Switching Off?Survey reveals the high number of accountants who never truly leave the office when on holiday.
Over 85% of accountants will check their e-mails and voicemails whilst on holiday. This is the figure found in a survey of qualified financial professionals undertaken by accountancy recruitment specialists Andrew Farr Associates.
The survey shows that fewer than 15% actually switch off from their jobs when they are on holiday.
Andy Farr Managing director of Andrew Farr Associates comments that “the fact 21% sometimes checks their e-mails is not of huge concern so long as the employer does not expect it and if there is an environment of ‘give and take’ between employer and employee.” Examples here include checking that new members of staff are settling in well, confirming one specific piece of information or ensuring nothing significant has happened on a vital project. “Often a little bit of contact with the office actually helps the accountant to relax. They know that things are running smoothly and therefore can enjoy their holiday” explains Farr
“Of greater concern” concludes Farr “is that 64% of accountants regularly check e-mails and voicemails - in effect, properly working whilst on holiday.” Employers who expect their employees to do this could well be breaking the law and end up with large fines. It is also not good for both physical and mental health of the employee who never really gets to switch off from work.
Farr explains that “our previous survey showed how accountants were working significant overtime and this survey now adds to that.” Accountants by nature are very organised and methodical, and so it is unlikely that they will not leave things in order and therefore the need to work over annual leave should not be essential. Departments are also fairly well staffed and therefore it also unlikely that they need to check in with the office.
What could well be underlying this is that accountants are taking advantage of PDAs/ mobiles, blackberry’s etc. Being controlling in nature often means that accessing the office becomes addictive. This is also worse when it is underpinned by fear over job security. Employers must take the lead in order to ensure employee wellbeing and ultimate preservation of the important finance function.
Above all, concludes Farr “the picture is of an industry of professionals committed to their employers, but who do need to learn to relax a little in order to be at their peak”
Notes to Editor:
For further information contact Press Relations on 08450 551177
or press@andrewfarr.com www.andrewfarr.com
Select Accountancy is a specialist clerical accountancy and public sector finance recruiter.
The Randstad Group is an international supplier of services to businesses and institutions. The company is active in Europe, North and South America, Australia, Asia and Africa. The Randstad Group is the second largest temporary and contract staffing organization in the world. It is active in 53 countries. In 2007, Randstad and Vedior together generated revenue of approximately € 15.8 billion. Worldwide we have over 5,300 branches. Randstad is listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange.