Menu
07/05/2002
Young accountants press for flexible working hours
Most accountants under the age of 30 want a shorter working week, according to the latest research into flexible working hours within the profession.
The study's results, which were announced to delegates at the Young Business Leader's Forum, held by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW), showed that 61% wanted a compressed working week and that 22% of all accountants said that flexible working hours were one of the main factors keeping them in their current job.
The findings highlight a major cultural shift within a competitive and high-paying profession and reflect the need for a flexible approach from employers so that long working hours do not dictate all other activities.
The study, undertaken by UMIST School of Management and Manchester Metropolitan University, and sponsored by the ICAEW, finds a modern approach to working hours is not only in the interest of the employee, but can also result in better corporate performance.
Flexible working practices are now widely viewed as a strategic response to the changing nature of accountancy. Not only are the values and experiences of recruits changing, but so too are the clients' working patterns. Communication technology means a nine-to-five approach is no longer a necessity. A rigid approach may not meet a client's needs, and flexible working hours and gaining the competitive edge is another force driving employers to review the working day.
Kathryn Britten, partner of BDO Stoy Hayward, who also chaired the research steering group of the Flexible Futures study, said: "The major barrier to effective flexible working is the fear of damaging career progression. But the top staff will always have their pick of jobs so employers need to resolve any stigma attached to flexible working if they want to become employers of choice. However, this is a two-way process. This research shows that flexible working arrangements work best when there is give and take on both sides."
For a copy of Flexible Futures: Flexible Working and work-life integration in the accountancy profession (Stage 2), please contact Jennifer Hay on 020 7920 8634.
(KMcA)
The study's results, which were announced to delegates at the Young Business Leader's Forum, held by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW), showed that 61% wanted a compressed working week and that 22% of all accountants said that flexible working hours were one of the main factors keeping them in their current job.
The findings highlight a major cultural shift within a competitive and high-paying profession and reflect the need for a flexible approach from employers so that long working hours do not dictate all other activities.
The study, undertaken by UMIST School of Management and Manchester Metropolitan University, and sponsored by the ICAEW, finds a modern approach to working hours is not only in the interest of the employee, but can also result in better corporate performance.
Flexible working practices are now widely viewed as a strategic response to the changing nature of accountancy. Not only are the values and experiences of recruits changing, but so too are the clients' working patterns. Communication technology means a nine-to-five approach is no longer a necessity. A rigid approach may not meet a client's needs, and flexible working hours and gaining the competitive edge is another force driving employers to review the working day.
Kathryn Britten, partner of BDO Stoy Hayward, who also chaired the research steering group of the Flexible Futures study, said: "The major barrier to effective flexible working is the fear of damaging career progression. But the top staff will always have their pick of jobs so employers need to resolve any stigma attached to flexible working if they want to become employers of choice. However, this is a two-way process. This research shows that flexible working arrangements work best when there is give and take on both sides."
For a copy of Flexible Futures: Flexible Working and work-life integration in the accountancy profession (Stage 2), please contact Jennifer Hay on 020 7920 8634.
(KMcA)
Related Northern Ireland Business News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
09 February 2011
Belfast College To Lose 200 Staff
Belfast Metropolitan College has confirmed it is likely to shed more than 200 jobs in restructuring plans. The college has finished a 90-day consultation period with unions about the plans - although it also admitted that talks had "broken down".
Belfast College To Lose 200 Staff
Belfast Metropolitan College has confirmed it is likely to shed more than 200 jobs in restructuring plans. The college has finished a 90-day consultation period with unions about the plans - although it also admitted that talks had "broken down".
26 July 2006
Survey reveals school leavers shunning shop work
A survey has revealed that school leavers are shunning work in retail sector in favour of their own businesses, IT and music industries. Skillsmart Retail has warned that shops face staff shortages unless urgent action is taken.
Survey reveals school leavers shunning shop work
A survey has revealed that school leavers are shunning work in retail sector in favour of their own businesses, IT and music industries. Skillsmart Retail has warned that shops face staff shortages unless urgent action is taken.
28 February 2005
Labour announces maternity changes
The government have announced plans to offer working mothers an extra three months maternity leave. The new measures, which would extend maternity leave from six to nine months, would give mothers an extra £1,400, Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt announced.
Labour announces maternity changes
The government have announced plans to offer working mothers an extra three months maternity leave. The new measures, which would extend maternity leave from six to nine months, would give mothers an extra £1,400, Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt announced.
17 September 2001
Report suggests it’s time to get flexible with working hours
A recent report from The Industrial Society has suggested that when it comes to balancing working time with private life, UK employees would like to have more choice over when they work. According to the research, employees with more choice over their working time feel less stressed, and are more able to successfully balance home and work.
Report suggests it’s time to get flexible with working hours
A recent report from The Industrial Society has suggested that when it comes to balancing working time with private life, UK employees would like to have more choice over when they work. According to the research, employees with more choice over their working time feel less stressed, and are more able to successfully balance home and work.
13 May 2014
Work And Families Bill 'A Step Closer'
The Northern Ireland Assembly has debated the Work and Families Bill, with Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry saying that implementation of the Bill has moved a step closer. The Bill, which also includes an extension of the right to request flexible working, was introduced into the Assembly by Minister Farry in April 2014.
Work And Families Bill 'A Step Closer'
The Northern Ireland Assembly has debated the Work and Families Bill, with Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry saying that implementation of the Bill has moved a step closer. The Bill, which also includes an extension of the right to request flexible working, was introduced into the Assembly by Minister Farry in April 2014.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
