Mentoring matters – building the future of practice

January marks National Mentoring Month, a perfect opportunity to highlight just how impactful mentoring can be for public practice accountants and the firms they work for.?

Think back to the start of your own career. Chances are, you can pinpoint a person who made a difference.??

Maybe it was someone who took the time to explain the trickier bits of VAT returns or someone who gave you a nudge in the right direction when you were stuck on your career path. That’s the power of mentoring. It’s personal, transformative, and it works.?

For juniors, trainees, and Semi Seniors working within public practice, mentoring provides guidance, boosts confidence, and opens doors to progression. For firms, it’s a powerful way to nurture talent, improve retention, and future-proof your business. Everyone wins.?

So, let’s dive into why mentoring matters and how we can all make the most of National Mentoring Month, regardless of seniority.??

Why mentoring is a big deal for juniors, trainees and Semi Seniors?

We all remember our early days in the workplace. That mix of excitement, nerves and in some cases, overwhelming pressure. For juniors and trainees starting out in public practice, mentoring can make all the difference. Having someone who’s been there, done that, and worn the audit-checked t-shirt is invaluable.?

For Semi Seniors, who are often juggling technical responsibilities while preparing for exams, mentoring can offer that extra boost of confidence. It’s not just about teaching technical skills either; mentoring is about shaping well-rounded professionals who can handle the fast-paced world of public practice with a smile on their face and a plan in their pocket.?

It’s also a chance to open doors to career progression. Whether it’s advice on moving towards management, specialising in tax, or tackling the next set of ACCA exams, a mentor can help map out the path ahead.??

And let’s not forget the emotional side of things. Having someone to share advice and encouragement during stressful moments can be a lifeline.??

Advancetrack’s 2024 report shows 88% of worldwide accountants say the skills shortage is “significantly” affecting their mental health. Having a mentor who can lend an ear and show understanding is something that will mean a lot to any accountant in the beginning of their practice career.???

What mentoring does for firms?

Okay, let’s flip the coin.?

If you’re running a firm, why should you care about mentoring? Simple: because it’s an investment that pays off in spades.?

Firstly, it helps keep your best people. Let’s face it, public practice can be a tough gig, and without the right support, people can feel burnt out and unappreciated. A strong mentoring programme shows your team that you’re invested in their development and genuinely care about their future. That’s a big tick when it comes to retaining talent.?

Secondly, mentoring helps grow future leaders. If you want to build a firm that thrives in five, ten, or twenty years’ time, you need to nurture the next generation now. Mentoring is the perfect way to pass on the skills, knowledge, and ethos that make your firm stand out. It’s like planting seeds for long-term success.?

And let’s not forget the benefits to your clients.

Mentored employees tend to be more confident, knowledgeable, and engaged, which leads to better service and stronger client relationships.??

A win for everyone involved!?

National Mentoring Month – why now??

January is a great time to shine a spotlight on mentoring. It’s the start of a new year, when people are naturally thinking about goals, growth, and what they want to achieve.??

We’ve already spoken about our predictions for public practice in 2025 and how clients will be expecting more from accountants. By mentoring junior staff now, firms will be able to meet evolving needs and the demand for real-time support.??

Whether you’re an aspiring accountant looking to level up or a firm thinking about your long-term strategy, National Mentoring Month is a fantastic excuse to get things moving.?

If you’re a firm that doesn’t already have a mentoring programme in place, now’s the time to start. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Pair up experienced team members with juniors and Semi Seniors who want guidance.??

Encourage regular catch-ups where they can talk about challenges, goals, and opportunities. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about building a culture where people learn and grow together.?

And if you’re already mentoring? Use January to shout about it!??

Share success stories, celebrate your mentors and mentees, and remind everyone why mentoring matters. It’s a brilliant way to inspire more people to get involved.?

Why mentoring matters for recruitment?

Here’s the thing: mentoring isn’t just about the people you already have. It’s a powerful tool for attracting new talent too.??

Candidates want to work somewhere that invests in their growth, and a mentoring programme sends exactly that message. It says, “We’re not just here to give you a job; we’re here to help you build a career.”?

At Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we see it all the time. Firms with strong mentoring cultures find it easier to attract ambitious professionals, especially Semi Seniors, juniors and trainees looking for firms where they can grow. And those firms reap the benefits of motivated, skilled, and loyal employees. Everyone wins.?

Ready to take the next step??

Whether you’re an accountant eager to move up the ladder or a hiring manager looking to strengthen your team, National Mentoring Month is your chance to take action.?

At Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we specialise in connecting talented accountants with forward-thinking firms that value growth, mentoring, and success – and we recruit from Semi Senior right up to Equity Partner. Our team knows how to match people and firms to create partnerships that thrive.?

So, if you’re ready to make the most of mentoring - whether that’s making 2025 the year you find your perfect role or hiring top talent to build your team - get in touch today.??

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