Math Wizards Or Problem Solvers? New Survey Shows Accountants Prefer Tackling Problems Over Crunching Numbers

MENLO PARK, Calif., March 18, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- It's tax season, and many people are on a first-name basis with their personal accountant. What they may not know is what accountants enjoy most about their profession. In a Robert Half Finance & Accounting survey, accounting and finance professionals said solving problems (41 percent) gives them the most career satisfaction, ahead of working with numbers (22 percent). Respondents also said they like making strategic recommendations for the business (17 percent).

The online survey was developed and conducted by Robert Half Finance & Accounting, the world's first and largest specialized financial recruitment service. It includes responses from more than 2,600 finance and accounting professionals in the United States.

Finance and accounting professionals were asked, "What part of working in the accounting and finance profession do you enjoy the most?" Their responses: 

"Accountants are key success drivers for their businesses, and they contribute more than many people presume," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. "Accounting and finance teams are responsible for accurate financial reporting, but they also help to ensure their organizations remain in regulatory compliance, identify growth opportunities and provide strategic guidance from the department level to the executive ranks."

McDonald pointed out that the volume of information now available to businesses increases an accountant's value even further. "Accounting and finance professionals regularly mine data to identify historical trends and make projections based on those findings. They also can uncover potential areas for concern and put their problem-solving skills to work in the process."

About Robert Half Finance & Accounting 
Founded in 1948, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, a division of Robert Half, is the world's first and largest specialized financial recruitment service. The company has more than 340 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at roberthalffinance.com. For finance and accounting career and management advice, follow our blog at blog.roberthalffinance.com.

SOURCE Robert Half Finance & Accounting