Social Media and the Talent Wars

Source: CPA Leadership Institute Leadership Forum Report

Each month, the Leadership Forum Report asks experts in the field to weigh in on questions about the accounting profession — trends, best practices, the future, and more. Following are this month's question and highlights of what the experts had to say.

Do you feel the use of social media is a good strategy to attract and retain young talent and why?

“Absolutely. Over the past decade many firms have reconsidered the restrictions they once placed on social media — recognizing the scope and reach it has — particularly on the Gen X and Gen Y — nearly all of whom have a presence on platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Firms that are progressive and updated when it comes to IT and social media become far more desirable places of employment for young talent.” — William Carlino, Transition Advisors LLC

“Social media is a tool, not a replacement for effective face-to-face or phone communication (leadership, teamwork, and client updates). We have developed employment screeners for applicants to complete before being interviewed. That is a way to measure talent while attracting talent. Retention of staff goes well beyond social media. As a communication tool social media can assist, but only assist, in retaining talent. As much as it may help it could also be a distraction during the work day. Most firms have social media policies to regulate what is and is not appropriate for social media use (during and after work). It is wise for partners to discuss the appropriate use of social media with input from staff.” — Rex Gatto, Gatto Associates, LLC

For the complete report, click here.

From CPA Leadership Institute Leadership Forum Report, January 2016, //www.cpaleadership.com.