The Problem with “Fast-Paced” in Accounting Job Postings
As a recruiter in the accounting and finance industry, I’ve seen countless job descriptions come across my desk. One phrase that consistently catches my eye – and not necessarily in a good way – is “fast-paced environment.” While it might seem like a harmless descriptor, these words could be doing more harm than good when it comes to attracting top talent, and they may deter qualified candidates from applying.
The "Fast-Paced" Epidemic
A recent Business News Daily article suggested that candidates seeking work-life balance are less likely to apply for positions described as “fast-paced.” A position that offers work-life balance is a primary motivator for someone to leave their current position. This is especially true for those considering leaving public accounting.
While the term “fast-paced” does not mean, “a lot of hours.” It describes an environment where there is too much to do in the time you have.
Crunching the Numbers
- 221 “fast-paced” job postings in the Greater Phoenix area (last 30 days)
- 148 were in accounting and finance (66% of the total!)
- Other functions:
- Sales: 14 postings
- Healthcare: 9 postings
- HR: 9 postings
- IT: 4 postings
That is a big difference! Why do accounting postings use this term compared to others?
The Reality vs. The Description
Accounting is NOT the only One
- Sales teams have quotas and revenue targets
- IT departments deal with critical system updates and security threats
- Marketing departments have client requests and demands
I find it very hard to believe that there is not a professional function that isn’t fast-paced. The truth is that most professional roles involve some degree of urgency and efficiency. By overusing “fast-paced,” we may be:
- Unnecessarily limiting our applicant pool
- Misrepresenting the actual work environment
- Failing to differentiate our opportunities from competitors
- Potentially scaring away candidates who value work-life balance
Rethinking how we talk about Accounting Departments
- Attracting candidates who thrive on stress and may burn out quickly
- Deterring experienced professionals looking for a stable, long-term position
- Misaligning expectations, leading to higher turnover rates
- Missing out on diverse candidates who bring valuable perspectives to the team
What Should We Say
- Specific responsibilities and expectations
- Unique aspects of the company culture
- Opportunities for growth and development
- Concrete examples of work-life balance initiatives
- The impact of the role on the organization
- Any flexible work arrangements or benefits
How to Write Your Accounting Job Posting
- Be specific: Instead of “fast-paced,” describe the actual pace of work. For example, “You’ll manage monthly close processes with a five-day turnaround time.”
- Highlight the positives: Focus on what makes your company a great place to work. This could include mentorship programs, professional development opportunities, or a collaborative team environment.
- Be honest about challenges: If the role does involve periods of intensity, be upfront about it. For example, “While we maintain a healthy work-life balance, our quarter-end periods involve additional hours to meet deadlines.”
- Showcase your culture: Does your company offer flexible hours? Summer Fridays? Team-building events? These details can set you apart from competitors.
- Emphasize growth: Many candidates are looking for roles where they can develop their skills. Highlight potential career paths within your organization.
- Use inclusive language: Ensure your job description appeals to a diverse range of candidates.
The Role of Recruitment Agencies
- Help you identify the key selling points of your role and company
- Craft compelling job descriptions that attract top talent
- Provide insights into current market trends and candidate expectations
- Tap into a wider network of qualified professionals
- Screen candidates effectively, saving you time and resources
We are in the weeds of the Arizona job market on a daily basis. Whether you need assistance in recruiting the right candidate or are looking for expert guidance on how to write a good job posting, we are here to help.
Conclusion: A New Approach for Accounting and Finance Recruitment
Accounting is not the only fast-paced function. It is time to move beyond the generic descriptors and create more authentic and appealing job postings that attract the right candidates.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to fill a position – it’s to find someone who will be successful in your organization, contribute to your team’s success, and grow with your company. By being more thoughtful and specific in our job descriptions, we can attract candidates who are not only qualified but also aligned with our company’s values and culture.
We can Help
Are you ready to update your recruitment process? Whether you need help creating the perfect job description or want to explore the benefits of working with a specialized recruitment agency, we’re here to help. Let’s connect and discuss how we can find the ideal candidates for your team.
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About The Resource Link
For almost two decades, The Resource Link has strategically placed Accounting, Finance, & Human Resource talent with some of the best companies in Arizona! We consult with our hiring managers and candidates to dive into the best solutions and outcomes and we provide advice and feedback along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or just pick up the phone! We would love to hear from you to help you build the best team or find the best career.
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