As the end of the year is upon us, we’ve reached a critical time for hiring in the accounting and finance sector. Accounting professionals usually take this time to reevaluate their jobs and decide if they will make a career move or remain in their current role, while employers look to increase compensation and improve benefits to attract and retain top talent. As economists warn of a looming recession, you might be wondering if this is a good time to make a move in the accounting industry. Here’s what we’ve learned from some employers hiring right now:

No layoff threats

“While some industries may be experiencing a downsizing within several departments, hiring trends are very strong in the area of accounting,” says Mike Ruben, Senior Managing Director within Tandym Pro’s Accounting/Finance division. Accounting professionals should feel more confident in knowing that there are plenty of great job opportunities available to them right now. If you are interested in making a change or exploring the market, it’s about knowing where and how to look. For example, here are three accounting areas that are contributing to an increase in hiring, especially this time of year:

1. FP&A: Finance departments are hiring in early Q4 as they want to be fully staffed for the 2023 budgeting season.
2. Public accounting: After the 10/15 tax deadline, public accounting firms will use the remainder of Q4 to ensure their audit and tax groups are staffed in line with their client demands for busy season.
3. Corporate accounting: Accounting departments need to ensure they are fully staffed for the year-end close, while preparing for external auditors and tax accountants to come in after the holidays.

Remote vs hybrid work

During the pandemic, many businesses were mandated to close their physical offices – forcing employees to work from home. While some workers found their home environment distracting or struggled with an inconvenient set up, many thrived in their private and familiar settings, which also eliminated the need to commute and afforded more time for personal tasks.

“Employees who favor a fully remote work setting will find public accounting firms to be most accommodating,” says Mike. “Overall, however, we are seeing that industry corporate jobs are more likely to enforce a hybrid work environment.” Despite having to report to the office, employees are finding more flexibility in their workdays in this post-pandemic world and are not mandated to work within the confines of a strict nine-to-five schedule.

Job search priorities

When searching for a new role, create a list of your non-negotiables and priorities. It is important to know what you are looking for before you begin your search, to better align with opportunities that will be a good fit for both you and your future employer. It is also helpful when working with a recruiter that they understand your personal goals and objectives. “Since we work with a variety of accounting firms of all industries and sizes, we know the opportunities available in the market today,” explains Mike. “And I’m confident that whatever you’re looking for—whether that’s higher compensation or more flexibility—is out there right now. When you know what your top priority is for your next role, that makes it easier for us to match you with the right opportunity.”

To help yourself stand out and be seriously considered for a role, you must fine tune everything, from your resume to your interview performance. Here are some resources to help you get started:

• Perfecting your resume: You can’t get hired without a strong resume! Here are the core elements every accounting resume needs
• Advancing your certifications: In a competitive job market, your accounting certifications can help you stand out! Here are five certifications that can boost your professional value
• Partnering with recruiters: Having a relationship with an accounting recruiter can make all the difference in your career! Here’s how to get the most out of this partnership
• Acing remote interview processes: A remote hiring process can be trickier than expected. Ace your interview and land the job with these tips