Sucess Rate – Walking into Big 4 Office Looking for a Job

  • Creator
    Topic
  • #196112
    I Got This
    Participant

    Currently, I’m working in the private/industry field as a fixed asset accountant. I’m not a fan of it and would really like to go into public accounting as a entry-level tax associate. I’m a CPA, age 25, 1.5 years in private, and an internship in internal audit.

    Has there been anyone who walked into any of the Big 4 or regional firm offices and asked if there are any openings? If so, what did they say? Ex: Take a hike, apply online, security breach, etc.

    I’m asking because I feel like I’ll have better success at smaller firms.

    I’d love to hear your experiences.

    We can do this. It is a difficult journey, but it'll feel wonderful once we are done. Then at that time, we'll reap in all the benefits.

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  • #686956
    the LAST Coffee
    Participant

    Probably not “take a hike” but similar. “Please apply online.” It's not that you don't have the spirit or experience, but these firms prefer hiring through a system.

    I gave a friend who used to work at BDO my resume to hand over to the HR Director personally and got an email about how I need to apply online like everyone else.

    FAR 84 (AUG '15)
    BEC 83 (AUG '15)
    AUD 79 (OCT '15)
    REG 71, 78! (NOV '15, FEB '16)

    #686957
    UM1868
    Member

    My advice would be not to go to the office. Get the recruiters e-mail for that office or contact someone you know who works there (even if it is a different state). Once that person puts in a recommendation/referral, the process is sped up ten fold.

    Bec-76 (7/14)
    Aud-81 (8/14)
    Reg-82 (7/15)
    Far- 82 (10/15)

    Moral of the story, don't do your CPA while working in Big 4 Public Accounting.

    #686958
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    i dont think this would work. From my experiences, there is way too much security on every building (need access cards to get through gates, use elevators, open doors, etc) and there is no one just hanging around in the enormous offices that can just stop what their doing to accommodate a stranger. Best bet is to apply online or communicate with someone beforehand about an office visit

    #686959
    MaLoTu
    Participant

    You won't make it past the lobby without an appointment at most the firms that I have been to. Smaller firms included.

    Get a Premium account on Linked In and contact the recruiters directly. Ask for a phone call to discuss more about the culture and your career ambitions. Most the time they are willing to talk to you. They are preparing up for their busy season, so the sooner the better … if you are entry-level, anyway.

    Almost always from my phone... please excuse my typos!

    All 4 passed - 2016

    CA CPA

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