Hitting a Home Run: Working with Clients on Day One

In college, I knew I wanted to get a degree in business, but early on I really did not know exactly what specific degree was for me. Eventually, through a little soul searching and a few accounting classes, I decided accounting was for me. I played baseball, and because of my schedule I couldn’t participate in a traditional internship. After I graduated, I was able to do an internship with a mid-size accounting firm, as well as with a small manufacturing company in Niles. Since my interest aligned more with public accounting than private accounting, the accounting manager at the manufacturing company, who used to work with Weiss, referred me to them.

The accounting firm where I did my internship gave me a job offer, and another larger public accounting firm also gave me an offer, but once I met everyone at Weiss, I knew that’s where I wanted to work. It was the kind of family atmosphere I was looking for.

Not only that, I got to work with both partners and clients from day one. I got a lot of audit exposure early on – you can also take on a lot of responsibility early if you choose to. The partners are always available to talk, and the Weiss mentorship program has been great for my career development.

I also have a life outside of work. I live in the Loop and I still play in a men’s hardball league in my free time. The company really gives you the time and flexibility to figure out your own path. I’m glad I found mine.

– Brian O’Toole, Manager