By Michael Mintzer, CPA

Starting as a staff accountant in a public accounting firm is a challenging and exciting journey. Whether individuals are recent college graduates or making a career change, this journey requires significant commitment and often has a steep learning curve. The role demands technical skills, client relations ability, professionalism, and time management. While it may take one to three years to acclimate to the public accounting profession, mastering the skills mentioned can take decades. However, with proper guidance, new staff can thrive and reach their personal goals and aspirations. Here are a few strategies firms can incorporate to support their growth and promote long-term success.

Set Clear Expectations

Establishing clear, concise expectations upfront is vital to staff development. Firm policies, office etiquette, client-related tasks, etc., need to be consistently communicated and reiterated frequently. Public accounting involves a wide range of tasks and new staff bring varied experiences, so it is important to avoid assumption bias. By explaining the broader context of each task, leaders enhance proficiency and engagement. Clarifying the “why” behind assignments motivates staff and helps them see their role in the bigger picture.

Build Personal Connections

Fostering personal connections builds trust and loyalty, which directly impacts job satisfaction. A 2016 McKinsey study found that 86% of employee satisfaction in workplace relationships stems from connections with management.¹ Understanding each staff member’s personality, background, goals, and aspirations creates a supportive and open culture. This camaraderie boosts results and reduces employee turnover.

Offer Impactful Mentorships

Mentorship is essential in public accounting. New staff need reliable resources for performance feedback, questions, and career guidance. Trust is foundational for effective mentorship. When built, it helps mentors guide staff in prioritizing workloads, reducing stress, and promoting structured development.

Emphasize Data-Driven Accountability

Data is key to measuring productivity and performance. Reviewing daily timesheets, quarterly utilization rates, and budget-to-actual analysis help identify trends and evaluate contributions. Monitoring who staff work with also ensures they are paired with colleagues and clients who foster their growth. Regular analysis reinforces accuracy and financial discipline, aligning staff with broader firm goals.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career in public accounting can be daunting, but with the right support, new staff can quickly develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed. Clear expectations, personal connections, impactful mentorship, and data-driven accountability are vital strategies for nurturing their growth. By creating a supportive environment, public accounting firms can ensure both team success and long-term staff development.

¹ The Boss Factor: Making the World a Better Place through Workplace Relationships, McKinsey & Company (Sept. 22, 2016). 

Michael Mintzer, CPA, is a resource manager with Maillie LLP in West Chester, Pa. He can be reached at mmintzer@maillie.com.

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^{Statements of fact and opinion are the authors’ responsibility alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the PICPA's officers or members. The information contained herein does not constitute accounting, legal, or professional advice. For actionable advice, you must engage or consult with a qualified professional.}