In the final part of our New Year, New Challenge series, we’re exploring how talented accountants, like you, can challenge your mindset and set yourself up for success as the year progresses.
Accounting is a fast-paced sector where job requirements, client demands, and industry news is continuously evolving. As such, firms are competing to secure top talent that will add real value to their teams. This competition coupled with the ongoing skills shortage has created a challenging environment, especially for those searching for a new job.
What’s important to remember amidst the pressure of day-to-day deliverables, looming deadlines, and job searching is to ensure you’re keeping a positive and resilient mindset.
Of course this can be easier said than done, but focusing on maintaining good mental health is one of the best ways to strengthen your professional abilities and keep your goals on track.
Read on to explore some of the ways you can nurture a positive and proactive mindset as 2024 gets underway:
Find the right balance for YOU
It’s not always easy to find a good work / life balance when working in a deadline driven sector, and perhaps you’re feeling the pressure to go above and beyond to be considered for progression. But remember, you’re not a machine and you need rest. Even the top accounting leaders need a balance between work and personal time.
If pressure is coming from the top, voice your concerns and consider whether your firm is prioritising the wellbeing of its employees. It can be a tough conversation to have, but prioritising your health is the best way to work sustainably. In fact, employees who felt they had a good work / life balance have been proven to maintain motivation and have increased productivity than those who don’t.
Turn challenges into opportunities
The ability to turn challenges into opportunities is a crucial aspect of any accountants skillset, but do you utilise this skill when applying for a job? Job searching can be a daunting task, laden with challenges that require resilience and determination to overcome. One of the primary hurdles is the potential for rejection, which can be disheartening. However, individuals who successfully navigate the job search process recognise rejection as an opportunity to learn and refine their approach.
Maintaining a positive mindset, setting realistic expectations, and adapting to feedback are crucial components of overcoming the inevitable challenges encountered during a job search.
Compete against yourself, not others
It’s always tempting to compare ourselves to others and this is especially true when thinking about career development. Is someone with similar experience and skills as you currently working in a higher position? Does another candidate have greater experience in a subject area than you?
When job searching, it’s imperative to resist the temptation of comparing yourself to others and instead challenging yourself against yourself. The only achievements and goals that matter are those of your own career, so adopt a mindset that recognises your own hard work and is aligned to your own career path. Drawing comparisons can lead to unwarranted self-doubt and anxiety, hindering your confidence and focus during the job search process. Is your career on track for your own goals? If not, then that’s an opportunity for you to embrace.
Keeping a positive and proactive mindset during the job searching processes isn’t always an easy thing to do, especially when you’re trying to meet the expectations of your current role. This is where candidates often see the greatest benefit from working with the team here at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd. We do the hard part for you, identifying the most suitable opportunities and guiding you with preparation advice and interview tips. If you’re keen to find a new job in practice, contact the team today!
Missed the earlier parts of our New Year, New Challenge campaign? Visit the links below:
New New, New Challenge: Accountants, it’s time to challenge yourself
New Year, New Challenge: Challenge your skillset
New Year, New Challenge: Challenge your interview prep
New Year, New Challenge: Challenge your job search
Is it time to find a new role in practice? Explore some featured jobs we’re currently recruiting for or search through our jobs board for other opportunities.
Audit Senior job in Stoke on Trent: Full-time permanent role, £38,000 – £42,ooo pa.
Tax Senior job in Stoke on Trent: Full-time permanent role, £40,000 – £50,ooo pa.
Audit Partner RI job in Colchester: Full-time permanent role, £100,000 – £125,ooo pa.
Senior Accountant job in Colchester: Full-time permanent role, £40,000 – £50,ooo pa.
Audit Manager job in Oxford. Full-time permanent role, £40,000 – £65,ooo pa.
