In Part 2 of my conversation with Hayden Moore, CPA, we shifted from CPA exams to what happens after graduation. We talked about how to stand out in your first accounting job, the reality of switching between tax and audit, how busy seasons really differ, and why AI isn’t replacing accountants anytime soon. This part of the interview dives deep into real-world career decisions and the soft skills that often matter more than technical knowledge early on.
Highlights from this discussion include:
- How showing up in person can accelerate your career
- What really changes when you move between tax and audit
- Why detail and organization transfer across service lines
- The truth about busy season expectations
- How AI is changing work — without replacing professionals
How to Stand Out in Your First Accounting Role
When I asked Hayden what makes someone stand out in their first or second year, his answer was simple — and powerful.
“The biggest thing is going to the office.”
Hayden explained that being physically present creates learning opportunities that simply don’t exist on video calls. From overhearing conversations to becoming a familiar face, visibility matters.
He also emphasized that no one expects perfection early on.
“Nobody expects you to know everything — they remember the little things.”
What actually stands out:
- Being responsive and professional
- Following up and meeting deadlines
- Showing up prepared and on time
- Communicating clearly with teams and clients
Why Hayden Moved from Tax to Audit
After two years in tax at a mid-tier firm, Hayden made the jump to audit at a Big Four firm — intentionally.
“I didn’t want to go down just one route.”
For Hayden, audit offered broader exposure, more exit options, and a chance to round out his skill set. He wanted to understand operating businesses more deeply and keep future doors open.
We also talked about my own opposite move — from audit to tax — and why fulfillment matters more than stereotypes.
“It’s not about being introvert or extrovert — it’s about the work you enjoy.”
Skills That Transfer Between Tax and Audit
Despite the differences, Hayden shared that many skills carry over seamlessly.
The most valuable ones?
- Detail orientation
- Organization and tracking
- Clear documentation
“One little thing can become a big hiccup.”
What required the biggest adjustment moving into audit was client-facing communication.
“In audit, you’re talking to clients from day one.”
Learning how to manage conversations, status calls, and expectations became critical — especially when clients aren’t always thrilled to see auditors.
Tax vs. Audit Busy Season: Sprint or Marathon
Hayden described tax busy season as a sprint, while audit feels more like a marathon.
- Tax = predictable, deadline-driven spikes
- Audit = longer stretches of sustained hours
“In audit, it depends on what the client can provide.”
Both paths are demanding — just in different ways.
AI in Accounting: Tool, Not Replacement
We spent time talking about AI, and Hayden made one thing clear:
“There’s no substitute for the human in the loop.”
AI is improving efficiency, reducing administrative work, and streamlining processes — but it’s not replacing judgment, decision-making, or client relationships.
“It can make things look right — but that doesn’t mean it is right.”
Understanding how to use AI is becoming part of how professionals are evaluated.
Final Advice
Hayden closed with advice that applies no matter where you start:
“Get into the office. Build your brand. Build your network.”
Careers aren’t linear — and they don’t have to be permanent decisions.
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