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MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Greener pastures for workers may come in the form of the opportunity to learn something new, a recent survey by Robert Half Finance & Accounting suggests.
Among finance and accounting professionals surveyed, 64 percent said the chance to gain new skills is a critical consideration when making a career move. Fifty percent also reported they are very concerned about keeping their skills current in the next few years; another 38 percent noted they were somewhat concerned. The research revealed that the value placed on learning and keeping skills current was greatest for those early in their careers but still significant for those who have risen through the ranks.
Finance and accounting professionals were asked, "When evaluating a new job opportunity, how important is the ability to gain new skills in that role?" Their responses:
|
Total |
Entry |
Staff |
Management |
Executive |
|
|
Very important |
64% |
81% |
68% |
55% |
55% |
|
Somewhat important |
34% |
17% |
30% |
43% |
41% |
|
Not at all important |
2% |
2% |
2% |
2% |
4% |
|
100% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
Respondents also were asked, "How concerned are you about keeping your skills current in the next three to five years?" Their responses:
|
Total |
Entry |
Staff |
Management |
Executive |
|
|
Very concerned |
50% |
61% |
57% |
44% |
38% |
|
Somewhat concerned |
38% |
32% |
34% |
43% |
40% |
|
Not at all concerned |
12% |
7% |
9% |
13% |
22% |
|
100% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
"Workers at every career stage want to keep their skills both current and relevant," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. "In today's competitive hiring market, a robust professional development program can be an appealing benefit to would-be new hires."
McDonald pointed out that training programs also are a powerful retention tool. "Our company's research has found a lack of advancement opportunities is a top reason good employees quit, trailing only inadequate compensation," he said. "A company's best performers are often the first to leave if their employer does not provide ample training and development to help them grow professionally."
Survey Methodology
The online survey was developed and conducted by Robert Half Finance & Accounting. It includes responses from more than 2,500 finance and accounting professionals in the United States.
About Robert Half Finance & Accounting
Founded in 1948, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, a division of Robert Half, is the world's first and largest specialized financial recruitment service. The company has more than 340 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at roberthalffinance.com. For finance and accounting career and management advice, visit our blog at blog.roberthalffinance.com.
SOURCE Robert Half Finance & Accounting