Thank you for this honest video. I always thought big four culture to be kind of toxic but most of the chartered accountants talk with pride about their work experience there. Kudos to you ❤️
I was working at big 4, i survived actually for 1.5 years, felt like you are telling my story, i used to cry every single day and everyone who will be reading the comment just know that in the moment you will feel,may be i am not having enough knowledge,may be i am lacking but no if you are in toxic environment you will feel in just some weeks only , try to gather all your thoughts basically why you are doing the job ,do you really want to do ,do you have really any area of interest if not then do quit and start to analyse what career you actually and what job will actually fit you well 🤞
It’s exactly what I’m going through right now. I have such toxic seniors and managers that are really unsupportive and would unnecessarily yell at you. I joined here with hope of doing my best as it’s my first job but I’ve lost all my spark and just want to resign.
Extremely relatable! Worked in one of the Big 4 for a year as an article trainee (joined a week just before lockdown 😭🤦♂️). There's literally no work life balance even after having work from home. Nobody cares about you unless it comes to work. Always chasing deadlines and closing the engagements. I was not learning anything new which would have a value addition from academics point of view or professional point of view. Worse of all, health took a serious toll. I have taken the bold decision to leave EY and joined in a smaller firm. Very much satisfied that I took the right decision.
Hey Sai Sirish, How are you now? I have read your answers on quora many time. It's disheartening that you have to face all this. I hope you are doing well now! Take care!
Exactly, no work life balance, I recently joined BDO at forensic audit as a complete fresher, I am an intern so the point you shared about not fully compensated feel so real! On my first day they assigned me work , thinking i know everything ( I clearly mentioned in my interview that I was a fresher and never worked in this field) I worked till 10 at night on my first day and the next day I started at 9 and was working till 7 and still my senior was expecting me to work more hours , I literally lied and told her that I have another part time job from 7-9 at night so I cannot extend beyond 6:30 but I have compensate the time by starting at 8 in the morning!! Literally I have friends who take pride in working long hours with no work life balance, I legit don’t understand them
The fact that it is relatable to so many people in the comment section is enough to conclude that things like these aren't an exception, but the actual reality of their culture. Either you be like them or leave them, there is no midway.
My manager speaks to me in a way as if I owe him 16 hours of my day. Review starts after 9PM and it goes on till midnight. I quit my job in 2 months. 90% of the things she spoke is what I faced from Day 1 as a qualified. I am confident on my work and my capabilities and I know that the Big 4 will extract your soul to get the work done. Will explore a good job role now.
Soo true, its just been 3 months and I am not able to come to terms with this toxic culture and bizarre expectations. Seriously stuck - and amidst corona I’m confused to take this call to quit.
Thanks for such an honest video on your experience at the big4. I myself have worked at both the big4s that you mentioned and have had similar experiences. It’s unbelievable how employees are treated as mere “resources”!! I left the big4 after about 7 years and started my own venture..and I have to put it out there..I didn’t ever learn as much at the big4 as I did by trying to build my own venture! They expect you to work on a certain domain in a certain industry and there is this pre-defined xyz process and presentation format for everything which in the end really limits your outlook to see the business/industry as a whole! Having said that, the entire experience did hone my leadership skills and helped develop my overall personality but that’s about it! I have some sour memories and would not recommend staying there for long other than maybe in the initial years of your career! Whats sad is that in the industry as a whole, having a big4 badge is considered a big deal and does act as a stepping stone! Hope to change this one day.
Currently, as an article in Mid-size firm I am facing similar challenges, I used to regret why I didn't not wait for 6 months and clear the other group to join Big 4. Thank you for opening my eyes didi. It will help me in better decision. You are just awesome! ♥️
Hey, this is literally so me. I was in the exact same position but this things happened me in small firm . My mental health was at stake. In was anxious every second and couldn't stand for myself. I always thought that why can't I be a people pleaser just like others, just hated myself. But finally i stopped giving a damn to what were they gossiping about me and so i m a bit of relaxed now. And here ur video pops up which is giving me a warmth of i m not the only one. Please make a video on ur development of confidence. And yes now i perceive u as an idol that if u can come out of that shit and grow so better so could I . Lots of love didi🥰
@@nirvibhayani42 Hii You are so so strong . Thankfully I m out of that shit now. Not that they stopped playing mind games with me but now I learnt my worth take every day as blessing. Now I m no more anxious. Yes some time I do get that same old feeling of being depressed nd what if people see me as a fool but then why should it matter what they think about me. My family nd close friends know the real me. And so might b in ur case. Believe me u'll get out of this really soon. If I can so why can't u. I believe in u. My damn strong girl. Would b praying for u to my krishna wherever u r. May krishna bless u. Jay shree Krishna. ❤
Thank you so much for your honest and candid experience, Mehar! You hit the nail on the head describing the experience as many of my friends and I have endured the same things you’ve gone through as well. You’re so brave for sharing your story and empowering all of us to take that necessary step to leave for our mental and physical health. I can’t thank you enough for this.
I Can’t agree more!! Thank you so much for sharing your honest experience. I am currently working in one of the big 4 and I can absolutely relate to everything you talked about. This is my first job and I was a new hire with no prior experience, and I feel the same way you described in the video. Also thanks a lot for talking about mental health, since I have started feeling disturbed due to my job I am planning to quit real soon. I too feel I do not belong here. I am glad to be a part of your fam ☺️
Hi Mehar, I'm first time watching ur video and after seeing ur video I could feel u are saying my story. Even I was fascinated with big 4 in my college. I was fortunate enough to clear my interview in one of the big 4. I was hired as Tax Consultant but due to toxic work culture, unbalanced work life, pressure to work 55hrs per week etc. I decide to quit the job within 6 months. Now I learning new skills and trying to build a good career by starting fresh again. I could very much relate with this video. This is my story as well!!!
I did my articleship in a mid-sized firm. It was not as bad as the Big4 but I felt that I didn't belong.. I got into teaching as soon as I completed my articleship and I have not been happier :)
This is an absolute eye opener! Pls do share your experience after leaving the Big 4 and something about your current job, it would be highly helpful! You’re my inspiration! 🤗♥️
This video will be an Eye - opener for many of the aspirants..Thank you Mehar for enlightening on this subject, I will be sharing the same who reach out to me whether they should join the big 4 or not ! At-least they will be knowing whether they are mentally prepared for it or not because this is what actually is there !
Likewise, I think every one of us from the same course are facing the same issues. We as a student at age of 20, are not capable enough to understand what are we meant for! Plus the age from 20-22 is the most precious age band to learn about ourselves and to make life changing decisions. When we start working, then we explore and understand the real potential and interest of oneself. Your story is so relatable to most of us working at same position. Thanks for sharing. I hope your mental health has recovered and wish you best for your success.
It needs a lot of gut to speak up and being so honest. The more I see you, the more I'm inspired ma'am. So honest, so candid and you literally just make all of us feel like it's okay to feel a very certain way! ❤️ Lots of love to you ma'am. Thank you so so much for this superb amazing video. 🤩 Yes, you should certainly be more youuuu, cause that inspires us the most 😍
Well done Mehar, You did the right thing in the right time and you rightly said, what is the use of such money if your mental health is suffering. After watching this video, I felt that you are the real person who is successful in her life and give honest advice to others. Thanks for making such videos and you inspired a lot to us.
Hey Mehar! First of all hats off to the courage you have to speak about your fears openly. Me being a CA final student i could totally relate to each and everything you said . i never enjoyed audit or taxation. It would really be helpful if you make more videos on identifying the right career n dealing with office politics. You're such an inspiration so many people out there. Keep up the great work.
This was such a fresh and honest perspective on the big4s...... thank you for widening all of our vision and showing us the "big" picture. More love and support to you mam! :)
So so brave of you to come forward and speak about it. Absolutely loved that you spoke it with utmost honesty and shown a clear picture about what the reality is. I somehow knew about this extreme work conditions from my friends and I took a decision that I will not sacrifice on my mental health and I joined a decent mid-size firm which has the bestest work environment and culture. But there was this thing in my mind that It would have been more better to join Big4s as they pay you more than mid-sizes. But now after watching this video, I again came to the point that whatever the payout maybe, you should not compromise on your mental health. You have to put yourself ahead of everything else. Thank you for this eye opening video! 😄
I always find my friends working at a big four complaining about the same issues. It really doesn't feel like a good environment to be working in for short term let alone a longer one. Thank you for putting in the effort to guide us. It really helps in making career choices
Mehar! You're such an inspiration! My love and respect toward you keeps increasing day by day through your videos. Thank you so much for such open talks on your experiences, I bet each one of us would feel low and go through such issues, but learning from them and becoming a person who inspires others is what matters and I'm learning that from you! You are such a great personality ❤️Glad to know you❤️ Much love and power to you❤️
Thank you for telling the honest experience.....not everyone has that courage to talk about their mental health and the hardships they have faced during their articleship in big 4.
Did my articleship at a mid size firm.. the pressure to meet deadlines was just like she mentioned. Would have to work overtime too but the work environment was very warm and supportive
This really helped. I am stuck in the same situation and this is what I needed to hear. A reflection. Needed to know that I am not the only one. Thank you for being candid.
Thank you so much ma'am for making this video ❤️This video just touched my heart ❤️ Your 2nd project in KPMG and all events aligned to is something i am going through currently💯❣️
I totally feel u... I am from a science side...Gone through the same feeling in another audit firm with no knowledge of accounting But i came to be among the best in that toxic environment...Learned so much there... Independence, personal develpment, knowledge But I left the job... Completed my ACA studies and now trying to find a job...Though I so want to be an entrepreneur.... Living a happy life 😉
This is exactly my situation right now. I don't work at big 4 but I am currently working at one of the top 7 firms. When I started off with my CA journey I was motativated and enthusiastic about my career but as soon as I entered work force, the motivation kind off started withering off. That vigour started to get lost. Initially, I joined an Indian firm wherein there was no proper audit procedure and auditing was just manual work of checking bank statements etc. The bosses and seniors were mostly were unsupportive and unprofessional. Then I got excited to join my current firm. It felt good initially but again after a week or so the environment became worse. That boy of 22 who is all new and confused got even more confused and depressed. The feeling of helplessness is real. Even my stipend is deducted without them informing me the reason. I feel difficult to concentrate on my studies although I am trying my best. I always had a dream to join big4 in transfer pricing department but now I really need to reconsider my decision. Thanks ma'am, for this candid video, I can totally relate with you. I hope this helps other budding professionals as well. Thanks again!
I can very much relate to what you just said. I was in a corporate job (internal audit) in 2021 and I was really liking it but still wasn't satisfied. In Oct, Deloitte came knocking on my door with a package and a location so lucrative that one just couldn't say no. But when I got to know about the work culture BIG-4 has, I knew I'll lose myself as a person. They called me several times to come join them but in the end, it wasn't for me. I am a CMA and luckily the education has kept me in a job. Now I work for a university as their Chief Auditor (and I am loving it here) and looking forward to getting my PhD started.
Hi mehar, thankyou so much for sharing this, whatever you have said about work being monotoneous and it starts affecting our mental health, currently i am going through a similar situation in my articleship, since past 1.5 years i have almost worked in gst department and other departments when there were last dates and deadlines, they are actually using me and thinking of me as a replacement of their past employee who used to do all work in just 9k and now they are making me file gst returns of 160+ clients, the mental stress is unbearable that i want to die now, and now they dont have anyone else to do their gst and i am going to say no for this work because if i wont say no they are going to keep.exploiting me. This video is giving me hope now that i will be able to survive.
Also i always wanted to be a CA, even though i am in a small firm who are friends of my cousin, they are constantly taking advantage of me, giving all the clients my number, msging me on whatsapp since morning to night and plus On a SUNDAY too, My mother is always worried about me because end up crying whenever i come home, and now i can not tolerate anymore, articleship is not slavery.
Same happened with me in my school-days. I remember when I was in 9th standard I used to be beaten up and got scolded by my mathematics teacher just because I used to take maths tuition classes from another teacher( his rival). That all this beating and disrepect had hit me so hard that I started hating Mathematics and School including my school- friends who used to make a fun of me. My self esteem became zero. Later on I changed my school eventually. This whole incident still traumatized me. Even at this time I really don't like to get along with friends who were there at that time. I know how it feels like in a company or a circle where you are constantly judged, mistreated by people who you thought to be your well-wisher once. But it's good to come out of it strongly, take a exit from those toxic people and be brave enough to take your stand when it seems the whole world is against you.
extremely relatable. i had literally no training on the job when i was on the audit. Its all look back in past papers, which were done poorly looking back, and try to do it yourself.
Wow, I really had a very nice boss. He was so sweet, encouraging and always took care of us. He never forced us to work overtime, instead requested us if there was a need.
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion as it made me feel that i was not the only one going through it. I was blaming myself for not reaching their expectations, but later realised that it wasn't my fault instead it's their's for not providing proper guidance and i quit the firm. But it was too late and by the time i quit, my health got severely damaged both mentally and physically :(
So fucking relatable. I have worked for 2 of the big 4 that you haven't worked in. easy to guess? Let me tell you you have narrated my story in the video. Thank you
We always have our problems.. but don't compare that we also have our problems See I'm doing my industrial training in 3rd year , I know my 80+ hours in my frst 2 years are no match with 40 hours schedule In corporate world , we always have deadlines for every project and the office politics makes life even harder. Articles mein aap ka kaam aap hi karegaa , thoda late hua toh , boss chillayega bas But here if you are not giving your 120% or meeting deadlines , you will knockdown , there will be 40-50 articles , you are easily replacable ,. That's a horrific nightmare , everyday constant pressure , you don't know that feeling in your 80+ things , so please stop comparing , please spread positivity
Hi Mehar, i could completely relate with your experiences🙂.. the same thing may happen in mid and small CA firms also.. I really appreciate the way you honestly shared your experience.. Would really be helpful for students.
That's so true, the overall key is to have a good manager in big4 (which we have zero control on), if you don't then it would be tough to survive. Having overall 4 years in big4 consulting, I can say, you learn from end to end how to run a project at very junior level. However, mental health should be our first priority, and I would suggest being your own advocator if you are working in big4.
I am now old. I trained in a small firm in London and took a job at what was one of the big 8 firms in those days. In some ways it was the best experience of my life. In 1985 I audited one of the accepting houses. In that year the City went through a revolution. But the problem came with a small bank. I was left on my own as the senior staff saved a major client from a hostile takeover. I suffered badly and was basically fired as the stress got to me. Fast forward 30 years, I am in New Zealand. I became a liquidator for stupid reasons. I sued a big 4 audit firm which settled, along with directors, for $NZ 40 million (£21 million). I got only a small fraction because it was litigation funded. My membership of CAANZ has been suspended. If anyone wants to know why, let me know. Is it possible that I have offended the accounting gods? Big firms are as ruthless as oil companies or banks. Be warned.
I tried my best to get myself into Deloitte and KPMG . Given interview more than 4 times. BUT DIDN'T MAKE IT . you are great to make such an achievement 🙏
Hello ma'am. Hope you are doing good. 😊 I really loved how you were very honest about your initial career journey in this video. And it's really inspiring how you overcame all the huddles and became the confident person you are today. I know it's not easy and doesn't happen overnight. But I'm really so happy for you and for everything you do for young students and employees like us. You are truly an inspiration. And it's so soothing to hear you always. Much love to you. 🤗💞
Big 4 managers had no life out of office. No wonder if your review call is scheduled at 11:00 PM. Working late and working on weekends makes them proud. This work culture is going to take you no where other than a mental hospital or blood pressure and diabetis doctor
Completely relatable, even i had to leave the same org. because my executive was worse in behaviour and made my life hell. They fail to understand that we are new joinees with no prior experience.
After becoming ca should i join big 4 or mid size ca firm if i want a proper work life balance along with knowledge and in 1-2 years be open for big companies.
Thanks for the video ma'am , I am a newly qualified CA and i am about start job in Deloitte in Transfer Pricing . This video made me feel that i should rethink my decision .
I also didn't joined 2 of big 4 even for Articleship it was very much hard to me to take such kind of decision But while doing your Articleship you also need to focus on different aspects such time and distance etc. The same with me I know it's not necessary to join such big firm for sake of showing of to friends. In this regard one thing is most important is the distance between your house and job location. So please think over it before joining articleship to far from your house.
true... the main thing is that how much knowledge you are gaining not the mental and physical stress.. so choosing a better place to work and learn will going to benefit us in long learn rather than flexing that I'm working in big4 ( happy from outside and crying inside)
Thanks for sharing all your positive and negative experience it helped me to get more clear about my goals regarding CA, before entering CA course I always wanted to do my training from Big Fours... But after watching your video and also conversing with some other CA's I found clarity towards my goals and long term plans, thus now I am more motivated and am more focused on my studies and goals, I'm not very good with following orders and working under someone, so it will be best for me to start from working at a mid size firm and then making my own firm. Thank You Very Much.
This video was quite important, I am currently a CA inter student, This video gave me some future insights about articleship.❤️❤️ Really Appreciate 🙏🙏, You really gave a Honest experience.🙏🙏
Recently cleared CA Inter may 2022 I will join a small firm where I can get to do other things and the most important thing is family support ;the ones who I can talk to 👍
Thank you so much mam for your honest review. It really helps new CA students like me, I am so confused that where should I do my articleship , your help me a lot to clear that confussion.
Hey your videos are amazing. I had the similar experience wherein I worked for financial audit and later moved on to the risk advisory. Your video is so relatable it made me felt as if I am sharing my experience. Would love to connect with you in person. I am glad that I found your channel.
Ma'am please make a one video on your CA journey....tell everything about yours cpt,ipcc,final..with cup of coffee ☕..❤️also how much marks you got in cpt ? You got selected in kpmg.. please give us some motivation
my take based on working in consulting for 7 years. pros; you get great exposure to many different companies / sectors. you learn and develop lots of skills including analysis and dealing with clients. cons; its a bit of a pyramid scheme, where you are told that if you work to death, sacrifice personal life, in some instances (tell the small lies to win bids), and put up with some of the toxic environment with backstabbing colleagues, favouritism (its run by partners, and the partners are like little kings and queens, and if they like you you rise if not, no chance). you can feel like a sellable resource, when the resourcing teams try and sell you for jobs (they act almost like pimps i felt just selling me to jobs sometimes without even asking me). for some its a great life, and it suits their personality and temperament. but i got tired of being sold to different clients as the 'expert' on something i knew little about, just because i was on the bench. i also got tired of being under pressure to deliver to unexpected deadlines that the partner had promised, working with lots of juniors who were from disparate backgrounds, emotional states, training and personal goals, to deliver something that was of high quality. sometimes there was no respect from the juniors to those below partners, as they did not see you as important in their career growth. so if you were in the middle between grad and partner, you sometimes got no respect from those above, nor from those below. but again its is very team dependant. if you are in a good team it can really be great. but most people did not want to kill themselves to be partner, and were looking to leave and join a firm in industry as a 'head of' type role.
I had the exact same situation as you had. The only thing was I answered them back when I was mocked. As a result I was seen as a wicked person till the end of my articleship. More or less it’s the same either you cry or you are cornered
Namasthe mam I got this video in my youtube recommendation yesterday only The moment i started seeing the video I was feeling so happy that I got a true and an honest opinion As soon as the video got over I subscribed your channel You deserve more followers ,more likes and more viewers. My prayers and wishes will be always there for you mam Please keep uploading more and more videos mam Take care and be safe Thank you so so much mam
Mam plz reply🙏. Imagine if you are today an 18-20 years old girl n u have to decide that where to go so now 👉will u choose CA or will u choose specifically Finance, Accounting, Banking sort of fields or something else.
I guess its in Most of the CA Firms. I am in a Mid size firm and i felt the same senior, culture, no support, gossips, politics. Everybody is just really competitive even within their "groups".
That's Why I Decided That I Am Going For Industrial Training After Completing 1.5 Yrs Articleship In A Mid-Size Farm. Is That A Good Decision. Plz, Reply...😃
You are such a lovely person . I just love to listen your experiences ,it gives me courage to face difficult situations . Even I had a bad experience at school which affected my self-esteem but after listening to you am feeling so better . ❤️🙏
Hi, I have almost completed my ACCA and qualified CA in 2018. I am currently working in finance and want to move to UK for job. Can you please guide on the same? Would be really helpful
I had absolutely the same experience with Deloitte. Cannot recommend AT ALL unless you wish to end up with serious mental and physical health issues. Worked there for 3 years and I can honestly say it was mostly a waste of time, both at the professional level, as well as “human” level. In general, Im not really in touch with any of my ex colleagues. Once covid started, people almost went crazy and became so afraid of the unknown and the environment was so super toxic that today I just cant believe I worked there for such a long time. All this stupid talk about values is just bs. Im telling you nobody at the big4 has values and you just have to be a corporate psychopath to work there for a longer period of time. Deloitte is awful.
Thank you for sharing. I thought big corporations like these ones were supposed to be 'the' place to work at since so many are waiting to get positions there but once you're there, you find out the horrible truth. Don't settle for less than what makes you happy and strive. :)
Thanks alot mam...I have recently completed my articleship from KPMG..and your experience sounded similar like mine..though I had doubts regarding quitting a Big4 right after articleship...this video really helped alot..thanks!!
Thank you for this honest video. I always thought big four culture to be kind of toxic but most of the chartered accountants talk with pride about their work experience there. Kudos to you ❤️
Such an honest sharing... i had almost the same experience and I always thought i am the odd one out... good to know somebody feels the same way..
Pls give me ur email id .. I am too facing issue like this..I m 30 and doing final...I doubt of doing this course
they talk with pride to hide their situation in big four
@@cahardiksingh6332 true!
@CNC Institute Institute
I was working at big 4, i survived actually for 1.5 years, felt like you are telling my story, i used to cry every single day and everyone who will be reading the comment just know that in the moment you will feel,may be i am not having enough knowledge,may be i am lacking but no if you are in toxic environment you will feel in just some weeks only , try to gather all your thoughts basically why you are doing the job ,do you really want to do ,do you have really any area of interest if not then do quit and start to analyse what career you actually and what job will actually fit you well 🤞
It’s exactly what I’m going through right now. I have such toxic seniors and managers that are really unsupportive and would unnecessarily yell at you. I joined here with hope of doing my best as it’s my first job but I’ve lost all my spark and just want to resign.
Extremely relatable! Worked in one of the Big 4 for a year as an article trainee (joined a week just before lockdown 😭🤦♂️). There's literally no work life balance even after having work from home. Nobody cares about you unless it comes to work. Always chasing deadlines and closing the engagements. I was not learning anything new which would have a value addition from academics point of view or professional point of view. Worse of all, health took a serious toll. I have taken the bold decision to leave EY and joined in a smaller firm. Very much satisfied that I took the right decision.
Hey Sai Sirish,
How are you now?
I have read your answers on quora many time. It's disheartening that you have to face all this. I hope you are doing well now! Take care!
@@muskanvarshney8233 Hello Muskan. I'm doing fine now. Recovering slowly.
Hey sai , good to see you here bro
Heyy same I have also read your answer on quora .Feeling very nice to see you here
I have been putting efforts just to get selected there . Till today haven't received any communication .
Exactly, no work life balance, I recently joined BDO at forensic audit as a complete fresher, I am an intern so the point you shared about not fully compensated feel so real! On my first day they assigned me work , thinking i know everything ( I clearly mentioned in my interview that I was a fresher and never worked in this field) I worked till 10 at night on my first day and the next day I started at 9 and was working till 7 and still my senior was expecting me to work more hours , I literally lied and told her that I have another part time job from 7-9 at night so I cannot extend beyond 6:30 but I have compensate the time by starting at 8 in the morning!! Literally I have friends who take pride in working long hours with no work life balance, I legit don’t understand them
And still they don't give you extra work?
Hey what was the pay?@
The fact that it is relatable to so many people in the comment section is enough to conclude that things like these aren't an exception, but the actual reality of their culture. Either you be like them or leave them, there is no midway.
My manager speaks to me in a way as if I owe him 16 hours of my day. Review starts after 9PM and it goes on till midnight. I quit my job in 2 months. 90% of the things she spoke is what I faced from Day 1 as a qualified. I am confident on my work and my capabilities and I know that the Big 4 will extract your soul to get the work done. Will explore a good job role now.
Soo true, its just been 3 months and I am not able to come to terms with this toxic culture and bizarre expectations. Seriously stuck - and amidst corona I’m confused to take this call to quit.
@@radha124 Even in today's era Corporate Social Responsibility would mean enough if they do not donate in cash and treat employee fair.
Same here I’m going through that now!!
Do they give overtime payment?
@@renukabenpatel8693 no!!!!
Thanks for such an honest video on your experience at the big4. I myself have worked at both the big4s that you mentioned and have had similar experiences. It’s unbelievable how employees are treated as mere “resources”!! I left the big4 after about 7 years and started my own venture..and I have to put it out there..I didn’t ever learn as much at the big4 as I did by trying to build my own venture! They expect you to work on a certain domain in a certain industry and there is this pre-defined xyz process and presentation format for everything which in the end really limits your outlook to see the business/industry as a whole! Having said that, the entire experience did hone my leadership skills and helped develop my overall personality but that’s about it! I have some sour memories and would not recommend staying there for long other than maybe in the initial years of your career! Whats sad is that in the industry as a whole, having a big4 badge is considered a big deal and does act as a stepping stone! Hope to change this one day.
Currently, as an article in Mid-size firm I am facing similar challenges, I used to regret why I didn't not wait for 6 months and clear the other group to join Big 4.
Thank you for opening my eyes didi. It will help me in better decision.
You are just awesome! ♥️
Hey, this is literally so me. I was in the exact same position but this things happened me in small firm . My mental health was at stake. In was anxious every second and couldn't stand for myself. I always thought that why can't I be a people pleaser just like others, just hated myself. But finally i stopped giving a damn to what were they gossiping about me and so i m a bit of relaxed now. And here ur video pops up which is giving me a warmth of i m not the only one. Please make a video on ur development of confidence. And yes now i perceive u as an idol that if u can come out of that shit and grow so better so could I . Lots of love didi🥰
This feeling is mutual.. I went through the same kinda experience as well..n I know what does it mean to loose confidence at such an early age..!!
@@nirvibhayani42 Hii
You are so so strong . Thankfully I m out of that shit now. Not that they stopped playing mind games with me but now I learnt my worth take every day as blessing. Now I m no more anxious. Yes some time I do get that same old feeling of being depressed nd what if people see me as a fool but then why should it matter what they think about me. My family nd close friends know the real me. And so might b in ur case. Believe me u'll get out of this really soon. If I can so why can't u. I believe in u. My damn strong girl. Would b praying for u to my krishna wherever u r. May krishna bless u. Jay shree Krishna. ❤
Thank you so much for your honest and candid experience, Mehar! You hit the nail on the head describing the experience as many of my friends and I have endured the same things you’ve gone through as well. You’re so brave for sharing your story and empowering all of us to take that necessary step to leave for our mental and physical health. I can’t thank you enough for this.
I Can’t agree more!! Thank you so much for sharing your honest experience. I am currently working in one of the big 4 and I can absolutely relate to everything you talked about. This is my first job and I was a new hire with no prior experience, and I feel the same way you described in the video. Also thanks a lot for talking about mental health, since I have started feeling disturbed due to my job I am planning to quit real soon. I too feel I do not belong here. I am glad to be a part of your fam ☺️
hey is it necessary to get a rank to enter a big 4?
Same thing I am also going through…
Hi Mehar, I'm first time watching ur video and after seeing ur video I could feel u are saying my story. Even I was fascinated with big 4 in my college. I was fortunate enough to clear my interview in one of the big 4. I was hired as Tax Consultant but due to toxic work culture, unbalanced work life, pressure to work 55hrs per week etc. I decide to quit the job within 6 months. Now I learning new skills and trying to build a good career by starting fresh again.
I could very much relate with this video. This is my story as well!!!
I did my articleship in a mid-sized firm. It was not as bad as the Big4 but I felt that I didn't belong.. I got into teaching as soon as I completed my articleship and I have not been happier :)
Wah! That's my plan too..!
I am also waiting to start my PhD. With my CMA I think it will be a beautiful combination.
This is an absolute eye opener! Pls do share your experience after leaving the Big 4 and something about your current job, it would be highly helpful!
You’re my inspiration! 🤗♥️
This video will be an Eye - opener for many of the aspirants..Thank you Mehar for enlightening on this subject, I will be sharing the same who reach out to me whether they should join the big 4 or not ! At-least they will be knowing whether they are mentally prepared for it or not because this is what actually is there !
Likewise, I think every one of us from the same course are facing the same issues. We as a student at age of 20, are not capable enough to understand what are we meant for! Plus the age from 20-22 is the most precious age band to learn about ourselves and to make life changing decisions. When we start working, then we explore and understand the real potential and interest of oneself. Your story is so relatable to most of us working at same position. Thanks for sharing. I hope your mental health has recovered and wish you best for your success.
It needs a lot of gut to speak up and being so honest. The more I see you, the more I'm inspired ma'am. So honest, so candid and you literally just make all of us feel like it's okay to feel a very certain way! ❤️ Lots of love to you ma'am.
Thank you so so much for this superb amazing video. 🤩 Yes, you should certainly be more youuuu, cause that inspires us the most 😍
Thank you Amrita. That’s so kind of you 💗🙏🏼
Sending you lots of love 💕 stay safe and healthy 😘
Well done Mehar, You did the right thing in the right time and you rightly said, what is the use of such money if your mental health is suffering. After watching this video, I felt that you are the real person who is successful in her life and give honest advice to others.
Thanks for making such videos and you inspired a lot to us.
Hey Mehar! First of all hats off to the courage you have to speak about your fears openly. Me being a CA final student i could totally relate to each and everything you said . i never enjoyed audit or taxation. It would really be helpful if you make more videos on identifying the right career n dealing with office politics. You're such an inspiration so many people out there.
Keep up the great work.
Mehar, completely relatable, it's absolutely same even now, faced even worse in Articleship during 1st lockdown, I have recently quit KPMG.
Why?
This was such a fresh and honest perspective on the big4s...... thank you for widening all of our vision and showing us the "big" picture.
More love and support to you mam! :)
So so brave of you to come forward and speak about it. Absolutely loved that you spoke it with utmost honesty and shown a clear picture about what the reality is. I somehow knew about this extreme work conditions from my friends and I took a decision that I will not sacrifice on my mental health and I joined a decent mid-size firm which has the bestest work environment and culture. But there was this thing in my mind that It would have been more better to join Big4s as they pay you more than mid-sizes.
But now after watching this video, I again came to the point that whatever the payout maybe, you should not compromise on your mental health. You have to put yourself ahead of everything else.
Thank you for this eye opening video! 😄
Hello Deven, if you dont mind, can you share the name of the decent mid-size firm which had good working environment, and in which city.
How many of here from koushal sir interview?
Yes I am. TQ ma'am.
Can you give the link to koushal sir interview?
I always find my friends working at a big four complaining about the same issues. It really doesn't feel like a good environment to be working in for short term let alone a longer one. Thank you for putting in the effort to guide us. It really helps in making career choices
Mehar! You're such an inspiration! My love and respect toward you keeps increasing day by day through your videos. Thank you so much for such open talks on your experiences, I bet each one of us would feel low and go through such issues, but learning from them and becoming a person who inspires others is what matters and I'm learning that from you! You are such a great personality ❤️Glad to know you❤️ Much love and power to you❤️
Thank you for telling the honest experience.....not everyone has that courage to talk about their mental health and the hardships they have faced during their articleship in big 4.
🤗🤗💗 I’m so glad you found my story useful Pallavi. Lots of love
there are just some evil people out there who don't want you to do good in your career and they give bad advice
Did my articleship at a mid size firm.. the pressure to meet deadlines was just like she mentioned. Would have to work overtime too but the work environment was very warm and supportive
This really helped. I am stuck in the same situation and this is what I needed to hear. A reflection. Needed to know that I am not the only one. Thank you for being candid.
Thank you so much ma'am for making this video ❤️This video just touched my heart ❤️ Your 2nd project in KPMG and all events aligned to is something i am going through currently💯❣️
I totally feel u... I am from a science side...Gone through the same feeling in another audit firm with no knowledge of accounting But i came to be among the best in that toxic environment...Learned so much there... Independence, personal develpment, knowledge But I left the job... Completed my ACA studies and now trying to find a job...Though I so want to be an entrepreneur.... Living a happy life 😉
As an ex audit associate in the same firm I totally get what you are saying. Each point you have explained is exactly what everyone faces.
This is exactly my situation right now. I don't work at big 4 but I am currently working at one of the top 7 firms. When I started off with my CA journey I was motativated and enthusiastic about my career but as soon as I entered work force, the motivation kind off started withering off. That vigour started to get lost. Initially, I joined an Indian firm wherein there was no proper audit procedure and auditing was just manual work of checking bank statements etc. The bosses and seniors were mostly were unsupportive and unprofessional. Then I got excited to join my current firm. It felt good initially but again after a week or so the environment became worse. That boy of 22 who is all new and confused got even more confused and depressed. The feeling of helplessness is real. Even my stipend is deducted without them informing me the reason. I feel difficult to concentrate on my studies although I am trying my best. I always had a dream to join big4 in transfer pricing department but now I really need to reconsider my decision. Thanks ma'am, for this candid video, I can totally relate with you. I hope this helps other budding professionals as well. Thanks again!
Thanks for sharing your experience Anubhav. Wish you all the best for your future. It all works out 🤗💗
@@MeharSindhuBatra Thank you, ma'am. 😊
I can very much relate to what you just said. I was in a corporate job (internal audit) in 2021 and I was really liking it but still wasn't satisfied. In Oct, Deloitte came knocking on my door with a package and a location so lucrative that one just couldn't say no. But when I got to know about the work culture BIG-4 has, I knew I'll lose myself as a person. They called me several times to come join them but in the end, it wasn't for me. I am a CMA and luckily the education has kept me in a job. Now I work for a university as their Chief Auditor (and I am loving it here) and looking forward to getting my PhD started.
Hi mehar, thankyou so much for sharing this, whatever you have said about work being monotoneous and it starts affecting our mental health, currently i am going through a similar situation in my articleship, since past 1.5 years i have almost worked in gst department and other departments when there were last dates and deadlines, they are actually using me and thinking of me as a replacement of their past employee who used to do all work in just 9k and now they are making me file gst returns of 160+ clients, the mental stress is unbearable that i want to die now, and now they dont have anyone else to do their gst and i am going to say no for this work because if i wont say no they are going to keep.exploiting me. This video is giving me hope now that i will be able to survive.
Also i always wanted to be a CA, even though i am in a small firm who are friends of my cousin, they are constantly taking advantage of me, giving all the clients my number, msging me on whatsapp since morning to night and plus On a SUNDAY too, My mother is always worried about me because end up crying whenever i come home, and now i can not tolerate anymore, articleship is not slavery.
I can imagine your articleship days mam.But hats off to you, you withstand all difficulties and now your a successful professional 👏🏽Proud of you mam❤
Same happened with me in my school-days. I remember when I was in 9th standard I used to be beaten up and got scolded by my mathematics teacher just because I used to take maths tuition classes from another teacher( his rival). That all this beating and disrepect had hit me so hard that I started hating Mathematics and School including my school- friends who used to make a fun of me. My self esteem became zero. Later on I changed my school eventually. This whole incident still traumatized me. Even at this time I really don't like to get along with friends who were there at that time. I know how it feels like in a company or a circle where you are constantly judged, mistreated by people who you thought to be your well-wisher once. But it's good to come out of it strongly, take a exit from those toxic people and be brave enough to take your stand when it seems the whole world is against you.
Wow bro your problem are very serious at that time 😮 at the age of 16 in class 9th this kind of behaviour by teachers such a traumatising
extremely relatable. i had literally no training on the job when i was on the audit. Its all look back in past papers, which were done poorly looking back, and try to do it yourself.
Amazing and it also needs courage to take a bold decisions in life...it's inspiring! Thank you for sharing your honest experience 😊
Wow, I really had a very nice boss. He was so sweet, encouraging and always took care of us. He never forced us to work overtime, instead requested us if there was a need.
Kudos to you for being very honest. More strength and luck , all the best .✨✨
One more great video.
Loved your honesty. Kudos to you❤️❤️
I can truly resonate with u .. The same thng happened to me as well.. Took so much time to rebuild my confidence
💗💗
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion as it made me feel that i was not the only one going through it.
I was blaming myself for not reaching their expectations, but later realised that it wasn't my fault instead it's their's for not providing proper guidance and i quit the firm.
But it was too late and by the time i quit, my health got severely damaged both mentally and physically :(
I completely understand. Hope you’re doing better now 💗💗
So fucking relatable. I have worked for 2 of the big 4 that you haven't worked in. easy to guess? Let me tell you you have narrated my story in the video. Thank you
Yd
10K p.m for 60-70 hour week.
*goes to corner and Cries in 3K for 80+ hr workweeks
We always have our problems.. but don't compare that we also have our problems
See I'm doing my industrial training in 3rd year , I know my 80+ hours in my frst 2 years are no match with 40 hours schedule
In corporate world , we always have deadlines for every project and the office politics makes life even harder. Articles mein aap ka kaam aap hi karegaa , thoda late hua toh , boss chillayega bas
But here if you are not giving your 120% or meeting deadlines , you will knockdown , there will be 40-50 articles , you are easily replacable ,. That's a horrific nightmare , everyday constant pressure , you don't know that feeling in your 80+ things , so please stop comparing , please spread positivity
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Hi Mehar, i could completely relate with your experiences🙂.. the same thing may happen in mid and small CA firms also.. I really appreciate the way you honestly shared your experience.. Would really be helpful for students.
Thank you so much Ma'am , please keep it up that type of thing. We audience demand facts &u are giving this is awesome
Big thankyou Mehar, your insights are valuable!
That's so true, the overall key is to have a good manager in big4 (which we have zero control on), if you don't then it would be tough to survive. Having overall 4 years in big4 consulting, I can say, you learn from end to end how to run a project at very junior level. However, mental health should be our first priority, and I would suggest being your own advocator if you are working in big4.
My heart goes out listening to you.. well done Mehar..for going through this journey...I hope you follow your heart and May all your dreams come true🌺
Love you ma 🤗♥️
misleading title, you worked at big 4s for 4 years and 6 months, and at KPMG for 4 years and 1 month.
Khushi, KPMG is a part of the big 4. I worked at KPMG for 5 years then at EY.
I am now old. I trained in a small firm in London and took a job at what was one of the big 8 firms in those days. In some ways it was the best experience of my life. In 1985 I audited one of the accepting houses. In that year the City went through a revolution. But the problem came with a small bank. I was left on my own as the senior staff saved a major client from a hostile takeover. I suffered badly and was basically fired as the stress got to me. Fast forward 30 years, I am in New Zealand. I became a liquidator for stupid reasons. I sued a big 4 audit firm which settled, along with directors, for $NZ 40 million (£21 million). I got only a small fraction because it was litigation funded. My membership of CAANZ has been suspended. If anyone wants to know why, let me know. Is it possible that I have offended the accounting gods? Big firms are as ruthless as oil companies or banks. Be warned.
Please make a video on how internal audit is practically done at big 4s!
I tried my best to get myself into Deloitte and KPMG . Given interview more than 4 times. BUT DIDN'T MAKE IT . you are great to make such an achievement 🙏
You're lucky if you haven't been to , otherwise you'll be among others commenting the same ☺️
Hello ma'am. Hope you are doing good. 😊 I really loved how you were very honest about your initial career journey in this video. And it's really inspiring how you overcame all the huddles and became the confident person you are today. I know it's not easy and doesn't happen overnight. But I'm really so happy for you and for everything you do for young students and employees like us. You are truly an inspiration. And it's so soothing to hear you always. Much love to you. 🤗💞
Your best video till yet, love the honesty! Keep it up!
Soo relatable 💯💯
I had also quit by my articleship from a big4 mid way.
I could so much relate with your story💯
Big 4 managers had no life out of office. No wonder if your review call is scheduled at 11:00 PM. Working late and working on weekends makes them proud. This work culture is going to take you no where other than a mental hospital or blood pressure and diabetis doctor
Completely relatable, even i had to leave the same org. because my executive was worse in behaviour and made my life hell. They fail to understand that we are new joinees with no prior experience.
After becoming ca should i join big 4 or mid size ca firm if i want a proper work life balance along with knowledge and in 1-2 years be open for big companies.
Thanks for the video ma'am , I am a newly qualified CA and i am about start job in Deloitte in Transfer Pricing . This video made me feel that i should rethink my decision .
I am part of Pwc -like literally same.. audit department and article assistant and believe me I can relate to the situation so muchhhhh!!!
Hello. Mam can you tell me what is the procedure to join PWC. Like I also want to join for my articleship in Kolkata
@@adilafroz6855 sure ... kindly dm
@@aanchalsakaria164 where?
hlo mam , can you tell me is it difficult to maintain study routine along with articleship in big 4 ?
I also didn't joined 2 of big 4 even for Articleship it was very much hard to me to take such kind of decision
But while doing your Articleship you also need to focus on different aspects such time and distance etc.
The same with me I know it's not necessary to join such big firm for sake of showing of to friends.
In this regard one thing is most important is the distance between your house and job location.
So please think over it before joining articleship to far from your house.
true... the main thing is that how much knowledge you are gaining not the mental and physical stress.. so choosing a better place to work and learn will going to benefit us in long learn rather than flexing that I'm working in big4 ( happy from outside and crying inside)
I recently quit my job at one of the Big4 and I can finally breathe! I relate to everything you said and more... It's so not worth it.
such a wonderful yet inspiring chit-chat session. lots of love!!
Thanks for sharing all your positive and negative experience it helped me to get more clear about my goals regarding CA, before entering CA course I always wanted to do my training from Big Fours... But after watching your video and also conversing with some other CA's I found clarity towards my goals and long term plans, thus now I am more motivated and am more focused on my studies and goals, I'm not very good with following orders and working under someone, so it will be best for me to start from working at a mid size firm and then making my own firm. Thank You Very Much.
Felt like you spoke my heart out
This video was quite important, I am currently a CA inter student, This video gave me some future insights about articleship.❤️❤️ Really Appreciate 🙏🙏, You really gave a Honest experience.🙏🙏
Recently cleared CA Inter may 2022
I will join a small firm where I can get to do other things and the most important thing is family support ;the ones who I can talk to 👍
Thankyou for this video ❤ Such an honest video. Also Di you are very beautiful!
Super relatable! It was as if whatever experience i had you were saying.
Felt so good that I am not the odd one out ❤️
very practical and emotional
I am so happy to have found you❤️. Better late than never. I am a CA Final student myself 😀. You really inspire me. Thank you ❤️. Already subscribed😎.
Thank you so much mam for your honest review. It really helps new CA students like me, I am so confused that where should I do my articleship , your help me a lot to clear that confussion.
Hey your videos are amazing. I had the similar experience wherein I worked for financial audit and later moved on to the risk advisory. Your video is so relatable it made me felt as if I am sharing my experience. Would love to connect with you in person. I am glad that I found your channel.
The most honest video in the world of crooks!
Very beautifully articulated!
Personally felt every word of yours:)
Ma'am please make a one video on your CA journey....tell everything about yours cpt,ipcc,final..with cup of coffee ☕..❤️also how much marks you got in cpt ? You got selected in kpmg.. please give us some motivation
Great idea Rakhi, thank you ♥️ coming up soon
Just what i needed to watch.
my take based on working in consulting for 7 years.
pros; you get great exposure to many different companies / sectors. you learn and develop lots of skills including analysis and dealing with clients.
cons; its a bit of a pyramid scheme, where you are told that if you work to death, sacrifice personal life, in some instances (tell the small lies to win bids), and put up with some of the toxic environment with backstabbing colleagues, favouritism (its run by partners, and the partners are like little kings and queens, and if they like you you rise if not, no chance). you can feel like a sellable resource, when the resourcing teams try and sell you for jobs (they act almost like pimps i felt just selling me to jobs sometimes without even asking me).
for some its a great life, and it suits their personality and temperament. but i got tired of being sold to different clients as the 'expert' on something i knew little about, just because i was on the bench. i also got tired of being under pressure to deliver to unexpected deadlines that the partner had promised, working with lots of juniors who were from disparate backgrounds, emotional states, training and personal goals, to deliver something that was of high quality. sometimes there was no respect from the juniors to those below partners, as they did not see you as important in their career growth. so if you were in the middle between grad and partner, you sometimes got no respect from those above, nor from those below. but again its is very team dependant. if you are in a good team it can really be great. but most people did not want to kill themselves to be partner, and were looking to leave and join a firm in industry as a 'head of' type role.
Thanks for the raw honesty❤ hope you are doing well
💗💗
All good now 🤗
On point..can relate 💯. Thank for sharing
I loved this vedio💯
Mental health comes first👍
Thank you so much ma'am for this video 😊😎
That was really insightful! Thank you
I had the exact same situation as you had. The only thing was I answered them back when I was mocked.
As a result I was seen as a wicked person till the end of my articleship.
More or less it’s the same either you cry or you are cornered
I feel each word she said...I been through same...i wish these discussions saves few from such toxic environment
Namasthe mam
I got this video in my youtube recommendation yesterday only
The moment i started seeing the video I was feeling so happy that I got a true and an honest opinion
As soon as the video got over I subscribed your channel
You deserve more followers ,more likes and more viewers.
My prayers and wishes will be always there for you mam
Please keep uploading more and more videos mam
Take care and be safe
Thank you so so much mam
Mam plz reply🙏.
Imagine if you are today an 18-20 years old girl n u have to decide that where to go so now 👉will u choose CA or will u choose specifically Finance, Accounting, Banking sort of fields or something else.
The same happened with me in Pwc .So relatable
I guess its in Most of the CA Firms.
I am in a Mid size firm and i felt the same senior, culture, no support, gossips, politics. Everybody is just really competitive even within their "groups".
That's Why I Decided That I Am Going For Industrial Training After Completing 1.5 Yrs Articleship In A Mid-Size Farm.
Is That A Good Decision.
Plz, Reply...😃
Great decision. Industrial training is worth it.
You are such a lovely person . I just love to listen your experiences ,it gives me courage to face difficult situations . Even I had a bad experience at school which affected my self-esteem but after listening to you am feeling so better . ❤️🙏
It was so connecting🖤
Thanks for your true views.
Such a honest sharing of your experience mehar ...Keep doing such videos and more power to you
So relatable..going through it right now !
I'm down 1.5 years of my articleship. Thinking of quiting the MNC but not able to. What should be done ?
Hi, I have almost completed my ACCA and qualified CA in 2018. I am currently working in finance and want to move to UK for job. Can you please guide on the same? Would be really helpful
Hey there.
How are you doing now?
I was also thinking of starting ACCA, and would like some advice ..
Thank you for this video. A real eye- opener🙏
I had absolutely the same experience with Deloitte. Cannot recommend AT ALL unless you wish to end up with serious mental and physical health issues. Worked there for 3 years and I can honestly say it was mostly a waste of time, both at the professional level, as well as “human” level. In general, Im not really in touch with any of my ex colleagues. Once covid started, people almost went crazy and became so afraid of the unknown and the environment was so super toxic that today I just cant believe I worked there for such a long time. All this stupid talk about values is just bs. Im telling you nobody at the big4 has values and you just have to be a corporate psychopath to work there for a longer period of time. Deloitte is awful.
Thank you for sharing. I thought big corporations like these ones were supposed to be 'the' place to work at since so many are waiting to get positions there but once you're there, you find out the horrible truth. Don't settle for less than what makes you happy and strive. :)
Thanks alot mam...I have recently completed my articleship from KPMG..and your experience sounded similar like mine..though I had doubts regarding quitting a Big4 right after articleship...this video really helped alot..thanks!!