Lately, it feels like hiring an accountant requires a magnifying glass, a treasure map, and a whole lot of luck. So we went straight to our resident accounting expert, Stacey Ferrara, to get to the bottom of it.
Stacey isn’t just any recruiter—she’s a CPA with over 25 years of combined experience in public accounting, corporate finance, and talent acquisition. Translation? She knows her debits from her credits and her candidates.
“We are facing a shortage of talent due to a decline in the number of accounting graduates and the appeal of other professions like technology and finance,” Stacey says. “Accounting jobs can be highly demanding, require long hours, and sometimes do not pay according to the demand, so people leave soon after entry. But the most critical issue is the aging workforce and so many close to retirement.”
Let’s break it down.
The Fallout: A Hiring Crunch That’s No Joke
With fewer grads and more demand than ever, companies are:
- Taking longer to fill roles
- Needing to pay more for talent
- Watching their existing teams burn out faster than a candle in a tax audit
How to Fight the Shortage Like a Pro
The good news? This isn’t an unsolvable mystery. Here are a few ways companies can turn the tide:
- Show Them the Money (and the Balance)
Want top talent? Pay them like pros. Entry-level roles need competitive salaries that match the workload. Sweeten the deal with sign-on bonuses, career development, and yes—work-life balance. - Grow Your Own Accounting Avengers
Look within. Got a spreadsheet rockstar or a detail-oriented finance assistant? Upskill them. Support their CPA goals and throw in a cupcake when they pass the exam. Motivation matters. - Rebrand the Role
Accounting is more than debits and credits—it’s a gateway to leadership, entrepreneurship, and strategic roles. Colleges, professors, and career advisors should help students see the full picture. “Accounting is an excellent foundation for a wide range of career opportunities,” says Stacey. “Helping students understand the versatility of this degree can make a big difference.” - Get Smart About Salaries
Not sure what to offer? Stacey works with clients daily to ensure compensation matches market expectations. Because lowballing a CPA in this market is like asking a Michelin chef to cook for exposure.
Ready to Stop Chasing Unicorns?
At High Profile Staffing, we don’t just know accounting—we speak fluent GAAP. Whether you’re hiring a seasoned pro or your next rising star, our team knows how to find (and keep) the talent you need.
Let’s make your next hire a solid investment. Connect with Stacey Ferrara to learn more about what’s happening in the accounting world—and how we can help you stand out.
Because finding great accountants shouldn’t feel like balancing the books in the dark.
