When seeking to fill an accounting position, our clients have a fairly set and predictable series of criteria for candidates - and with good reason. Unlike other jobs in the professional services industries, accountants follow strictly defined procedures and processes. However, I have noticed an increase in the number of employers who are looking for their accounting candidates of all levels to not only be skilled with numbers, but also communications. The one communication skill that is really growing in popularity is active listening.

After 30 years as a recruiter, I have pretty much seen every approach to resume writing out there. And, it is no surprise. Whether you are a recent college graduate seeking an accounting position or an experienced IT professional, writing a quality resume is difficult and time consuming. .

National Staffing Employee Week, Sept. 16–22, was established by the American Staffing Association to pay tribute to the millions of Americans who are employed by staffing firms every business day. SNI Companies is proud to provide professional staffing to our clients, and we thank our temporary and contract employees for the vital contributions they make each and every day.

“SNI Companies is known for providing top-tier talent in the staffing industry. National Staffing Week is well deserved recognition for our contractors and employees,” stated Ron Smith, CEO, SNI Companies.

According to the American Staffing Association, businesses use staffing companies for quality talent in virtually all occupational sectors, from call center service representatives to skilled tradesmen to attorneys. ASA also reports that 79% of temporary and contract employees work full-time (35 hours or more per week), virtually the same as the general work force.

Each time I meet with a client, or talk to a highly qualified technology candidate, I get the same impression: technology unemployment is a bit of an oxymoron. And, it seems that the Bureau of Labor Statics agrees: At the end of 2012, the U.S. unemployment rate was 8.7 percent, more than twice the 4.1 percent unemployment rate among information technology professionals. And, things have only gotten better – or worse – depending on where you sit. Currently, the national unemployment rate is around 7.8 percent, but is estimated to be about 3.2 percent for technology professionals.

After more than 15 years in accounting and financial staffing, I know firsthand that finding a candidate that meets the skills required by a client is only half of the battle. Candidates and employers have to interact during the interview process and determine if they can form a productive and successful relationship.