm's policies around overtime, workloads, and time management before making any decisions.
In conclusion, choosing the right accountancy practice to work for requires the careful consideration of a variety of factors to ensure you’ll be happy working there.
By considering the important factors above, you can make an informed decision to ensure your career move is a success!
How can Spencer Clarke Group help?
If you’re on the lookout for an exciting new accountancy firm to develop your career, we have hundreds of accountancy and finance career opportunities at a number of different practices across the UK.
Whether you’re looking for a better work-life balance, or a more established practice where you can spread your wings, our specialist recruitment consultants are on hand to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Since 2017, we've been changing the face of recruitment. From our employees, to the way we do business, to the culture within our office, we're determined to make a difference and create a positive impact on everyone around us.
Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health.
Similarly, we understand the impact which an experienced and skilled employee can make to a business and we love seeing clients thrive through the hard work of candidates which we have placed with them.
We operate in two sectors:
In eleven specialisms:
Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing
Corporate Functions & Business Support
Planning, Development & Regeneration
Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering
If you’re searching for a new role, why not visit our job page to take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available.
If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.
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