The Importance Of An Efficient Accountancy Hiring Process

Within the last 12 months the Irish market has seen a huge surge in the demand for accountants across a variety of sectors within Financial Services and Industry. An increase in the number of accounting and finance roles means it is a candidate market and companies must find methods to speed up hiring processes in order to prevent the loss of top talent.

To help speed up the recruitment process we suggest taking the following steps:

Produce a Detailed Job Spec

Having a clear and descriptive job specification will support the hiring manager in attracting top talent. Not only will this entice relevant candidates it also saves time further on in the hiring process when identifying how a candidate can actively contribute to the organisation. When identifying what the skills required for a specific role are it is important to acknowledge what the individuals objectives are going to be within the company and ultimately what you want them to achieve. Organisations need to reflect on the type of person that will fit into the team.

Use a Reliable and Trustworthy Specialist Recruiter

This may appear to be an obvious statement, however choosing a recruiter who understands the Irish market and who can identify the best candidates will speed up the hiring process considerably. An effective recruiter will understand a finance job spec, meet candidates face to face and scrutinise CVs to ensure that a candidate has the relevant skills and experience you require. In some cases specialised recruiters will also conduct competency tests to ensure the best candidates are being brought to interview.

Set Interview Dates In Advance

For every organisation it is paramount that they plan hiring processes in advance. If an interview process includes 2-3 rounds and involves multiple individuals in the business then it is important to make sure everyone is freely available. Companies must be flexible to meet candidates outside of work hours to ensure they don’t lose candidates to competitors. I would strongly suggest that companies assign a few days or afternoons for interviews, first and second stage if necessary. Once there is a clear plan in place, it will allow for a speedier hiring process.

Use Technology

With more and more accountants returning to Ireland from international markets it is important for companies to attract talent before they return home. Companies can now utilise Google Hangouts to pre-interview candidates as well as using Skype and other video conferencing software as this helps to cut down on any unnecessary travel.

Make an Immediate Offer

If an organisation is interested in a specific individual after the final interview then I suggest offering the role immediately after. The days of waiting a week to offer a candidate a position are long over. If a company decides to wait a day or two then expect to lose out to a competitor.

If you are finding is difficult to fill an accountancy position or would like more information on the employment or recruitment market in Ireland at the moment please contact me on 01-4744626 or email me on gquinn@sigmar.ie