Should I stay or should I go?

Does it seem like everyone around you is starting a new role, or embarking on new challenges? It seems that way after the past couple of years in the Sydney accounting job market. Whether you’re curious about what a change could look like, or whether it’s worth staying put in your current role, there are a few key points to consider before hitting 'send all' on your resume.

So how long is too long in your accounting job?

• Have you had the opportunity to take on more duties? Has your role evolved in job duties and title over time?
• Have you been in the same position and had the same responsibilities for years without change?

If no extra responsibilities are forthcoming, you should voice your interest - nine times out of ten your boss would rather know you’re open to taking on more rather than leaving. Don't leave it to chance.

On the other hand, if you’re happy doing what you are doing, continue doing so. Keep in mind that being adaptable and open to change/development is still hugely important even if you decide to stay in the same role for many years.

Do you have a career roadmap at your current company?

If progression is an important consideration for you, is there currently room for growth where you currently work? Could you feasibly step up into a Senior Financial Accountant role, and then a Finance Manager role; or could you step across into FP&A. Uncovering whether these options exist before you make your mind up should be high on your priority list.

Consider your current salary and your salary expectations

Over the past couple of years as accounting recruiters in Sydney, we have seen a pattern of larger salary increases if you move businesses entirely. Those who remain in the same company still receive increases, but not at the same level. 

Consider your salary and job duties, versus the current market – and if you are unsure what the market looks like now, contact one of our recruitment experts for a confidential chat.

Consider what non-monetary benefits you receive alongside the pure salary:

• Do you have hybrid or flexible work-from-home options?
• Extra annual leave accrual or time-in-lieu?
• Does the company cover health insurance?
• Do they offer staff discounts on their products/services?

What do you want for yourself?

It’s easy to know what you don’t want, but having clarity on what you do want will help you to identify what you need from your current role, or whether you need to move to get it.

Perhaps climbing the corporate ladder isn’t for you; you might want to be a part of a stable team who are multi-skilled, and who operate like clockwork every month. 

You might want to develop specific skills like system implementations or ASX reporting. Or you might want flexible school hours so you can continue being a part of the kid’s schedules.

Everybody works for different reasons and gains something different from working (aside from getting paid). Figuring out your 'why' can go a long way in getting job satisfaction and choosing the right path.

Think about your working environment and culture

More than ever, the post-pandemic Sydney accounting world values having a great working culture above all. A full-time Accountant will spend at least 38 hours a week at work (and more during peak periods), so you want to be comfortable with your working environment. 

Some of the key things, people seek now in the workplace environment and culture are:

• Recognition and reward – Is there recognition for the work done, does the team celebrate wins and individual achievements? Is everyone encouraging and supportive? 
• Flexibility – Even if there is limited or no work-from-home, is there flexibility to go to the doctor on the odd day, or pick up a sick child from school?
• Trust and responsibility – Is there a level of trust in the team to hold themselves accountable; or is the team micro-managed?
• Social alignment – Do you get along with the people you work with? Even if you’re not hanging out on the weekends, is there a mutual, professional respect? Similar work ethics and standards?

Deciding whether to leave or stay in your job can pull on your emotions. If you find yourself wondering if the grass is greener, take the time to think about what is missing, ask yourself and make a considered decision. 

If you have exhausted all your options in your current situation it might be time for a change, and this doesn’t have to be a daunting and exhausting process. Working with a specialist recruiter and knowing your 'Why' can go a long way in making the job search process easier.

If you’d like help with your job search have a look at our job seeker toolkit or submit your CV here and one of our specialist accounting recruiters will be in touch.