Analysis of the recruiting practices of small accounting firms in the state of Oklahoma

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: This study performed a descriptive analysis of recruiting practices of the small accounting firms in Oklahoma. The study then attempted to disclose if the systematic use of certain recruiting practices improved the recruiting effectiveness of a firm (the ability of a firm to locate and hire qualified personnel). Recruiting effectiveness was measured through the use, of the yield ratios of hires/offers, offers/interviews, and positions filled/positions open. Data was collected through questionnaires mailed to public accounting firms operating in Oklahoma. Analysis was performed on the data using the computerized Statistical Analysis System (SAS).

Findings and Conclusions: The firms surveyed had an average of six professional staff people employed. The average number of positions open was three. Systematic recruiting practices were found to exist in the types and degree of sources used in interviewing prospective employees, and were related to the yield ratios representing a firm's recruiting effectiveness.