Pros
The primary "Pro" is that we actually like each other here. With the White Plains office you get the smaller office feel with the advantages of working for a fast growing regional firm. As an office, we are able to interact outside of work which definitely boosts morale. We socialize outside the office even when it's NOT a firm sponsored event, which says a lot. But we also have fun through many different firm sponsored events like the Corporate Fun Run 5k, Happy Hours, The Soft Ball, Bowling Tournament , Birthdays of the Month Celebrations, Holiday parties, End of Busy season parties, and many other events. We do work hard...this is Public Accounting after all. But there is a nice balance of work and play which helps minimize the stress of Public Accounting.
Since the firm is growing so rapidly there are always new opportunities in practically every industry. The Westchester County area is a great market to work in. However we are also able to work with teams in other offices, in different cities which creates many more opportunities to explore any of the 24 service lines the firm offers.
The firm as a whole has a sincere focus on the professional development of the staff which is proven by the amount of time and money they invest in our technical training and soft skill training. We are encouraged and supported in our involvement with professional organizations and networking groups.
Finally, as I mentioned we do work hard, but our hard work is recognized. Whether its tickets to a sporting event, a free dinner, a cash award, or just a simple email of appreciation, our partners are great at acknowledging the work of the staff. As staff you feel like the work you do is important to the overall success of the firm, and that the partners are aware of the value of your work. There is a formal review process that happens twice a year, but it is nice to receive feedback on an informal basis.
Cons
The downsides of working here are the same as the downsides of working for any Public Accounting firm. Some things you just can not escape as long as you are working in Public Accounting, regardless of what firm you work for.
Time entry is probably the most important factor in making sure the firm is profitable - yet everyone hates to do it. And we do get constant reminders and sometimes warnings about time entry.
Also, typical of any Public Accounting firm, you work with different partners and reviewers who all have a different work preferences. It can be difficult to manage the varying expectations when you do work for so many different personalities. It can take some time to learn each person's preferences and you find yourself constantly adjusting. Once you build a work history with someone things runs smoother, but the time in between can be frustrating. Although the firm tries to institute uniform policies and procedures, the saying is true that old habits die hard. And of course when deadlines are approaching, everyone's work is a priority.
