I've been working in public accounting firms for a very long time. I just finished my 22nd April 15 deadline, but I've never seen anything like this.
Like most businesses, our firm has been hit hard by the downturn in the economy. The glory days of excess have ended, and we all knew that tough decisions would be needed after April 15.
Today was the day, and we were shocked and not prepared for how many would be let go. There was much hugging and crying in the halls as we said goodbye to those who were leaving. Friends and co-workers and mentees who I have worked with for years. People who I have a great deal of respect for and who will be total assets wherever they land. Through no fault of their own, our firm just could not support the same staff with fewer clients.
Seems I am one of the survivors. One poor manager stopped me in the hall "I have another form to file but I don't know who works here anymore". OK - gotta find some humor where you can I guess. But the poor guy was serious. And yes, it was just that bad. 15% of us - gone.