Why now is the perfect time to make your move in Audit/Accounts
As we approach the final months of the year, many audit professionals start thinking about their next career step, typically going with the ‘New Year, New Me’ plan of attack. However, here’s why instead of waiting until 2025 and the typical January rush, I believe that making a move now could be the best decision you make. Here’s why:
Get ahead of the New Year competition
Come January, the job market is flooded with candidates looking to make a change, meaning more competition and potentially meaning you are having to wait longer for interviews to be scheduled and therefore, longer to receive an offer. By making your move now, you’ll be ahead of the curve, putting yourself in prime position. There is also a lot of people that take holiday in December and January, meaning that typically, interviews don’t start happening until a couple of weeks into January.
Settle in before Christmas
Starting a new role before the end of the year means you can get settled and familiar with your new team before the busy audit season kicks off in the new year. December is often a more relaxed period within firms, allowing you to transition smoothly, get to know your colleagues, and take part in the end-of-year socials and festivities. It’s a great way to integrate without the usual pressures.
Be Eligible for mid-2025 pay reviews
Joining a firm before the end of the year means you could be eligible for mid-2025 pay reviews. Instead of waiting another full year to see financial rewards from your career move, getting in ahead of time can put you in line for that next salary boost much sooner. The majority of firms are doing twice yearly pay reviews now, but you will have to have worked there for at least 4-6 months to be eligible, so getting in this year could be highly beneficial for you financially.
Could your new firm be more relaxed and give you the best end to the year?
December is known for holiday parties, team lunches, and other fun events that help employees feel more relaxed and congratulate them on a busy, successful year. Starting before the holiday season lets you experience the social side of your new firm, which might make it easier to bond with your new team.
On a 3-month notice?
We are now seeing typical notice periods of qualified candidates of 3 months, therefore if you were to hand your notice in next week, you would join a new firm at the start of December. Add the time it takes to complete interviews, which could involve multiple stages, an office visit etc, and before you know it, clients are pushing for you to start with them in January. Acting now can help to avoid this delay.
Interested in hearing more?
For more information and a confidential conversation, please get in touch with Graeme Davidson at Pro-Finance Recruitment on 07841 864239 or at Graeme.davidson@pro-finance.co.uk
