Big4 vs A Small Accountancy Firm
Choosing the right firm for you is a very important decision as you are likely to remain at this firm for at least 3 years whilst you complete your professional accountancy qualification.
When choosing which accountancy firm to do your training at, it might be tempting to apply for the Bi4 - and why not? There are however lots of advantages of training at a smaller firm, and of course, this does not prevent you from moving to a bigger firm in the future.
Benefits of Training at a Big4 Firm
Prestige and Reputation which can open doors for you in the future (it looks good on your CV!)
Opportunity to work with high-profile clients. This brings with it high pressure but great experience
Clear career path and opportunities to work abroad. Often the career ladder is huge (many tiers) but it’s clearly laid out and there are offices all over the world so opportunities for secondments abroad
Comprehensive training and development. The Big4 have well-established business schools for CPD, gaining additional qualifications and developing yourself
Extensive professional network. The Big4 are called ‘big’ for a reason. They have around 20,000-30,000 employees in the UK therefore there is ample opportunity to develop a strong professional network
Higher salaries and extensive benefits packages. It’s likely you will receive a higher salary at the Big4 compared to a small firm and a more comprehensive benefits package including bonuses, private health and life assurance schemes
Benefits of Training at a Small Accountancy Firm
More client interaction as a junior. Working with smaller clients in smaller teams means you can have more hands-on client-facing experience
Broader exposure to different tasks and projects. Being in a smaller firm allows you to be more involved in activities across the firm from marketing to recruitment and pitching to financial reporting
Easier access to senior staff. There tends to be less of a hierarchy in smaller accountancy firms which means senior individuals are more accessible and approachable
Better hours and more flexible hours. Big4 have a reputation for long and unpredictable hours (especially in external audit). You are likely to have more autonomy over your time at a smaller firm and smaller clients can mean better hours
Close-knit, supportive culture. Small firms are likely to have a more supportive culture and less-strict exam policies which is obviously excellent news if you are studying a qualification under a training contract
Greater visibility which could lead to more rapid progression. Smaller teams means greater visibility for you which could in turn lead to quicker progression through the ranks
Let us know what you think about these benefits in the comments!
