Majority of Workers Value Ability to Gain New Skills When Evaluating Job Offers

Survey Finds Professionals Also Concerned About Keeping Skills Current

TORONTO, Sept. 17, 2015 /CNW/ - 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, 62 per cent said the chance to gain new skills is a critical consideration when making a career move. Almost half (47 per cent) also reported they are very concerned about keeping their skills current in the next few years; another 39 per cent 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	62%	72%	67%	59%	56%
Somewhat important	35%	28%	32%	37%	41%
Not at all important	2%	0%	1%	3%	3%
	99%	100%	100%	100%	100%

*Responses do not total 100 per cent due to rounding

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	47%	67%	50%	46%	36%
Somewhat concerned	39%	23%	34%	43%	43%
Not at all concerned	14%	10%	16%	11%	20%
	100%	100%	100%	100%	99%

*Responses do not total 100 per cent due to rounding

"In-demand job skills are ever-evolving and professionals, regardless of their career level, must take every opportunity to develop their expertise in order to stay relevant," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, International Staffing Operations. "Companies that promote professional development initiatives have a clear advantage when looking to attract top talent in an increasingly competitive hiring market. By offering these programs, firms demonstrate a vested interest in the growth of their employee's careers. This commitment to continuous learning and innovation will set them apart in the eyes of skilled job seekers."

Survey Methodology
The online survey was developed and conducted by Robert Half Finance & Accounting. It includes responses from more than 550 finance and accounting professionals in Canada.

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.ca. For finance and accounting career and management advice, follow our blog at blog.roberthalffinance.com. Follow @RobertHalf_CAN on Twitter for additional workplace advice and hiring trends.

SOURCE Robert Half Finance & Accounting

Naz Araghian, 416.865.2140, [email protected]