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Spotting Red Flags in Accounting Office Culture

“Unresolved corporate trauma is real. It’s not just about working hard—it’s about being valued and treated fairly.”
Workplace culture matters, especially in accounting firms, where long hours and tight deadlines are standard. In the latest episode of the Accounting ARC podcast, Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Liz Mason, CPA, explore red flags that accounting professionals should watch for when evaluating potential employers.
Red Flags in Technology and Processes
The trio emphasizes the importance of technological innovation. Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting, notes, “If firms are still operating with paper-based HR processes or outdated software, it’s a red flag.” Automating systems and embracing cloud technology are essential for efficiency and employee satisfaction.
The PTO Myth
Unlimited PTO sounds appealing, but as Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, explains, it’s often a trap. “Sometimes you really have to ask,” he questions, “Can you actually take PTO?” Policies that look good on paper may fall apart in practice, leaving employees overworked and burnt out.
Toxic Work Cultures
The team highlights the psychological toll of toxic environments, sharing personal anecdotes about supervisors taking credit for employees’ work or mandating all-nighters. Mason exclaims, “Unresolved corporate trauma is real. It’s not just about working hard—it’s about being valued and treated fairly.”
Top 10 Red Flags
The episode includes a humorous yet sobering top 10 list of accounting firm red flags, from mandatory Saturdays to unsustainable billable hour goals. Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder of TB Academy, summarizes, “There’s a lot of scar tissue in this profession, but recognizing these red flags can help you find a healthier workplace.”
By sharing their experiences, Mason, Patrick, and Shimamoto aim to empower accountants to demand better workplace standards.
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