Socializing Remote Newcomers in Public Accounting: Challenges and Best Practices from the Perspective of Experienced Big 4 Professionals
研究调查了122位四大资深专业人士，探讨远程工作对公共会计新员工社会化的影响，发现远程工作虽有助于学习技术技能，但削弱了员工对组织期望的理解、与同事客户的联系及组织承诺，并提出了最佳实践建议。
SYNOPSIS Accounting firms increasingly provide remote or hybrid work options to attract qualified professionals, but they must also effectively socialize new employees to develop and retain them. This study explores the effect of remote work on newcomer socialization. Rather than surveying remote newcomers who have less understanding of what “successful” socialization means, we ask 122 experienced Big 4 professionals about the impact of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic on socialization. Respondents report that every aspect of socialization is impacted by remote work. Although participants perceive that newcomers are able to learn technical skills (e.g., how to complete work tasks) remotely, they are less able to learn about firm expectations (e.g., client interactions). Participants believe remote newcomers are less able to form bonds with coworkers and clients and are less committed to their firm. Best practices for remote socialization are discussed (e.g., virtual audit rooms) to assist accounting firms.