Accounting firm leaders spend considerable time thinking about employee retention, career development and what motivates professionals to stay with their firms. But how do responsibilities and significant events outside work factor into those decisions?
A national research study is examining how personal circumstances affect careers in accounting, finance and related professions, including their influence on workload, advancement opportunities and decisions to stay in or leave the profession.
The study, led by Dr. Stephani Mason of DePaul University and Dr. Claire Costin of the University of Portland, is being conducted in partnership with the Center for Accounting Transformation and the Illinois CPA Society.
Researchers are also examining how employers respond when employees experience changing responsibilities or significant personal events.
For accounting firm leaders, the research addresses questions that are relevant to workforce management: How do outside responsibilities intersect with professional advancement? What workplace responses do employees experience? And how might these circumstances influence long-term career decisions?
Researchers Want to Hear From a Broad Range of Professionals
The survey is open to anyone who currently works or has previously worked in accounting, finance or a related profession.
Importantly, participation is not limited to individuals with caregiving responsibilities or those who have experienced major personal challenges. Researchers also want to hear from professionals who have not had these experiences or whose careers have not been affected by them.
Participate in the Research
The anonymous survey takes approximately 25–35 minutes and is open through December 18, 2026.
No identifying information is collected. Participation is voluntary, and questions adapt to each respondent’s circumstances. Participants may skip any question or stop at any time. Some questions cover sensitive topics, including bereavement, illness and personal difficulty.
Take the National Survey
Questions about the study can be directed to [email protected].
