How To Advance Your Career at RSM

Written By Parth Patel, RSM Intern

Six interns recently had a chance to go “Behind the Cs” and sit down with RSM US LLPs top executives to talk about the accounting industry, RSM’s culture, career advice and much more. Read on to see what Parth Patel took away from spending an hour with CEO Joe Adams. 

Joe Adams (Left) and Parth Patel (Right)

Being an intern can be a roller coaster of emotions. From the first day of networking with a recruiter to the first day of training, we were filled with excitement and jitters. Personally, I had zero sense as to what my role as an intern with RSM was going to entail. Never in a million years would I imagine myself sitting across from RSM’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner Joe Adams and chatting about our careers in public accounting. He gave me some useful advice on how employees at the firm, specifically interns who want to stick in public accounting, can quickly advance through the ranks.

When I first joined the firm in June, I immediately noticed was how genuine and competent the employees are. They listened to my needs and helped me figure out any problems I had, which ultimately tied into the advice Joe gave me about becoming a game-changer at the firm. Whether you aspire to be a partner one day or are still an intern trying to come on full-time, listening to your coworkers’ thoughts and ideas are vital. Furthermore, sharing your own knowledge that you have gained throughout your career to help develop others is a key to success. As an intern, my job is to be a sponge. I absorb as much knowledge as I can from my team, partners and staff all around the office. Then, I release all this information I learned to my fellow interns and anyone who may need help. Throughout this internship, we have helped each other increase our knowledge and skills and grow as well-rounded individuals.

For anyone that is looking to take that extra step in their career, I recommend taking initiative in developing others and promoting a learning environment. Bringing positive energy to RSM will help not only you, but those around you. The most important thing I learned so far in this internship is that we are only as strong as the people around us. To bring the firm to the next level requires all of us to work together. Ask questions, be curious, provide guidance and work harder than you ever imagined you could.