<p>I want to become a chartered accountant and Iam qualified academically for it. However, I have a friend who is currently a chartered accountant, and he tells me that it also involves going out to bars and drinking with partners, coworkers, and other accountants in other firms. Since I am not a drinker and prefer not to go to bars, I asked him if it was required. I was then told that it was an unspoken rule to go to bars and drink, and do whatever your coworkers wanted you to do, for example go to a rave. He told me that if you dont participate in these activities then you will get less cases, be gossiped about, and eventually fired.</p>
<p>I just want to know: is this truly the lifestyle of an accountant? If I am someone who is uncomfortable going to bars, clubs, and raves, is this career path not for me? Is it true that in order to become successful, alcohol and such nightlife is a must?</p>
<p>Rising through the ranks of the Big4 accounting ranks definitely takes the socializing and politicking that he’s speaking of. Most of those people (90%) won’t be working there in 2 years- thats just the nature of Big4 accounting. Its similar to ibanking in that its a very flat pyramid. However, in both the experience is invaluable.</p>
<p>There are many, many many more stereotypical accounting jobs that are nothing like this that will pay worse and be less fun if thats what you’re shooting for.</p>
<p>You are expected to socialize with your co-workers, clients, and partners at those firms. However, you can usually get away with having one drink and nursing it for quite a while. Or go up to the bar away from the group to get your drink, and get a ginger ale – they probably won’t even know it is not an alcoholic drink. And you can turn down most stuff like raves if they come up in most firms. We did a lot more stuff like ball games and concerts in suite boxes vs. stuff like raves (although I did know one all-male group that pressured group members to go to strip clubs, but I don’t think that happens much any more). You may actually find you enjoy some of it – I found I liked my co-workers at the professional firm I worked at and enjoyed going out with them more than I expected to. I did find client and partner activities more stressful, but didn’t do as much of those the first few years. I do know a young man who felt obligated to go out with his managers for sushi recently, something he didn’t really want to do (picky eater). He survived and is still with the firm. :)</p>
<p>And trust me… every accountant I know who is not (or no longer) with a big firm leads a very quiet lifestyle!</p>
<p>I knew that there has to be some socializing involved, but just wanted to know to what extent. I am all for hanging out and having fun, but due to personal reasons, I tend to limit my exposure to alcohol.</p>
<p>Thank you for your advice intparent! It is comforting to know that there are ways around it and that it won’t cost me my job. It also sounds like you have some awesome coworkers! I totally would go for ball games and concerts Thanks again for sharing your experience and advice!</p>
<p>You do not need to drink to keep your job. You may not have the same bond with co-workers as others, but that’s only one part of success. If you do good work and are well-liked you will do just fine without ever sharing a drink with a co-worker.</p>
<p>The proper approach is to let people know that you don’t drink at the time it is relevant (i.e. you are in a bar with co-workers or it comes up in conversation). Don’t be superior and don’t be embarrassed. It’s a simple fact, one of many parts of your individuality. Don’t be uncomfortable or contribute to anyone else feeling that way. You can still be well-liked in the office and potentially fun in an environment where others are drinking (although that is not necessary either). Feel free to offer designated driver services; it could make you an invaluable part of after-work socialization.</p>
Thanks again for sharing your experience and advice!</p>