Survey: More than 9 in 10 Companies in Canada Offer Employees Financial Support for Certifications

Canadian CFOs Cite Resulting Productivity Increase as Top Benefit for Businesses

TORONTO, March 21, 2019 /CNW/ - Workers today can expand their professional skills with less financial stress thanks to a majority of employers in Canada offering to cover or offset educational costs, research suggests. In a new survey from global recruitment firm Robert Half Finance & Accounting, most CFOs in Canada (92 per cent) said their companies foot the bill for some or all costs for staff to obtain professional certifications. Ninety-three per cent provide full or partial support to maintain credentials.

Credentials are costly, but most companies know it's worth it to foot the bill. (CNW Group/Robert Half Finance & Accounting)

Executives reported bottom-line benefits from this incentive, with increased productivity (40 per cent) and enhanced retention efforts (30 per cent) topping the list. CFOs also said providing financial assistance for employees' professional development brings in additional revenue, contributes to succession planning and enhances information-sharing among colleagues.

"Many employers provide support for continuing education because they recognize how essential employees with up-to-date skills and industry knowledge are to the success of their business," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, International Staffing Operations. "Companies should make an effort to promote learning opportunities to their teams and in the hiring process. For top professionals, skill development is key to career advancement, and they are drawn to organizations that prioritize employee growth and invest in their ongoing education." 

"For workers, an active interest in professional development can help them stand out as adaptable and open to new challenges and responsibilities," added Scileppi. "When requesting learning support from your manager come prepared to show how the additional expertise will have a positive impact on your role, career and the organization overall."

About the Research
The online survey of CFOs was developed by Robert Half Finance & Accounting and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on responses from more than 300 CFOs at Canadian companies with 20 or more employees.

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 300 locations worldwide. For more information, visit roberthalf.ca/finance. For finance and accounting management and career advice, visit our blog.

SOURCE Robert Half Finance & Accounting

Natasha Ferraro, 647.956.5575, [email protected]