Is switching to a regional (6 offices) firm from big 4 a career step back? Looking to leave, lots of smaller firms interested but worry it’s a backwards move.

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Everyone who has come to our regional firm from a Big 4 has actually been shocked at the caliber of our clients, how much interaction you get with clients at an early level, and how you get to see all aspects of the returns. The pay is also competitive with the Big 4 and benefits are a bit better (hello, unlimited PTO) because we have to compete with the big 4.

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I personally this it is a backwards move but it also very much depends on your reasons. At the end of the day you gotta do what’s gonna make you happy

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Said another way, most people in Big 4 perceive it as a step down. Probably not the case. Maybe even a step up. Some boutique firms (truly boutique) serve very high profile clients and engagements.

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You are over-qualified for those smaller ones

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It really depends. I came from a one office firm to PwC. I had much more responsibility, with just as reputable clients (maybe even more so). It was a step down in responsibility, but a step up in pay.

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It's absolutely NOT a step down. Only way it could be considered that is if you plan on eventually going industry for say a multinational corporation. There is so much opportunity in small firms (regional and even local firms). It's just different opportunity.

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I left Deloitte after 4 years to join BDO. Best decision I've ever made!

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Probably, but if you hustle you'll still have the same opportunities

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Yeah it's a step down.

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What level are you? What is your career goal long term? If you want to be a partner then go to the smaller firm, if you eventually want to move into industry then stay with Big 4.

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It depends on your goals and desires. Are you achieving your endstate objectives?

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The move is a double edged sword...like others have said: 1) backwards if your goal is to later work for the Apple’s of the world yet, 2) great move if you want public to be your LT career of choice

Can you elaborate the 2nd? What’s LT?

Tax Associate 1 what firm are you with?

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