Trainee accountants' perceptions of factors that promote employee engagement in a South African audit firm

Abstract

Trainee accountants’ work experience is largely affected by the nature of the work environment as well as the poor economic climate South Africa is facing (van der Westhuizen, 2014). Given the concern around the lack of employee engagement globally (especially amongst millennials) management is faced with the problem of how to adapt their strategies and policies so as to enhance engagement amongst trainee accountants. This is particularly relevant given that millennials have different needs to those of other generations (Gallup, 2016). Research was performed to identify the fundamental factors that trainee accountants perceive would promote employee engagement in a South African audit firm. The researcher made use of a qualitative research strategy, where a single case study was used. Data was collected using primary sources (Kumar, 2014), which consisted of a sample of fifteen trainee accountants. The methodological approach that was adopted in this research design was the use of semi-structured interviews. These were analysed using themed content analysis. Trainee accountants perceive that rewards and recognition, having a positive workplace climate, supportive co-workers, having a purpose and continued personal development or opportunities for development are the significant factors that would enhance engagement amongst trainee accountants within a South African audit firm. Based on the conclusions drawn, it is recommended that human resource management of the accounting firm adapt their policies, procedures and initiatives using the significant factors identified by trainee accountants to enhance employee engagement amongst trainee accountants and to reduce employee turnover.