Preparing Staff Accountants for the Changing Business World-Importance of Skills

Abstract This study incorporates recent concerns voiced towards skills and abilities of staff accountants. These concerns reside in the business community as well as the academic community. The study uses conjoint analysis to (1) assess the relative importance of skills relevant to staff accountants in contemporary business climate, and (2) to estimate the utility function (utility levels) for varying degrees of proficiencies on these skills. The survey is based on responses from middle and senior managers (partners) in accounting firms. The results reveal that (1) interpersonal/communication and analytical/problem solving skills are most important, followed by knowledge of accounting, and (2) the utility function is steeper for higher skill levels.