Don't Limit Yourself with the Wrong Accounting Recruiter

Accounting is one of the few professions that relates to all organizations regardless of their size, type, or industry. Similarly, accounting is just as necessary and ubiquitous in both the public and private sectors. If you’re thinking of partnering with a recruiter, you’ll want to make sure they can guide you toward opportunities in both sectors, so that you don’t miss out on a job that is perfectly suited to your strengths and goals. To illustrate that fact, we’ve listed some of the pros and cons of both career paths below.

Public Sector Employment

Pros

  • Pensions – Pension plans are now rare in the private sector but still common in the public sector. Depending on your salary and tenure, you could end up with a substantial and dependable source of income later in life.
  • Benefits – Government benefits are often more expansive and generous than any found in the private sector. They are also less vulnerable to cuts and restrictions.
  • Security – Layoffs and cut backs do exist in the public sector, but they are uncommon, and in general these jobs are considered to be very secure even over the long term.

Cons

  • Salary – Accountants in the public sector tend to earn less than their private sector counterparts and have little hope of earning high six-figure compensation.
  • Advancement – Promotions are often tied to seniority, and vacancies can be rare. Ambitious accountants will find it difficult to move up the ladder quickly.
  • Incentives – Pay raises are often awarded on a schedule rather than being tied to performance, which can cause some professionals to lose motivation.

Private Sector Jobs

Pros

  • Salary – Compensation packages for stellar accountants can be quite generous and often include bonuses if certain targets are met, eliminating the ceiling placed on earnings.
  • Advancement – Ambitious organizations are eager to work with the best of the best. Accountants who deliver results will find ample opportunities to move into more senior positions.
  • Variety – Public sector accountants are often locked into a very narrow set of responsibilities. Their private sector counterparts enjoy a lot more variety in their day-to-day responsibilities and long-term career trajectory.

Cons

  • Pressure – Accountants who are not able to meet targets and achieve goals run the risk of being passed over for raises and promotions, or being terminated outright.
  • Obligation – Despite having a set schedule, many private sector accountants find themselves working extra hours and missing out on holidays if the demands of work require it.
  • Benefits – Accountants are typically offered some kind of benefits, but they may provide limited coverage and create high costs for the people accessing them.

No matter which sector you decide is right for you, make sure you work with a recruiter that specializes in both. Contact the team at The Squires Group to start finding opportunities everywhere.

 


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