Getting the Younger Generation On Board

Source: Practical Accountant

This article offers tips for attracting and retaining Generation Y and younger Generation X staffers. Here are some of the highlights:

• Get younger staff members involved with recruiting. They are more “relatable” to students and help create a bond between the firm and potential employees.
• Have a mentoring program as well as a “buddy system,” which pairs new hires with young staffers.
• Contests and cutting-edge entertainment software are big draws for younger prospects. One firm holds drawings for iPods and Wii game systems. Another keeps in touch with potential recruits by sending them a CD with music selected by younger staff.
• Use social networks, like Facebook and LinkedIn.
• Begin the recruiting process in high school.
• Encourage staffers to participate in the state CPA society's young professionals group.
• Participate in charitable activities, such as Habitat for Humanity or toy drives.
• Provide opportunities for client contact. Arrange client visits and tours.
• Keep in touch with professors and get to know accounting club officers. Stay involved with young professional networking clubs and sponsor networking events.
• Let younger prospects know the benefits of working for your firm in addition to vacation and health care. Examples include wellness programs, technology, CPA exam support, mentoring, and interaction with clients.
• Be sure that information about your firm is available on the Internet. Many prospective staffers will judge your firm based solely on your Web site.
• Offer alternative career paths and cross-training.
• Consider a business casual dress code, flexible hours, and telecommuting.
• Be upfront about the challenges facing new professionals and about opportunities for advancement at your firm.
• Stress work/life balance. Provide diversity in work assignments.
• Recognize individual achievements; offer timely feedback on performance.

For the complete article, click here and select “Onboarding New Staff,” in the May 2009 issue.

From Practical Accountant, February 2009, SourceMedia Inc., One State Street Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10004, 800-221-1809.