Low pay a sore point with CPAs.

A recent survey, A Look at Accountants' Job Satisfaction, found many CPAs are dissatisfied with their jobs because of current compensation levels. Public practitioners were the most displeased, but CPAs in industry and not-for-profit organizations complained about inadequate wages as well.

CPAs in industry, in addition to their concerns about money, felt they were less fulfilled in their jobs than their counterparts in public practice, according to the study.

"The CPAs reported significant unfulfilled needs in all categories," said one of the study's three authors, Joyce A. Strawser, PhD, of Seton Hall University. "Compensation created the greatest dissatisfaction and was followed closely by perceived deficiencies in self-actualization (fulfillment through personal growth and development) and security."

James C. Flagg, CPA, PhD, and Sarah A. Holmes, CPA, PhD, both professors at Texas A&M University, conducted the study with Strawser. They surveyed 920 CPAs to measure how well the CPAs felt their career needs were being met.

Based on their findings, the authors predicted "the profession's difficulties in recruiting and retaining quality practitioners are likely to continue unless employers take action to increase job satisfaction."

The authors offered employers these recommendations:

* Increase levels of compensation for all CPAs.

* Encourage CPAs to be proactive in planning their careers.

* Implement a mentoring system with those who can support and advise less experienced employees.

* Encourage employees to participate in volunteer work and professional organizations to increase their sense of accomplishment.

* Do timely and detailed evaluations of employees to increase their perception of job security.

* Create a work environment in which employees feel valued.

* Reduce abusive work practices, such as excessive overtime.

* Limit unrealistic employee expectations by being honest about the nature and demands of the job.

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