5 Accounting Trends for Hiring to Watch Out for in 2020

As we head into a new decade, the accounting industry continues to evolve. With the number of graduates entering the field continuing to decrease, the demand for accountants, especially those with specialized skills, and a number of accounting job vacancies continues to increase. Due to the changing demographics of accountants, companies need to adapt to evolve to attract new talent. Be on the lookout for these five accounting trends for hiring.

Employers Seeking Specific Accounting Skills

With the rise of automation for basic accounting tasks, employers are looking for accountants with more specialized, higher-level skills. For instance, knowledge of data analytics and cybertechnologies, critical thinking and client skills are increasingly in demand. Because these skills typically aren’t taught in college accounting courses, professionals who have them are in even greater need.

Accountants Changing Jobs More Often

With the number of available accounting jobs, more accountants will take advantage of their options for where they want to work. Many accountants will change employers to negotiate a greater income. Some will want to expand their skill set by taking on additional responsibilities, clientele or finance specialties.

Demographics of Accountants Changing

Because Millennials soon will make up most of the workforce, the demographics of people working as accountants are changing. As a result, employers need to find ways to adapt to the changes to continue to grow. For instance, owners of public accounting firms and other companies should review their last 10 hires to determine how many stayed for 5 years, how many left and why. Owners also need to determine whether they’re employing a diverse workforce to help grow their business.

Accountants Being Offered Top Perks

Along with accountants being able to negotiate higher salaries, they’re able to negotiate top perks. For instance, accountants can improve work-life balance through telecommuting, on-site daycare and formal programs that help returning employees ease back into the workplace after leaving. Accountants also may receive additional vacation days during the non-tax season, be able to leave the office earlier in Summer, or work flexible hours, including part-time.

Accounting Jobs Going Unfilled

Given the high demand for accountants and a lower number of people entering the field, a significant number of accounting positions remain unfilled. Popular reasons include lack of expertise, cultural fit and problem-solving skills. Financial analysts, internal auditors and tax and general accountants are in the greatest demand. With the difficulty of finding full-time accountants, many temporary or contract accountants are being hired to fill the openings.

Fill Your Accountant Hiring Needs in 2020

Fill your accountant jobs in Chicago, IL, with help from Casey Accounting & Finance Resources. Our extensive networking and recruitment programs identify all levels of accounting and finance candidates, including candidates with hard-to-find skills. Get in touch with us today!