Onboarding processes vary from firm to firm. The Selden Fox rotational program offers new hires a chance to work in each of the firm’s departments: accounting solutions, tax, and audit. Below is a short summary of my experience with the Selden Fox rotational program.
Opportunities
Among the many opportunities for new employees, the most important is a chance to build on strengths and improve upon weaknesses. Initially, projects may seem daunting but in retrospect it is clear each project is a stepping stone for the next. I found that working within each department provides opportunities to network with the members of each department – a feature often not customary in larger firms. As an auditor, we are expected to know tax implications of transactions in which our clients participate. Having tax experience and building relationships with the tax department will enable us to provide more informed answers to our clients. Further, having experience in other departments gave me a chance to build rapport with officers and managers, presenting opportunities to work on more projects. The program also allowed me to grow accustomed to the basic day to day operations of the firm. It sounds simple but it has certainly increased my confidence.
Surprises
Based on my prior work experiences, I did not expect such a conducive learning environment. The experienced employees at Selden Fox understand and appreciate that new associates are learning how to apply the knowledge they gained in school. They are willing to provide guidance and make time to teach while working. During college, I also wondered how much of the accounting classroom learning I would actually use once I started working. Put simply, I use what I learned in those classes every day.
I was also surprised about the wide variety of clients we service. Being able to work with a variety of clients has made me a more versatile accountant from the start.
Lessons
There are new lessons to be learned each day. One of the first lessons I learned is that deadlines will not always be clear. When given multiple projects, asking clarifying questions and understanding what is a priority is crucial. I also learned that work will not just fall onto my desk. It is imperative you are proactive in seeking work. One way to be proactive is to look ahead on the audit schedule and ask the senior or manager if there is any work that can be done in preparation for an upcoming engagement (there usually is!). If not, reading the prior year financial statements and notes for an upcoming engagement you are assigned on is a good use of time. This will give you a head start to understanding what to expect during the audit.
Article by Andrew Miller who joined Selden Fox in 2016 and is an associate in the audit group.
