How to Get Noticed for Promotion in Your Accountancy Firm
Strategic advice for ambitious professionals in practice
In the bustling world of accountancy, it's easy to get caught up in client deadlines, compliance changes, and technical detail, but if you’re aiming for progression, it’s essential to step back and take control of your own career trajectory.
With Glastonbury heralding the start of summer festivities and this week marking Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day, there's no better time to reflect on your professional goals. Whether you're in a small firm or a Top 20 practice, one truth remains: promotion doesn’t happen by accident. It takes visibility, strategy, and confidence.
So, how can you stand out and secure that next step up?
1. Show Up and Be Seen
Doing good work is a given, being noticed for it is where many accountants fall short. It’s not about bragging; it’s about ensuring your efforts are visible. Regularly share wins in team meetings, contribute ideas during discussions, and ensure your achievements are part of your appraisal conversations. Be your own best advocate, professionally and constructively.
2. Act Like a Leader Now
One of the clearest paths to promotion is to demonstrate leadership before you have the title. This could mean mentoring junior colleagues, taking ownership of client relationships, or being the first to volunteer for a new internal initiative. When decision-makers see you already thinking and acting like a manager or partner, you're far more likely to be considered when the time comes.
3. Seek Feedback and Apply It
Promotion doesn’t just happen because you've been around long enough. It happens when you demonstrate growth. Regularly ask for feedback from your line manager and peers, and show that you can act on it. This shows emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a commitment to development, which are all key qualities for future leaders.
4. Stay Technically Sharp
The accountancy profession is evolving rapidly, with automation, data analytics, and advisory services changing the game. Staying on top of CPD, understanding the latest tech, and anticipating client needs can make you invaluable to your firm. Be the person who’s always one step ahead.
5. Let Your Ambitions Be Known
Don’t assume that senior leadership knows you’re keen to progress, tell them! Have regular career conversations with your manager. Ask what competencies or experience you need to gain to be considered for the next level. Then map out a clear plan and follow through with action.
Why This Matters for Small Businesses Too
This week also marks Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day, celebrating the critical role SMEs play in economies across the world. If you’re working in or with an SME practice, opportunities for promotion may look different, but they are no less impactful.
In smaller firms, stepping up might mean managing a broader portfolio, becoming the go-to tax expert, or taking the lead on business development. These environments often offer more autonomy and faster progression, you just need to seize the opportunity.
Support for Your Career Journey
Whether you’re gunning for promotion or figuring out where to go next, don’t forget, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our dedicated Facebook group for practice professionals. It's a supportive space filled with resources, conversations, and insights to help you thrive in your accountancy career.
👉 Join our exclusive candidate group here
Promotion is not a waiting game. It’s a proactive process that requires clarity, confidence and consistent effort. Whatever stage you’re at, now is the perfect time to reflect, reset and take bold steps towards the career you truly want.
If you’re ready to talk strategy, explore opportunities or simply get some no-nonsense advice, drop us a message. We’re here to help you build the career you deserve.