Reimbursement can give companies an edge in recruiting, retaining staff
Forty-two per cent of employers do not reimburse staff for the continuing education units required to maintain their professional certifications, according to a recent survey by Robert Half Finance and Accounting. However, about the same amount — 41 per cent — provide fill reimbursement. And 14 per cent provide partial reimbursement, found the survey of 270 Canadian CFOs.
"Organizations that support their employees' continuing education demonstrate they are dedicated to helping staff members in their career development, which could give companies an edge in recruiting and retaining skilled staff," said Kathryn Bolt, president of Robert Half Canada. "Although individuals rarely accept a job or stay with an employer solely based on its education benefits, it will become more important for firms to offer such perks as the market strengthens."
Beyond retention and recruiting, supporting ongoing learning can help businesses develop a more skilled workforce.
"Not only does continuing education enhance a professional's expertise and skill set in their field, but it allows them to stay on top of current industry trends and present new solutions to business challenges within their organizations," said Bolt.
