Is Your Staff Overpaid?

Source: Solutions for CPA Firm Leaders

The following includes excerpts, reproduced with permission, from a blog entry by Rita Keller.

Many firms have long-time administrative people, good performers, and just because of their annual wage increases over many years they are significantly above the pay scale for administrative people in the firm's geographic area.

I encounter this issue in many CPA firms. What I always ask is, “Are they doing more than they did last year?” 

By more I mean something outside the routine assignments they have been performing for years. Have they read a book that could enhance their skill? Have they completed Microsoft Office User accreditation? Have they participated in cross-training and other proactive activities?

If they are participating in goal setting each year and achieving goals, then some reward is appropriate. However, what I usually find is that these long-time administrative people are “protected.” Meaning that they have been with the firm so long and loyal to a partner so long, that they will never be pushed to step up or step out. In fact, many are still resisting all of the technology that is available 

Another goal you might consider is to ask administrative employees to join the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) and attend local chapter meetings (of course the firm should support them by covering expenses). There is a certification available via IAAP also.

As their supervisor you should be aggressive in asking them to continually improve and do more or work more efficiently to earn a pay increase. Keep in mind you are running a business and keeping salaries “at market” is always something to strive for. 

For the complete article, read “What If You Are Paying Too Much?”

From Solutions for CPA Firm Leaders, the blog of Rita Keller, July 6, 2015, ritakeller.com/blog.