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A “talent war” is on track to be a big trend for accounting practices in 2022, with employers considering a number of “feel-good perks” to attract top talent.
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The work perks attracting new-to-industry accountants
22 December 2021
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According to dmca director Tania Tonkin, the new year is presenting ample opportunity for smaller accounting and business advisory firms to offer greater incentives that go beyond the financials.
“The pandemic has really made people think about what they want in a workplace, and it isn’t the biggest paycheck or bonus these days, or working for a glitzy multinational company,” Ms Tonkin said.
“There are other incentives that motivate new recruits to join – many are even prepared to move to smaller cities for a better lifestyle. We think SMEs have a real advantage when selling their benefits now.”
Some of these benefits could be offering a greater work-life balance, Ms Tonkin said, noting that her firm's attention to mental health, share schemes and a “values based” culture was part of their recruitment strategy and that was paying off.
“Considering the ‘great resignation’ trend actually helps us to focus more on what we stand for as a business," she said.
“Being a smaller consulting firm has worked well for us because it is easier to create a real sense of connection in the office and to build a positive culture, and a fun place to work. We find people come to us and stay.
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“The environment is a big part of it – we moved to a new office a few months ago and we are now located across the road from the South Parklands. The team appreciate being in a low rise building with a close connection to nature so they can get out for pleasant walks or find an outdoor café in this area just to enjoy the surroundings.
“We have recently put in place an employee share scheme, individual wellbeing programs including weekly massages for staff, plus we’ve now got new breakout areas, a great lunchroom with free fresh fruit and nibbles, and new recreational facilities in the office including pool table and games area which the team really enjoy.”
Ultimately, Ms Tonkin said businesses in 2022 needed to show they cared about more than just a bottom line "because as well as creating happier teams, it also helped retention rates and created better engagement at work".
“Being values-driven is appealing because people can get to know clients well and make efforts to connect with the community and feel like they make a difference. That’s the kind of meaning people are looking for these days and I think businesses should be doing what they can to actively encourage positive mental health in workplaces," she said.
“Our teams support local charities and run fundraising events in the office, and we encourage staff to get involved in volunteering days for everything from Meals on Wheels to St Vincent’s. It helps address the burnout many might be feeling from the pandemic.”
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