The CPA license is VITAL to your accounting career.
Don’t let others tell you otherwise
Over the last few years I have met many accountants from different firms and companies. Some, insist that the CPA license is optional for a successful career in accounting. Whether you work in public accounting or private industry, I’m here to tell you the CPA is VITAL to your success. Anybody who tries to convince you otherwise is doing you a huge disservice.
Moving up
My first job out of college was with a top 10 accounting firm in the NYC metro area. During my time with the firm I worked with a lot of great people. Some of them were very competent and capable accountants but lacked the CPA license and were unable to be promoted beyond Senior. Most accounting firms won’t promote you to manager without the CPA and some of the larger firms won’t even promote you to Senior without it.
If you stay at the same position for too long, you will either get let go and replaced or eventually be priced out of the market because you will be getting raises every year but receive no growth in experience or responsibilities. I know plenty of people who are stuck because of these reasons.
Don’t limit yourself
Since becoming a recruiter this fact as only become more apparent. You do not want to be overlooked for a promotion or new role simply because you do not have the CPA. Even when a CPA is not required, opportunities are very competitive, those with the license are often offered the position over those who lack it.
The CPA license isn’t only for public accounting. Even if you work or plan to work in private industry, the CPA is still highly sought after and sometimes required.
The bottom line
The bottom line is here that if you intend to make accounting a career, you better get the CPA license. It’s just not something you want holding you back or limiting your options.
Helpful Tip
When I took the CPA exam I used the Ninja Notes found on http://www.another71.com/ to pass the exam. I believe in the notes so much I reached out to the creator to get readers of my blog a special offer! If you make a purchase from the site you can email jeff@another71.com and tell him Thomas Castelli sent you for a free gift!
