Irish finance professionals calling out for training to help manage workload

- One in three Irish finance professionals are stressed in the workplace
- The amount of work is the main contributing factor
- More training is required to enable them to cope

Research released today by specialist recruitment consultancy Robert Half Finance and Accounting reveals that Irish finance professionals are stressed at work due to the amount they are taking on. However instead of asking for less work they are calling on their employers to provide training to help them manage their workload.

The 2006 Ireland Salary Survey reveals that one in three (32 per cent) finance professionals are stressed at work, with the amount of work on their plate being the main contributing factor (37 per cent). Other factors that contribute towards stress levels among finance professionals are the level of work they are being asked to do (16 per cent) and their lack of work / life balance (11 per cent).

The survey goes on to reveal that instead of asking for less work, they are calling on their employers to lay on training to make them better equipped to carry out the tasks in hand (23 per cent). This is followed by a review of their current benefits (17 per cent). Reducing the workload only appears in third place at 16 per cent.

Ken Harbourne, branch manager of Robert Half Finance and Accounting in Dublin, said:

ìFinance professionals need to be careful, as working on overdrive can be just as dangerous to their careers as simply ëgetting byí. Taking on new projects and responsibilities is a great way to expand their skills set, however too much of a good thing can lead to burnout.

ìEmployers need to help finance professionals manage their workloads by reviewing company training programmes and identifying the appropriate guidance required. Constant training will improve workersí skills, helping them cope with the growing demands of each assignment.