29 answers
Cathy
Student
Texas City, Texas
3
Questions
Asked
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How does a typical day of a person in a business, accounting, or finance field typically go?
I would love to hear from people who have a career in a related or similar field of business, accounting, or finance about how their typical day is. What time does your workday start? When does it end? How is your environment? What is the best and worst part of your day? Any type of information would really help!
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29 answers
Hamdi J
Analyst
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Hamdi’s Answer
Hi Cathy, I focus on work in the morning before 11 AM and keep my afternoons for meetings. My schedule can change depending on the time of year. I love finishing projects and checking off my to-do list; it feels great. It's frustrating when I don't get everything done, but I remind myself that tomorrow is a new day. We're all just humans on this planet.
Chantelle Tomines
Compensation Professional
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Chantelle’s Answer
A typical day can vary based on your role, level, and company. I work in Finance at a software company, Salesforce, and my job follows a cycle. Our busy season is from June to February, and things slow down from March to May.
During the busy season, I usually start my day around 10 a.m. I like to begin late so I can go to the gym, walk my dog, and have breakfast before diving into work. Most of my day is filled with meetings where I collaborate with others on important projects. Since my job focuses on strategy, I spend a lot of time brainstorming and coordinating with key people both within and outside our team. I create presentations to share our ideas, and once we agree on a strategy, I work on putting it into action and managing changes with our operations teams.
Throughout the year, my team also organizes in-person events and volunteer opportunities, like working with Career Village, to add some fun to our workplace.
During the busy season, I usually start my day around 10 a.m. I like to begin late so I can go to the gym, walk my dog, and have breakfast before diving into work. Most of my day is filled with meetings where I collaborate with others on important projects. Since my job focuses on strategy, I spend a lot of time brainstorming and coordinating with key people both within and outside our team. I create presentations to share our ideas, and once we agree on a strategy, I work on putting it into action and managing changes with our operations teams.
Throughout the year, my team also organizes in-person events and volunteer opportunities, like working with Career Village, to add some fun to our workplace.
Satya Sesha Sai Casukhela
Finance and Commercial Operations
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Satya Sesha Sai’s Answer
The role of a finance professional varies based on their position in a company. For those new to the field, tasks are often transactional and can lead to long hours, especially during month-end or planning cycles.
Middle managers focus on overseeing their team’s work to maintain quality, addressing unexpected issues, managing increased workloads, and networking.
Senior finance professionals spend more time on financial reporting, team management, setting policies, and working with auditors, stakeholders, investors, and customers.
Finance professionals should lead proactively and aim to solve real business problems. It's important to work for companies that truly value and respect employees.
Continuously improving financial and industry knowledge is crucial. This includes understanding industry success factors, risks, and the role of technology. Professionals should also engage in sustainable initiatives and volunteer work to enhance shareholder value.
Participating in public events like seminars and conferences is also beneficial. Maintaining health and pursuing hobbies with passion are important for work-life balance. Effective time management is essential for a successful career in finance.
Middle managers focus on overseeing their team’s work to maintain quality, addressing unexpected issues, managing increased workloads, and networking.
Senior finance professionals spend more time on financial reporting, team management, setting policies, and working with auditors, stakeholders, investors, and customers.
Finance professionals should lead proactively and aim to solve real business problems. It's important to work for companies that truly value and respect employees.
Continuously improving financial and industry knowledge is crucial. This includes understanding industry success factors, risks, and the role of technology. Professionals should also engage in sustainable initiatives and volunteer work to enhance shareholder value.
Participating in public events like seminars and conferences is also beneficial. Maintaining health and pursuing hobbies with passion are important for work-life balance. Effective time management is essential for a successful career in finance.
Baljinder Bilkhu
Senior Compensation Analyst
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Baljinder’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
The daily routine can differ a lot depending on the industry, even within the same company. Different industries have their unique work styles. I work in Finance, focusing on Sales Compensation Operations and Strategy at a big tech company as a Senior Analyst. My day changes based on the season and our current projects. Usually, my week includes meetings, regular tasks, project work, and handling unexpected requests. Since I work in a global company, my hours aren't always 9 to 5. Sometimes, I need to adjust my schedule to collaborate with colleagues in Europe or Asia. However, my days are often flexible, allowing me time for coffee breaks, snacks, and personal errands. The main goal is to ensure I deliver high-quality work on time. As long as I achieve that, I can fit in other activities too.
The daily routine can differ a lot depending on the industry, even within the same company. Different industries have their unique work styles. I work in Finance, focusing on Sales Compensation Operations and Strategy at a big tech company as a Senior Analyst. My day changes based on the season and our current projects. Usually, my week includes meetings, regular tasks, project work, and handling unexpected requests. Since I work in a global company, my hours aren't always 9 to 5. Sometimes, I need to adjust my schedule to collaborate with colleagues in Europe or Asia. However, my days are often flexible, allowing me time for coffee breaks, snacks, and personal errands. The main goal is to ensure I deliver high-quality work on time. As long as I achieve that, I can fit in other activities too.
Sadie Czerwonky
Financial Data Analyst
4
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Sadie’s Answer
Hello!
In business the schedule can be flexible and it’s about finding the best fit for you!
Every job is going to have its ups and downs but it’s important to make sure you maintain a healthy work life balance.
As an example this is how my typically day/ week goes.
Monday and Fridays my office hours are 7-5
Tuesday - Thursday I have more flexibility and usually will be available for office hours 8:30-5
My average flexible day is 5:30 AM waking up to head to the gym before I really start my work day. I get home by 7:30 and make breakfast/ get my kids out the door for school. 8 AM I’m settling in/making my daily to do list. 8:30 - 10 AM are focus hours for me to tackle anything urgent. 10 - 12 I am tackling my long term projects/taking lunch. 1-4 I am in meetings or continuing my longterm projects. 4-5 I’m wrapping up my day with any follow ups and making my to do list for the next day. Whenever possible I use my walking pad during meetings since I find I focus better when I’m moving. I work from home and the flexibility saves me time and money. Most days I’m offline by 5:30 and I’m able to attend doctors appointments/life events if needed as long as my work is completed.
Some people work better in an office setting with a commute and some don’t. It’s important to find what supports your lifestyle without it becoming your entire life. Even when I worked in office utilize all the tools you can to maximize time in your personal and professional life. For example having your groceries delivered, prioritizing community resources close to home (childcare, gym, coffee shops), and making your workspace work for you!
In business the schedule can be flexible and it’s about finding the best fit for you!
Every job is going to have its ups and downs but it’s important to make sure you maintain a healthy work life balance.
As an example this is how my typically day/ week goes.
Monday and Fridays my office hours are 7-5
Tuesday - Thursday I have more flexibility and usually will be available for office hours 8:30-5
My average flexible day is 5:30 AM waking up to head to the gym before I really start my work day. I get home by 7:30 and make breakfast/ get my kids out the door for school. 8 AM I’m settling in/making my daily to do list. 8:30 - 10 AM are focus hours for me to tackle anything urgent. 10 - 12 I am tackling my long term projects/taking lunch. 1-4 I am in meetings or continuing my longterm projects. 4-5 I’m wrapping up my day with any follow ups and making my to do list for the next day. Whenever possible I use my walking pad during meetings since I find I focus better when I’m moving. I work from home and the flexibility saves me time and money. Most days I’m offline by 5:30 and I’m able to attend doctors appointments/life events if needed as long as my work is completed.
Some people work better in an office setting with a commute and some don’t. It’s important to find what supports your lifestyle without it becoming your entire life. Even when I worked in office utilize all the tools you can to maximize time in your personal and professional life. For example having your groceries delivered, prioritizing community resources close to home (childcare, gym, coffee shops), and making your workspace work for you!
Shelly Shen
Accountant
4
Answers
Livermore, California
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
I'm glad I could help with your questions. I work in accounting, and my day usually starts at 8:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm. My tasks include checking and responding to requests from different teams, preparing filings, and doing reconciliations. I also spend a lot of time researching and reading for projects. Things get especially busy at the end of the quarter and year. The best part of my job is the sense of accomplishment, even though not everything always goes smoothly. I really appreciate the work environment I have now.
I'm glad I could help with your questions. I work in accounting, and my day usually starts at 8:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm. My tasks include checking and responding to requests from different teams, preparing filings, and doing reconciliations. I also spend a lot of time researching and reading for projects. Things get especially busy at the end of the quarter and year. The best part of my job is the sense of accomplishment, even though not everything always goes smoothly. I really appreciate the work environment I have now.
Julie Ouk
Audit
4
Answers
Long Beach, California
Updated
Julie’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
Everyone has a different role and are at different companies so responses will vary. Based on my role as an auditor in the public accounting field, my day typically starts at 8:30 am and ends around 5:30 pm. Since it's the summer time, my days haven't been as busy compared to prior months. However, it's still important to prioritize efficiency in my tasks to keep us on track and potentially ahead of schedule. I work in a team settings so there are some regroups to go over what to work on and prioritize. I really enjoy working with others so the environment is great for me as I feel supported. I would say the best part of my day is completing a task that I've never done before. I'm actively learning and this makes it rewarding to know that I'm growing in knowledge. I would say the worst part of my day is getting stuck on a task and it taking longer than expected. Unfortunately, this could result in a delay the leads the task to go into the next day. My biggest advice is look into internships in the business, accounting, and finance field. This is what led me into my current role as I got to intern first. Best of luck and don't feel afraid to utilize any resources available to you!
Everyone has a different role and are at different companies so responses will vary. Based on my role as an auditor in the public accounting field, my day typically starts at 8:30 am and ends around 5:30 pm. Since it's the summer time, my days haven't been as busy compared to prior months. However, it's still important to prioritize efficiency in my tasks to keep us on track and potentially ahead of schedule. I work in a team settings so there are some regroups to go over what to work on and prioritize. I really enjoy working with others so the environment is great for me as I feel supported. I would say the best part of my day is completing a task that I've never done before. I'm actively learning and this makes it rewarding to know that I'm growing in knowledge. I would say the worst part of my day is getting stuck on a task and it taking longer than expected. Unfortunately, this could result in a delay the leads the task to go into the next day. My biggest advice is look into internships in the business, accounting, and finance field. This is what led me into my current role as I got to intern first. Best of luck and don't feel afraid to utilize any resources available to you!
Katie Dudek
Financial Analyst
6
Answers
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
As mentioned before, finance and accounting jobs can differ a lot depending on the role or company. Some positions have repetitive tasks each month or quarter, while others are more dynamic.
I currently work in Corporate Finance, focusing on New Product Development and supporting the Product and Engineering team. My role is flexible, with tasks ranging from helping with the monthly close (compiling results, creating and sharing reports, investigating causes, and presenting close packages) to evaluating the profitability of new products and improving existing ones. I enjoy this part because each product is unique, offering new challenges and opportunities. My typical work hours are from 7:30 am to 5 pm, and I can work from home if needed, allowing me to work extra hours after my daughter goes to bed.
In contrast, I've had more structured roles before. In those positions, I managed parts of the P&L for a specific division, becoming a subject matter expert. I reported monthly actuals and created annual and quarterly forecasts. These jobs were busier at the start and middle of the month, often requiring late nights, while the end of the month was less hectic. Vacation time was best scheduled at the end of the month. Some roles require on-site work, like physical audits, affecting hours and remote work flexibility.
Roles may also involve varying levels of travel, which you can request based on your preferences.
As mentioned before, finance and accounting jobs can differ a lot depending on the role or company. Some positions have repetitive tasks each month or quarter, while others are more dynamic.
I currently work in Corporate Finance, focusing on New Product Development and supporting the Product and Engineering team. My role is flexible, with tasks ranging from helping with the monthly close (compiling results, creating and sharing reports, investigating causes, and presenting close packages) to evaluating the profitability of new products and improving existing ones. I enjoy this part because each product is unique, offering new challenges and opportunities. My typical work hours are from 7:30 am to 5 pm, and I can work from home if needed, allowing me to work extra hours after my daughter goes to bed.
In contrast, I've had more structured roles before. In those positions, I managed parts of the P&L for a specific division, becoming a subject matter expert. I reported monthly actuals and created annual and quarterly forecasts. These jobs were busier at the start and middle of the month, often requiring late nights, while the end of the month was less hectic. Vacation time was best scheduled at the end of the month. Some roles require on-site work, like physical audits, affecting hours and remote work flexibility.
Roles may also involve varying levels of travel, which you can request based on your preferences.
Kate Conroy
Associate Marketing Manager
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Hi!
I'm offering the perspective of someone with an entry-level career in marketing.
For me, my job is a pretty standard 9-5 schedule right now. Three days out of the week, I commute into the office (my commute is around an hour but can be a bit shorter). Two days, I work remote from home. I usually log on at about 8:30 and stay on until around 5, as do most of my colleagues. We have an hour for personal time which is when I take my lunch (from 12-1) but usually work through it, especially in the office. I make the time to have lunch with a colleague every Wednesday to make sure I'm still prioritizing making connections in the office, which is probably the best time of my day! I love getting to connect with people in the office. I don't usually have a worst part of the day, some are definitely more stressful that others but nothing specifically negative.
I really like this schedule but I feel that this is more rare these days - not a lot of people I know in entry-level positions get out at 5, especially in positions more related to finance.
I hope this helps!
I'm offering the perspective of someone with an entry-level career in marketing.
For me, my job is a pretty standard 9-5 schedule right now. Three days out of the week, I commute into the office (my commute is around an hour but can be a bit shorter). Two days, I work remote from home. I usually log on at about 8:30 and stay on until around 5, as do most of my colleagues. We have an hour for personal time which is when I take my lunch (from 12-1) but usually work through it, especially in the office. I make the time to have lunch with a colleague every Wednesday to make sure I'm still prioritizing making connections in the office, which is probably the best time of my day! I love getting to connect with people in the office. I don't usually have a worst part of the day, some are definitely more stressful that others but nothing specifically negative.
I really like this schedule but I feel that this is more rare these days - not a lot of people I know in entry-level positions get out at 5, especially in positions more related to finance.
I hope this helps!
Kazutoshi Okamoto
Auditor
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kazutoshi’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
The way a typical day goes can vary greatly depending on the industry, position, and whether it is a busy season or not, but for your reference, I would like to share my own experience.
I am an accountant and work in auditing companies. I usually start work around 9 a.m. and finish around 6 p.m. In the morning, I first check my emails and set priorities for the day, making sure there are no urgent matters that need immediate attention. My main tasks include preparing documents and researching accounting standards to answer companies’ accounting inquiries. I go to the office three times a week, and work remotely on the other days. Two or three times a week, I have meetings with clients to provide accounting consultations, share updates on audit progress, and request documents. The best part of my day is when I receive words of appreciation from clients. It makes me happy to feel that our work is making a contribution. The most challenging part is keeping up with the annual updates to accounting standards and applying them to my work in a timely manner. That’s a brief overview of my typical day. Thank you.
The way a typical day goes can vary greatly depending on the industry, position, and whether it is a busy season or not, but for your reference, I would like to share my own experience.
I am an accountant and work in auditing companies. I usually start work around 9 a.m. and finish around 6 p.m. In the morning, I first check my emails and set priorities for the day, making sure there are no urgent matters that need immediate attention. My main tasks include preparing documents and researching accounting standards to answer companies’ accounting inquiries. I go to the office three times a week, and work remotely on the other days. Two or three times a week, I have meetings with clients to provide accounting consultations, share updates on audit progress, and request documents. The best part of my day is when I receive words of appreciation from clients. It makes me happy to feel that our work is making a contribution. The most challenging part is keeping up with the annual updates to accounting standards and applying them to my work in a timely manner. That’s a brief overview of my typical day. Thank you.
Catherine Marsh
Corporate Strategy
8
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
There are a lot of scenarios and a lot of different schedules in these industries, but I have found that a common denominator is glorifying the grind. I have also come up through public accounting/finance and have put in those 12 hours days, and reference busy season, and "earning my keep".
But my answer today is to not let anyone tell you that you're less valuable if you don't overwork yourself in this industry. There is never a need to work in the evening and night (unless you choose to finish something you didn't get done during your working hours). Work-life balance begins with knowing when you're working hard vs overworking for a Company.
There are many companies out there (including in the finance field) that will respect your working hours of 8-5. If you enjoy the early 6am mornings and working late at night, then that is also fine but never pressure yourself into giving up those precious hours of your life if you don't want to. Humans need to live, and those hours after 5pm are all we get. Let's make the best use of them! It will also make you a more valuable employee in the long-term, since it's your time to let your brain think outside the box and be creative and free.
There are a lot of scenarios and a lot of different schedules in these industries, but I have found that a common denominator is glorifying the grind. I have also come up through public accounting/finance and have put in those 12 hours days, and reference busy season, and "earning my keep".
But my answer today is to not let anyone tell you that you're less valuable if you don't overwork yourself in this industry. There is never a need to work in the evening and night (unless you choose to finish something you didn't get done during your working hours). Work-life balance begins with knowing when you're working hard vs overworking for a Company.
There are many companies out there (including in the finance field) that will respect your working hours of 8-5. If you enjoy the early 6am mornings and working late at night, then that is also fine but never pressure yourself into giving up those precious hours of your life if you don't want to. Humans need to live, and those hours after 5pm are all we get. Let's make the best use of them! It will also make you a more valuable employee in the long-term, since it's your time to let your brain think outside the box and be creative and free.
ENIKO ROSTAS
Finance Executive
2
Answers
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Updated
ENIKO’s Answer
A typical day in accounting or finance really depends on your industry, role, and where you are in your career. Early on—especially in public accounting—my days were heavily driven by client deadlines. During busy season, I often worked long hours, averaging around 60 hours a week. That intensity was challenging but also rewarding, and over time, the hours fluctuated depending on the complexity and scope of projects. It's a good idea to ask about working hours during interviews and read online reviews of companies to get a realistic picture of the day-to-day expectations.
As I've advanced in my career into finance leadership roles, my responsibilities have shifted. While some days are easier to manage, others are packed with decision-making, troubleshooting, and back-to-back meetings. The perception that accounting and finance professionals spend all day doing math or memorizing formulas isn’t entirely accurate. Yes, being comfortable with numbers helps, but what’s more important is staying organized, being able to multitask, and knowing how to prioritize. These skills go a long way in managing stress and navigating the demands of the job. Ultimately, success in this field is less about raw math skills and more about problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.
As I've advanced in my career into finance leadership roles, my responsibilities have shifted. While some days are easier to manage, others are packed with decision-making, troubleshooting, and back-to-back meetings. The perception that accounting and finance professionals spend all day doing math or memorizing formulas isn’t entirely accurate. Yes, being comfortable with numbers helps, but what’s more important is staying organized, being able to multitask, and knowing how to prioritize. These skills go a long way in managing stress and navigating the demands of the job. Ultimately, success in this field is less about raw math skills and more about problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.
Sara Lane White
Drafting and publishing Policy
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Like most of the answers have alluded, everyone is going to have a different day-to-day, depending on their role, the company, and the type of work they are doing. I currently work in a finance org for a tech company, and my days are mostly filled with meetings - collaborating with various stakeholders to proactively plan our next fiscal year. Some days, I am in meetings for the majority of the day and it's difficult to get my actual, practical work done. Other days, I have a few hours to work on my projects. I would say that in environments where you have a lot of strategic meetings, it's so important to carve out some time (maybe 30 mins in the morning and 30 mins before you are finished up) to create a list of the things you want to accomplish that day and the list of things you will do tomorrow. Blocking time for yourself to ensure you are organized will help you set health boundaries for yourself as well as prevent you from having to work crazy hours because you haven't had time to get anything done.
I've also worked on an accounting team where I rarely had any meetings and my day was the exact same day every day. I had a very procedural job - meaning I would repeat the same process over and over again to accurately input my data entries.
So, it all depends on what area/role you go into!
I've also worked on an accounting team where I rarely had any meetings and my day was the exact same day every day. I had a very procedural job - meaning I would repeat the same process over and over again to accurately input my data entries.
So, it all depends on what area/role you go into!
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
179
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Cathy,
Business is a very broad field so there are a lot of different ways that a day can look depending on the person, their title, and their company.
For me my day starts around 5am with some gym time and reading my bible before work. then I go home and get ready for work and out the house around 6:45. I make it to work around 7:30 ish depending on traffic and start my work day. The first hour is usually getting caught up on any emails that I might have missed late the day before and ensuring I know what meetings I have for the day and have all my materials prepped for those meetings. the next several hours leading up to lunch is usually a mix of meetings and responding to emails. Then comes lunch break. An afternoon usually filled with more meetings leading up to the end of the day where the last 30 ish minutes is focused on catching up on any emails I might have missed and responding as well as ideally getting materials prepped for any meetings I have the next day if there is time usually around 4-4:30 is the end of the day. For the meetings this can be with a vast array of different people and teams so the subjects can vary greatly. I would say that is one of the best parts of my day is being able to work with so many different people and different subjects. I'm constantly learning new things which are interesting to me. Hope this helps and good luck on your journey.
Business is a very broad field so there are a lot of different ways that a day can look depending on the person, their title, and their company.
For me my day starts around 5am with some gym time and reading my bible before work. then I go home and get ready for work and out the house around 6:45. I make it to work around 7:30 ish depending on traffic and start my work day. The first hour is usually getting caught up on any emails that I might have missed late the day before and ensuring I know what meetings I have for the day and have all my materials prepped for those meetings. the next several hours leading up to lunch is usually a mix of meetings and responding to emails. Then comes lunch break. An afternoon usually filled with more meetings leading up to the end of the day where the last 30 ish minutes is focused on catching up on any emails I might have missed and responding as well as ideally getting materials prepped for any meetings I have the next day if there is time usually around 4-4:30 is the end of the day. For the meetings this can be with a vast array of different people and teams so the subjects can vary greatly. I would say that is one of the best parts of my day is being able to work with so many different people and different subjects. I'm constantly learning new things which are interesting to me. Hope this helps and good luck on your journey.
Chris Rochester
Business Operations
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
I've read through the responses you've received, and they all make good points.
From my 15 years in Business Operations and Financial Planning at a Fortune 500 company, I've learned there's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question. It depends on several factors, such as:
- The department you're in
- Your team's leadership and their needs
- The time of month or year, like the busy end-of-month financial close
- Your own willingness to take on projects
- Your personal responsibilities, like family needs
I've had jobs with strict 8-5 hours and others that required long days during important projects. It really comes down to what you want from your career. Do you aim for a top leadership role and a high salary, or do you prefer a balanced work-life with more family time, even if it means earning less?
There's no right or wrong choice—only what suits you best!
I've read through the responses you've received, and they all make good points.
From my 15 years in Business Operations and Financial Planning at a Fortune 500 company, I've learned there's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question. It depends on several factors, such as:
- The department you're in
- Your team's leadership and their needs
- The time of month or year, like the busy end-of-month financial close
- Your own willingness to take on projects
- Your personal responsibilities, like family needs
I've had jobs with strict 8-5 hours and others that required long days during important projects. It really comes down to what you want from your career. Do you aim for a top leadership role and a high salary, or do you prefer a balanced work-life with more family time, even if it means earning less?
There's no right or wrong choice—only what suits you best!
David Seides
Finance
29
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
David’s Answer
The finance roles I have had working in a big company tend to by cyclical. For a few days every month, we analyze what happened in the prior months results (could be revenue, expense, sales counts, etc.). A few times a year we spend days or weeks forecasting what we expect to happen in the coming months or year(s). And once a year, we will set budget targets for the upcoming year. Most of this work is accomplished using spreadsheet tools like Microsoft Excel.
As far as hours, that really depends more on the culture of the company you are working for. Some companies have set hours they want you to be working, others are more flexible.
As far as hours, that really depends more on the culture of the company you are working for. Some companies have set hours they want you to be working, others are more flexible.
Mayumi Ohmae
Tax Accountant
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
Mayumi’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
I work in accounting and tax, and I'd love to share a glimpse of my day with you. I usually start my morning around 6:30 am by checking emails. I head to the office around 8:15 am, and during my train ride, I get some work done. I typically reach the office by 10:00 am and work until about 5:15 pm before going home.
As a mom of two sons, my evenings are filled with household tasks and caring for my kids. After they go to bed, I often finish up more work. I really cherish the evenings when we all have dinner together. Balancing work and family can be tough, but my supportive coworkers and supervisors make my work environment a positive place.
I work in accounting and tax, and I'd love to share a glimpse of my day with you. I usually start my morning around 6:30 am by checking emails. I head to the office around 8:15 am, and during my train ride, I get some work done. I typically reach the office by 10:00 am and work until about 5:15 pm before going home.
As a mom of two sons, my evenings are filled with household tasks and caring for my kids. After they go to bed, I often finish up more work. I really cherish the evenings when we all have dinner together. Balancing work and family can be tough, but my supportive coworkers and supervisors make my work environment a positive place.
Juanita Joubert
I am a writer, financial accountant, social media manager, and publisher
25
Answers
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Updated
Juanita’s Answer
There is going to be a lot of different answers on this question, but let me tell you about my day. But first, I am an accountant, I own 2 of my own businesses, and I am a writer, so my days might be a little different.
One thing I have learned about being a business women, is starting your day as early as possible. I wake up at 5am to get my day started. I usually take an hour for myself before I start with work. At around 6am I start with planning out my day and getting all my tasks organized according to priority. Doing this helps set me up for the day, so I know what I need to do first, and which tasks can wait for later. The best part of my day is seeing my to-do list shrink and the worst part is getting quarries from customers about different things while I am busy with an important task. I love working in finance because there is never a dull moment, but it can be hectic at times, especially during a month end cycle, when you're expected to provide reports to your customers.
To answer your question about my workday. I usually start working at around 7a.m. and my day ends at around 4p.m. There might be times when I work past 4 if I have urgent matters that need to be finalized before I can sign off for the day, but when you plan out your day ahead of time, that almost never happens.
I hope this helps and you can make the best of your journey as an aspiring financial expert.
One thing I have learned about being a business women, is starting your day as early as possible. I wake up at 5am to get my day started. I usually take an hour for myself before I start with work. At around 6am I start with planning out my day and getting all my tasks organized according to priority. Doing this helps set me up for the day, so I know what I need to do first, and which tasks can wait for later. The best part of my day is seeing my to-do list shrink and the worst part is getting quarries from customers about different things while I am busy with an important task. I love working in finance because there is never a dull moment, but it can be hectic at times, especially during a month end cycle, when you're expected to provide reports to your customers.
To answer your question about my workday. I usually start working at around 7a.m. and my day ends at around 4p.m. There might be times when I work past 4 if I have urgent matters that need to be finalized before I can sign off for the day, but when you plan out your day ahead of time, that almost never happens.
I hope this helps and you can make the best of your journey as an aspiring financial expert.
Lori Berens, PMP
Program Manager
4
Answers
Concord, North Carolina
Updated
Lori’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
I've spent most of my career in these fields, taking on different roles. Typically, the work hours are from 8 to 5, but I now have a more flexible schedule, starting between 7 and 8 and finishing between 4 and 5. In accounting and finance, there were times when we couldn't take time off due to month-end and year-end closings. I really enjoy my current role because it doesn't have those restrictions.
The work environment can vary depending on the company and role. I'm fortunate to be in a positive setting where everyone helps each other out. It's great to be part of a supportive team. Each day brings different tasks, so work never feels dull, and there's always something new to tackle.
The toughest part of the job is finding discrepancies, even if it's just a penny. Month-end and year-end deadlines can also be challenging, but balancing accounts perfectly on the first try feels amazing! Overcoming a tough task is incredibly rewarding too.
If you enjoy change and challenges, this career can be very fulfilling. There are many paths to explore and grow in.
Wishing you the best in your career journey!
I've spent most of my career in these fields, taking on different roles. Typically, the work hours are from 8 to 5, but I now have a more flexible schedule, starting between 7 and 8 and finishing between 4 and 5. In accounting and finance, there were times when we couldn't take time off due to month-end and year-end closings. I really enjoy my current role because it doesn't have those restrictions.
The work environment can vary depending on the company and role. I'm fortunate to be in a positive setting where everyone helps each other out. It's great to be part of a supportive team. Each day brings different tasks, so work never feels dull, and there's always something new to tackle.
The toughest part of the job is finding discrepancies, even if it's just a penny. Month-end and year-end deadlines can also be challenging, but balancing accounts perfectly on the first try feels amazing! Overcoming a tough task is incredibly rewarding too.
If you enjoy change and challenges, this career can be very fulfilling. There are many paths to explore and grow in.
Wishing you the best in your career journey!
Marc-André Sabourin
Sales VP
5
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Marc-André’s Answer
Helly Kathy.
I can only speak to the business side (Sales Leadership) but my days are all different and I love it!
- I work from home and travel all across North America (1 week/month)
- I visit employees, partners & customer in different cities, industries with different challenges
- I coach my employees
- I help fix issues
- I help my team make decisions
- I report important information up to my managers
It is very fulfilling and I hope it helps!
Good luck.
MA
I can only speak to the business side (Sales Leadership) but my days are all different and I love it!
- I work from home and travel all across North America (1 week/month)
- I visit employees, partners & customer in different cities, industries with different challenges
- I coach my employees
- I help fix issues
- I help my team make decisions
- I report important information up to my managers
It is very fulfilling and I hope it helps!
Good luck.
MA
H K
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
H’s Answer
There really is no standard day for me. Just to give you some perspective, I've worked in Finance in various roles at various financial institutions. I've worked the standard 9 to 5 to basically pulling all-nighters/working weekends & holidays.
Your environment depends primarily on your immediate surroundings meaning manager/colleagues/role. The people you work with you'll probably see more than your family/friends. Some of my roles weren't great, but the people I worked with made it bearable. Vice versa. It could be a great role but if your managers/colleagues aren't pulling their weight or possible personality differences, it could make it not as bearable.
As your experience and network grow, you'll be able to start making more educated decisions. Feel free to reach out if you have any more specific questions.
Your environment depends primarily on your immediate surroundings meaning manager/colleagues/role. The people you work with you'll probably see more than your family/friends. Some of my roles weren't great, but the people I worked with made it bearable. Vice versa. It could be a great role but if your managers/colleagues aren't pulling their weight or possible personality differences, it could make it not as bearable.
As your experience and network grow, you'll be able to start making more educated decisions. Feel free to reach out if you have any more specific questions.
Simon Hardman
Financial Planning and Analysis
4
Answers
Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
Updated
Simon’s Answer
So much potential diversity in what it could be however let me give you some direction on what the objectives should be with a flavour of some of the activities there as well... The primary objective is to solve problems - that may sound very simplistic however... you need to be able to clarify complex situations to try and get to the root cause of problems. Then have a point of view on ways you can help that business overcome them or access opportunities in line with their strategy. You have to be a good communicator - having the best idea is no good if you can't convince them of the best action to take.
Kerry Stakem, CPC, ACC
Northeast People Leader at PwC
9
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kerry’s Answer
Every day in this field is different, which I find really exciting. This might not suit everyone, though. Your role might have steady tasks or change often. Think about what inspires you and find a job that fits your preference for either routine or variety. As I've moved forward in my career, each day brings fresh opportunities and challenges, keeping me motivated and learning all the time.
Janet Cooper
Tax Managing Director
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Janet’s Answer
Hi Cathy. My typical day has changed throughout my 18 year career because of internal and external factors and I value the flexibility I have been afforded to change my typical day as necessary.
When I first started my career, it was standard practice that we worked from the office or the client site Monday through Friday and often the weekends too during busy seasons or when time sensitive deadlines required the extra hours. The pandemic changed that to entirely working from home but now we're hybrid - on average 2-3 days in the office or client site but there's still flexibility in what that actually looks like based on each person's individual circumstances and engagement team dynamics. We don't want people in the office just to be physically in the office; instead, we want people connecting with each other while in the office to build a stronger internal network where people are investing in each other's growth and development.
When I commuted by train, I spent 30 minutes reading news articles (about anything I was interested in - politics, celebrity gossip, sports, fashion, business news, etc.) to stay current. I arrived in the office between 8a and 9a. I worked independently on tasks (e.g., preparing workpapers in Excel, preparing tax returns in tax software like GoSystems, etc.), attended live/group trainings, joined meetings with my team members and/or the client to discuss questions, expectations, timelines, addressed e-mails, etc. I typically took a lunch break with my colleagues at the nearby food court/food hall. I left between 5p and 6p from a safety perspective to ride home on the train in daylight and I would enter my time, address any e-mails I didn't get to, create my to-do list for the next day, and/or read a book to decompress. I would work more from home if needed. I was young, eager to learn as much as possible, and had less responsibilities at home so I spent my early years building my reputation and developing my skills.
When I moved cities and chose to live closer to the office, I worked with a lot of night owls. We were getting into the office or client site at 9:30a or 10a but we were also staying later until 7p or 8p with dinner catered in most nights. Sometimes we relocated to home and were working really late at night to overlap with our colleagues in other time zones like India. Since we stayed up later, we slept in more and showed up the next day later.
Now as a mom, I start my day after school drop-off around 8a and leave by 6p because being home for dinner/bath/bedtime is a priority to me. I also rarely work weekends as that time with my family is important to me. During my working hours I am super focused and very efficient with my time to ensure I accomplish everything that needs to be done so I can protect my personal time. Boundaries and priorities change over time which has led to a typical work day changing over time.
The key is communication. During recruiting/interviews, keep asking questions. Ask the same question to multiple different people. Once you're working, engage with your team members to figure out what everyone's preferred working style is and how you can all align with each other and support each other's preferences. As life changes, have the discussions again.
Best wishes!
When I first started my career, it was standard practice that we worked from the office or the client site Monday through Friday and often the weekends too during busy seasons or when time sensitive deadlines required the extra hours. The pandemic changed that to entirely working from home but now we're hybrid - on average 2-3 days in the office or client site but there's still flexibility in what that actually looks like based on each person's individual circumstances and engagement team dynamics. We don't want people in the office just to be physically in the office; instead, we want people connecting with each other while in the office to build a stronger internal network where people are investing in each other's growth and development.
When I commuted by train, I spent 30 minutes reading news articles (about anything I was interested in - politics, celebrity gossip, sports, fashion, business news, etc.) to stay current. I arrived in the office between 8a and 9a. I worked independently on tasks (e.g., preparing workpapers in Excel, preparing tax returns in tax software like GoSystems, etc.), attended live/group trainings, joined meetings with my team members and/or the client to discuss questions, expectations, timelines, addressed e-mails, etc. I typically took a lunch break with my colleagues at the nearby food court/food hall. I left between 5p and 6p from a safety perspective to ride home on the train in daylight and I would enter my time, address any e-mails I didn't get to, create my to-do list for the next day, and/or read a book to decompress. I would work more from home if needed. I was young, eager to learn as much as possible, and had less responsibilities at home so I spent my early years building my reputation and developing my skills.
When I moved cities and chose to live closer to the office, I worked with a lot of night owls. We were getting into the office or client site at 9:30a or 10a but we were also staying later until 7p or 8p with dinner catered in most nights. Sometimes we relocated to home and were working really late at night to overlap with our colleagues in other time zones like India. Since we stayed up later, we slept in more and showed up the next day later.
Now as a mom, I start my day after school drop-off around 8a and leave by 6p because being home for dinner/bath/bedtime is a priority to me. I also rarely work weekends as that time with my family is important to me. During my working hours I am super focused and very efficient with my time to ensure I accomplish everything that needs to be done so I can protect my personal time. Boundaries and priorities change over time which has led to a typical work day changing over time.
The key is communication. During recruiting/interviews, keep asking questions. Ask the same question to multiple different people. Once you're working, engage with your team members to figure out what everyone's preferred working style is and how you can all align with each other and support each other's preferences. As life changes, have the discussions again.
Best wishes!
Yetta Toliver, DBA, LSSBB
Human Resources and Compliance
2
Answers
Lewisville, Texas
Updated
Yetta’s Answer
Hi Cathy,
I've had a long career in business, focusing on leadership and management. I first thought about going into accounting but soon realized I enjoyed working with people more, which led me to business management.
My work schedule can vary a lot. Some days I start before 7 am and finish around 7 pm, while other days I work from 8 am to 5 pm. It all depends on what needs to be done and the meetings I have.
I like to keep things light by using humor and really listening to what my colleagues have to say. This helps me lead better and solve problems together.
I hope you find this helpful and enjoy the journey!
I've had a long career in business, focusing on leadership and management. I first thought about going into accounting but soon realized I enjoyed working with people more, which led me to business management.
My work schedule can vary a lot. Some days I start before 7 am and finish around 7 pm, while other days I work from 8 am to 5 pm. It all depends on what needs to be done and the meetings I have.
I like to keep things light by using humor and really listening to what my colleagues have to say. This helps me lead better and solve problems together.
I hope you find this helpful and enjoy the journey!
Colm McKenna
Chief Audit Executive
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Colm’s Answer
Hi Cathy!
I lead an internal audit, risk and compliance function. My day usually starts around 8am and ends around 6pm. Mornings are for reviewing reports and planning, afternoons are packed with meetings on audits, risks, and ethics. A big part of the job is connecting teams across all parts of the business, from operations to legal to sales. I also get to travel to different company locations, which keeps things interesting and helps build relationships. I have the flexibility to work in the office or remotely, depending on what’s needed. I really value the range of topics I get to work on and the variety in my role. The best part is helping leaders make better decisions, and the hardest part is managing global coordination across time zones.
I lead an internal audit, risk and compliance function. My day usually starts around 8am and ends around 6pm. Mornings are for reviewing reports and planning, afternoons are packed with meetings on audits, risks, and ethics. A big part of the job is connecting teams across all parts of the business, from operations to legal to sales. I also get to travel to different company locations, which keeps things interesting and helps build relationships. I have the flexibility to work in the office or remotely, depending on what’s needed. I really value the range of topics I get to work on and the variety in my role. The best part is helping leaders make better decisions, and the hardest part is managing global coordination across time zones.
April Flanigan, MPA
Tax Consultant
11
Answers
Lithonia, Georgia
Updated
April’s Answer
In public accounting, there's no set start or end time, but most people work around 9 to 5 or 6. Some days are easier, while others can be longer, especially during busy times. The great thing is the flexibility. Depending on your tasks, you might work from home, in an office, at a client's place, or even travel. Every day is different. The best part is doing work that feels meaningful and challenging. Busy seasons can be tough, but if you love what you do, it's all worth it. Hope this helps!
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
It’s wise to research prospective organizations that place a strong emphasis on positive workplace culture and work-life balance. Some people may laugh at this advice, but companies like that do exist. My former employer supported over 3,000 midsize to enterprise-level organizations across the country, so trust me—great companies are out there. And remember: this is your career. You have the power to choose who you work for.
Now retired from a long career in corporate business, I can offer a well-rounded perspective on what a typical day looks like for professionals in business, finance, accounting, and operations. My experience spans everything from entry level positions to corporate management and strategic planning to leading multiple departments, overseeing operational budgets, and guiding teams through periods of growth and uncertainty.
For most of my career—starting in non-management roles and eventually advancing to a corporate executive position—I lived by my calendar. Every hour was scheduled: meetings, calls, deadlines, and reviews. Yet I made it a priority to maintain a sense of work-life balance. Your career should never come at the cost of your personal time or, most importantly, your well-being. It takes intention and discipline to protect that space, but it’s essential for long-term success.
Most workdays began around 7:30 a.m. I would start by scanning emails, reviewing daily priorities, and reading updates from my departments—especially those that could impact strategic decisions. By 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., meetings would begin. These ranged from team briefings and cross-functional planning sessions to executive and management reviews of financial performance, budgets, forecasts, company metrics, and more.
The environment was fast-paced and goal-oriented, but also highly collaborative. Professionals in these fields often work across departments to drive efficiency, manage costs, and shape strategic direction. Late afternoons were typically reserved for focused work—analyzing reports, developing strategic plans, or preparing for management meetings and one-on-one sessions with employees. In operations, this might also include resolving workflow challenges or aligning daily execution with long-term goals.
The standard workday typically wrapped up around 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., although business travel, client meetings, dinner events, or conferences often extended those hours. Strategic employees tend to be highly intentional with how they use their time, which can dramatically increase productivity within an 8- to 9-hour workday. If you don’t proactively manage your “deep work” time throughout the week, you may find yourself working longer hours to achieve the same results. I often observed employees who, by maintaining focus for 7 hours, accomplished what others took 12 hours or more to complete. Time spent in the office is not an accurate measure of output—productivity varies widely depending on one’s focus and habits.
What I enjoyed most was solving real problems—using insight to improve performance and shape outcomes. Another deeply rewarding aspect was mentoring others and watching them succeed through their own hard work and growth. The most challenging part, especially at the executive level, was the constant demand for your time and attention. Without strong boundaries, it’s easy to let your personal life take a backseat.
Now that I’m retired, I look back on my career with pride. The world of business and finance offers structure, challenge, and meaningful impact—but it also requires balance, discipline, and self-awareness. And remember: if you don’t aspire to pursue a management path, that’s completely fine. You can build a successful, fulfilling career outside of management. To anyone entering the field: choose your workplace carefully, protect your time, and never lose sight of what matters most.
Best wishes,
Wyatt
Now retired from a long career in corporate business, I can offer a well-rounded perspective on what a typical day looks like for professionals in business, finance, accounting, and operations. My experience spans everything from entry level positions to corporate management and strategic planning to leading multiple departments, overseeing operational budgets, and guiding teams through periods of growth and uncertainty.
For most of my career—starting in non-management roles and eventually advancing to a corporate executive position—I lived by my calendar. Every hour was scheduled: meetings, calls, deadlines, and reviews. Yet I made it a priority to maintain a sense of work-life balance. Your career should never come at the cost of your personal time or, most importantly, your well-being. It takes intention and discipline to protect that space, but it’s essential for long-term success.
Most workdays began around 7:30 a.m. I would start by scanning emails, reviewing daily priorities, and reading updates from my departments—especially those that could impact strategic decisions. By 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., meetings would begin. These ranged from team briefings and cross-functional planning sessions to executive and management reviews of financial performance, budgets, forecasts, company metrics, and more.
The environment was fast-paced and goal-oriented, but also highly collaborative. Professionals in these fields often work across departments to drive efficiency, manage costs, and shape strategic direction. Late afternoons were typically reserved for focused work—analyzing reports, developing strategic plans, or preparing for management meetings and one-on-one sessions with employees. In operations, this might also include resolving workflow challenges or aligning daily execution with long-term goals.
The standard workday typically wrapped up around 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., although business travel, client meetings, dinner events, or conferences often extended those hours. Strategic employees tend to be highly intentional with how they use their time, which can dramatically increase productivity within an 8- to 9-hour workday. If you don’t proactively manage your “deep work” time throughout the week, you may find yourself working longer hours to achieve the same results. I often observed employees who, by maintaining focus for 7 hours, accomplished what others took 12 hours or more to complete. Time spent in the office is not an accurate measure of output—productivity varies widely depending on one’s focus and habits.
What I enjoyed most was solving real problems—using insight to improve performance and shape outcomes. Another deeply rewarding aspect was mentoring others and watching them succeed through their own hard work and growth. The most challenging part, especially at the executive level, was the constant demand for your time and attention. Without strong boundaries, it’s easy to let your personal life take a backseat.
Now that I’m retired, I look back on my career with pride. The world of business and finance offers structure, challenge, and meaningful impact—but it also requires balance, discipline, and self-awareness. And remember: if you don’t aspire to pursue a management path, that’s completely fine. You can build a successful, fulfilling career outside of management. To anyone entering the field: choose your workplace carefully, protect your time, and never lose sight of what matters most.
Best wishes,
Wyatt
Jungeun Lee
Finance
1
Answer
Seoul, South Korea
Updated
Jungeun’s Answer
A typical day in business, accounting, or finance really depends on the industry and the company you work for. Organizational goals and vision can shape expectations for your role significantly, so there’s no universal answer. From the perspective of someone in a finance controller role, here’s a general outline:
Start & End Times: Usually standard business hours (around 9 AM to 6 PM), but flexibility is often needed for global collaboration or urgent requests.
Daily Activities:
Reviewing financial performance and ensuring alignment with organizational targets
Partnering with internal business teams to provide insights and guidance on budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation
Supporting decision-making by preparing reports, dashboards, and variance analyses
Handling compliance and internal controls to maintain accuracy and transparency
Environment: It’s highly collaborative—lots of interaction with sales, operations, and leadership teams. The role combines structured financial tasks with strategic discussions, so communication skills matter as much as technical expertise.
Best Part of the Day: Influencing business decisions and seeing how financial insights drive growth and efficiency.
Challenging Part: Managing competing priorities and tight deadlines, especially during month/quarter close or budget planning time.
Again, this can vary widely. In some industries, finance controllers may focus more on cost control and compliance, while in others, they play a bigger role in strategic planning and investment decisions.
Start & End Times: Usually standard business hours (around 9 AM to 6 PM), but flexibility is often needed for global collaboration or urgent requests.
Daily Activities:
Reviewing financial performance and ensuring alignment with organizational targets
Partnering with internal business teams to provide insights and guidance on budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation
Supporting decision-making by preparing reports, dashboards, and variance analyses
Handling compliance and internal controls to maintain accuracy and transparency
Environment: It’s highly collaborative—lots of interaction with sales, operations, and leadership teams. The role combines structured financial tasks with strategic discussions, so communication skills matter as much as technical expertise.
Best Part of the Day: Influencing business decisions and seeing how financial insights drive growth and efficiency.
Challenging Part: Managing competing priorities and tight deadlines, especially during month/quarter close or budget planning time.
Again, this can vary widely. In some industries, finance controllers may focus more on cost control and compliance, while in others, they play a bigger role in strategic planning and investment decisions.