The Path to Partnership in Accountancy: Navigating Moving Goal Posts
As we approach the end of the year, it’s natural to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved, unless, of course, you’re too busy pulling your hair out over the goals that haven’t happened. If the partnership target still feels like a distant dream, don’t worry, you’re far from alone. Many of us are out here, in the same position, wondering if the goal posts have not only moved but are now somewhere in a completely different stadium.
In the accountancy world, reaching Partner status is often considered the holy grail. More responsibility, more influence, more money (make it rain!). But for some, the path to partnership feels less like a straight line and more like an obstacle course.
So, what do you do when the journey towards partnership feels like it’s slithering off-piste?
Why Do the Goal Posts Keep Moving?
Here’s the thing, partnership isn’t just about being really good at what you do and then waiting for the next step. Oh, if only it were that simple. The reality is the road to the top can be derailed by all sorts of factors. The firm could restructure, shift strategy, or face economic pressures that push promotions down the priority list.
And let’s not forget internal politics, sometimes it’s not about how good you are, but whether you’re the right person at the right time. If your business case keeps getting pushed to the bottom of the pile, it can feel like secondary school PE, watching everyone else get picked before you (Aye, it still hurts). So, what can you do when it feels like the finish line keeps disappearing?
…Are You Happy to Wait?
One option is to wait it out. Maybe the delays are temporary, and the firm is simply facing a few bumps in the road. If you’re still passionate about the firm’s direction, you might want to stay the course, refining your skills and continuing to demonstrate your value.
But it’s important to ask yourself - Are you still excited about the firm’s future, or have you been waiting so long you’re starting to wonder if the goal posts have been permanently moved off the field?
…Making the Most of the Extra Time
If you do decide to stay, don’t let the waiting game go to waste. Use the extra time to build relationships, mentor junior staff, or take on more responsibility. Position yourself as indispensable, because when that partnership opportunity finally comes around, you want to be the person everyone turns to and says, “Well, obviously, it’s got to be them!”
Use the time to sharpen your skills, expand your client base, and even bring in new business. Think of it as an extended job interview, where the more you demonstrate your worth, the more irresistible you become when the firm finally remembers it’s time to make you a Partner.
What Else Could Be Out There?
The world of potential is massive, and there’s a whole range of firms out there, from giants to boutique practices, all offering different opportunities for partnership, or even leadership roles that might align more closely with your personal goals and values.
Exploring opportunities outside your current firm doesn’t mean you’re yeeting yourself off the ship immediately, but it does help to keep your options open. Speak to peers, network with others in the industry (*cough* specialist recruiters), and evaluate firms that align with your values and ambitions. Sometimes, the right opportunity might be just a phone call away.
What’s Next for You?
As we wrap up the year, now’s the perfect time to reflect on your career trajectory. If you feel like the goal posts are always shifting, it’s time to assess whether your current firm is the right place to achieve your goals. You can choose to stay and wait, or you might decide that a change of scenery is just what’s needed.
The road to partnership may not be as clear-cut as we'd like, but your career should be a fulfilling journey that aligns with your values and long-term ambitions. Whether you stay or slay, make sure your next step is a deliberate one.
Are you ready to make that leap? Or are you still debating whether it's time to update your CV? Either way, we’d love to hear from you.
