Yes, public accounting is changing. Firms are offering the coveted work-life integration and fulfilling relationships that match what people want in the office of the future.

There are many different roles and specialties that accounting associates and certified public accountants can gravitate to, and not all of them include spreadsheets or QuickBooks.^® There is a misconception that it’s all math, that you sit at your desk 12 hours a day or work every weekend. There are more advisory and remote positions than most people realize. In today’s accounting careers, you can help businesses grow. You can help people reach retirement goals or increase the availability of affordable housing. You are making a difference in the world.

Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “…employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029…globalization, a growing economy, and a complex tax and regulatory environment are expected to continue to lead to strong demand for accountants and auditors.”

Accounting is also evolving with technology. Companies are making new tech for accountants that frees up their time to focus on client guidance, both for-profit and not-for-profit clients. There is a ton of opportunity for automation, and with that comes new kinds of accounting careers.

At Tidwell, you have so many opportunities to learn, grow and advance your career. I am so glad I get to be part of the associates’ dreams and we all get excited when they pass the CPA exam, get another degree or designation, or get a promotion. We also encourage them to utilize the flexible work arrangements and the well-deserved PTO. Our culture is about learning, growing and being the best we can be for clients, work peers and our families.” – Jen Zarins, Director of Learning and Development, Tidwell Group

With growth and determination comes opportunity, and with that comes flexibility, abbreviated schedules, family support, and working-from-home options that fit your life. Here is an example of the accounting office of the future from a Tidwell Group employee.

Having come from a larger, more corporate environment prior to Tidwell Group, I appreciate that there is actual sincerity when the firm talks about our flexibility. I also appreciate the fact that everyone’s unique identities and personalities are celebrated. The goal of the firm is not to try to fit us all into the same mold, but instead help us find ways to invest in each of our own unique talents.” – Jeremy Densmore, CPA, HCCP, Assurance Partner

Accounting Office of the Future

Welcome to the Accounting Office of the Future. Interns and experienced professionals alike say they love our culture and environment. With several offices (Austin, TX, Charlotte, NC, Tampa, FL, Birmingham, AL, Atlanta, GA, and Columbus, OH), we have connected different cultures and time zones across the country. We’ve grown to understand the needs and expectations of many intelligent and caring individuals in the process. This helps us shape our office spaces to grow with our evolving candidates and coworkers.

Our new Lenox Park office, which officially opened in January 2023 in Buckhead, is a perfect example of the Accounting Office of the Future. Light-filled lounges and meeting spaces lead out to 32 acres of green space. Each team and team member can find their preferred work area to collaborate or to focus in. In addition, there are designated places to unplug and take a break.  There is a large kitchen area and game room lounge available to relax and recharge, or a walk through the park may be the choice to get in that mid-day exercise. State-of-the-art technology helps us transition easily from office to home and back again.

Some firms are highly competitive, and even their best team-building attempts can sometimes go awry, leaving some team members chagrined while another is awarded praise. Cultivating a culture where everyone is equally mentored, coached, and allowed to grow into positions where strengths are developed, you get to do what you love (and learn more about yourself at the same time) – that’s what we’re all about.

We are small enough that we share our lives and celebrate with you on your pet’s birthday, but we’re also one of the fastest-growing firms in America. So how do we maintain that balance? We have a specially coordinated process where teams work closely with one another and ensure everyone is given the opportunity to move laterally, vertically, or even build upon their current position if the opportunity calls for it.

We have an open door of hospitality.  Anyone can come in and grab a snack, whether you are a visitor or taking a tour as a high school or college student.  Friends and family members are often seen having lunch together in our kitchen and dining areas. Each person feels welcome, and their unique differences are not inhibited by the dress code.  We have a ‘Dress for your Day’ policy that allows for employees’ discretion to select the appropriate dress for the business of each workday, whether that’s a suit and tie, athletic wear, or your favorite comfy clothes. Come and see for yourself who we are and what we are all about; give us a call, and we will make it possible for you to come in and see how we work and strive to make a difference for our clients.

L.E.A.D. Summer Leadership Program

Once each year, we provide college students the opportunity to apply for our two-day L.E.A.D. (Leadership Engagement Appreciation Development) program. This summer program shows you what it’s like to be a part of the Tidwell Group team and gives you a chance to stand out among other candidates.

As Tidwell Group’s corporate recruiter, I visit schools and talk to students about their career opportunities in public accounting. I also kickstart our summer leadership program that is a united effort of our team to reveal to others what Tidwell Group has to offer and what becoming a CPA is all about. I am not a CPA, but I am helping to shape the future of the accounting industry!”  – Avery Perry, Corporate Recruiter, Tidwell Group

Applying to our summer leadership program is simple, whether through the Google form on our website or the QR code on our campus flyers. During the Summer Leadership Program, we talk about how to grow as a leader in the public accounting industry, the intern selection process, give students the opportunity to socialize with our partners and experienced professionals, show off our space and invite everyone to experience our culture. This is an opportunity to dive deep into the various lives of our accountants, and then we give you the knowledge to help you land the job of your dreams, regardless of your preferred firm choice.