[Anonymous]

My position in my current employer requires great involvement during year end audit, so I know and I have a contact with the external auditors and the partners. Now that I’m almost done with my exam, I’m planning to start looking for a job in public accounting. I tried applying online to couple of mid-size firms to see if I got luck, but so far have not heard. Not sure if due to busy season and they’re fully staffed or they prefer other candidates.

I have only one section left, do you think now is the best time to apply or should I wait until the busy season is done (maybe April)? Also, is it appropriate to contact the lead auditor, or the partner(s) of our past and current auditor to seek for advice on how/when to apply to their firm or if they can give me some referral? What is the best approach to tell them about my interest in public accounting? My current boss is aware of my plans, so I’m not worried on them telling my boss about my intention of career change. I’m still planning to do the traditional way of applying for jobs but I think it will give me advantage if I will contact somebody inside the firm. Any advice?

[Anonymous]

Bump

[Anonymous]

It's definitely to your advantage to use a contact within the firm. If I were you, I'd contact them shortly after busy season (after 3/31 for audit, 4/15 for tax). They have more time on their hands (and less work on their minds).

If you know the partner well, by all means, let him know. Use the audit lead if you aren't on a first name basis with the partner.

I think the traditional hiring season is the Fall; however, given that you have a contact within the firm, you should ask them about their hiring time frames and resource needs. I can't speak for a specific firm's resource requirements or practice segments.

Some practice segments get busy in the summer (those with 6/31 FYE). I think a lot of SOC1 and SSAE16 work is done ‘off-peak' as well.

[Anonymous]

Thanks billbraskey! I just emailed the lead auditor to get some info but I took your advice on not contacting the partners until after busy season.

[Author]

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