Isabelle He: Pros and Cons of Beginning a Career in the Big 4
If you are an accounting or AIS major at SCU, you’ve probably heard of the “Big 4”. They recruit frequently at SCU and provide great career development opportunities, but whether they are the right fit for you depends on your personal goals and preferences. Here are some elements to consider.
The Big 4 accounting firms need little introduction. Deloitte, EY, PwC, and KPMG are the four largest professional service firms in the world that provide audit, tax, consulting, and advisory services. With their global network of offices, the Big 4 provides these services to a wide range of clients across various industries. Beginning your career at one of these firms can open many professional doors and help you develop a wide range of skills. Since the Big 4 firms are among the most well-known and respected companies in the accounting industry, having worked there can significantly increase your marketability. The Big 4 also invests heavily in employee training and development. As a new associate, you will experience an exponential learning curve that pushes you to expand your learning capability. You will likely gain exposure to diverse business operations and financial situations. The Big 4’s global networks also provide opportunities to work abroad or travel for international assignments. International working experience expands your professional network, helps you develop cross-cultural competence, and makes you more competitive in today’s globalized economy. Another valuable benefit of starting your career at a Big 4 firm is the networking opportunities. The Big 4 firms employ many talented professionals from varied backgrounds and experiences. The potential pros of working at a Big 4 firm differ from person to person. This is by no means a comprehensive list. It is vital to research the specific firm and role you are interested in and ask questions about the culture, workload, and opportunities during the interview process in order to gauge your own suitability.
The hours at Big 4 firms can be demanding, especially during the busy season. Employees handle high volumes of work under tight deadlines. Many employees work evenings and weekends during the busy season. The fast-paced environment stimulates learning, but can also be high-pressure. The large size of Big 4 firms can lead to high competition for promotion and advancement. Also, they generally have a more hierarchical structure compared to small and mid-sized firms which could lead to limited mobility and less direct client interaction for some associates. My best advice is to do your own research, talk to people in different positions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.