Career self-perceptions on Maltese accountants with an auditing practising certificate

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to assess the perceptions held by Maltese accountants with an auditing practising certificate (MAAPC) on their career to date, namely adaptability, career progression, and remuneration. Design: The research instrument is structured questionnaires which were forwarded, both manually and electronically, to MAAPC. Findings: The findings indicate that a substantial divergence arises between a required holistic type of formal educational training and the existing imbalance between technical knowledge and professional competencies. The three most preferred training forms in post-qualification training are short-term courses, on-the-job training, and interactive workshops. Both formal and ongoing training are essential, although there is a slightly stronger inclination towards the former. MAAPC experience ease of career progression and also have a positive outlook on this regard. Entry into the accountancy profession is principally based on successful qualification, whilst an array of skills and elements, particularly responsibility and productivity, are necessary to obtain promotion. The monthly gross income is affected by the sector in which the accountant works. Bonuses, internal training courses, and payments of professional annual subscriptions are amongst the most common form of preferred benefits as well as those actually received. Conclusion: A holistic preparation during formal training and work experience before qualification ensure smooth adaptability and facilitate prospects of career progression. The accountancy career is portrayed by MAAPC as a moderate financially rewarding one with modest positive future salary expectations. Value: Studying accountants' career self-perceptions will help gauge levels of career satisfaction. It is crucial to transmit positive perceptions of the accountancy career as it affects the future influx of aspiring accountants. The accountancy profession needs to be nurtured in the best way possible since it is not only in the interest of the accountant himself or that of one's individual country, but the effects are ultimately more widespread, affecting the international spectrum.