26 Nov What I Wish I Knew Before My First Busy Season: Insights for Future Accountants
Busy season has a reputation — and let’s be honest, it’s not always a flattering one. If you’re a student or entering the field for the first time, you’ve probably heard the stories: long hours, high pressure, and a pace that leaves little room to breathe.
Both Stephen Dallara, a Tax Associate, and Henry Kunz, an Audit Associate at Blackman & Sloop, were in that same position not long ago. Each entered their first busy season with plenty of uncertainty and more than a few horror stories ringing in their ears. What they found, though, was far more balanced, manageable, and supportive than they expected, and full of lessons they still carry today.
Adjusting Expectations
Stephen went in bracing for 80–100 hour weeks. Henry, who had also heard the “busy season legends,” wondered whether the firm’s promises of work–life balance would hold up once the real pressure hit.
The reality? Both discovered that Blackman & Sloop delivered exactly what had been promised.
Stephen’s workload averaged 55–60 hours per week, demanding, but far from overwhelming, thanks to intentional staffing, steady communication, and a culture built to keep people from getting buried.
“They encourage staff to pace themselves and make sure no one gets buried in work,” he says. “That made a big difference.”
Henry had similar doubts. He knew the firm emphasized people-first values and balance, but he’d seen how often those assurances collapse once busy season begins. His experience quickly erased that skepticism.
“I found that Blackman & Sloop gave me exactly what was advertised,” he says. “A work-life balance that allowed me to succeed in all areas of my life, even during busy season.”
Learning to Prepare and Stay Organized
Stephen prepared by reviewing foundational tax concepts and familiarizing himself with the season’s general rhythm. Henry’s first season, however, began mid-August — right in the middle of the audit team’s unique cycle dominated by 6/30 year-end clients.
“I didn’t have much time to prepare,” Henry says. “It was a baptism by fire. But even in the craziness, I never felt unheard. My mentors and colleagues guided me through every step.”
One of Stephen’s biggest takeaways came down to something deceptively simple: email organization.
“I didn’t have a good system at first,” he recalls. “Later in the season, I created folders by client. It helped a ton. I wish I’d done that from day one.”
Henry echoes the importance of organization. He relies on methodical scheduling, to-do lists, and up-to-date client notes to stay on track.
Managing a Full Workload
Handling multiple clients and deadlines is an adjustment for every new professional. Stephen remembers one piece of advice from Partner Ben Johnson that stayed with him:
“Your workflow will be full from late January to April. Don’t panic. Work first-in, first-out. Be efficient. Some returns will be extended, and that’s okay.”
Learning that extensions aren’t failures, just part of the process, helped him stay focused and steady.
Henry’s approach centers on building systems and not shying away from asking questions. “Do not be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes,” he says. “That’s how you learn.”
Avoiding Burnout
Both associates leaned on habits that helped them maintain perspective and energy during their busiest weeks.
Stephen made one non-negotiable a priority: a full day off each week. “Even if I worked the rest of the weekend,” he says, “a reset day kept me going.” Short walks, coffee breaks, and stepping away for a mental reset also played a role.
Henry’s anchor was activity. “Staying active is one of the best stress relievers there is,” he says. “My daily workout routine kept me happy, kept my sleep schedule in balance, and helped level my energy throughout the day.” Coffee and good music didn’t hurt either.
What They Wish They’d Known
Stephen’s advice to his past self? Don’t let the workload intimidate you. Take it one return at a time.
Henry puts it this way: “I wish I had known it’s not as scary as it’s made out to be, especially when you have a team that genuinely looks out for you. The fear of endless 70-hour weeks just isn’t a reality here.”
A Final Word for New Professionals
If they could leave this year’s new hires with one message, it would be this: Be willing to ask questions. Stay organized. Take care of yourself. And trust that with the right support, busy season isn’t something to dread — it’s an opportunity to grow your skills, find your rhythm, and build real confidence in your career.
At Blackman & Sloop, we’re committed to giving our young professionals the structure, tools, and community they need to thrive, not just survive, their first busy season.