There is a real perception problem for the profession, and accountants need to start demonstrating their value to wider society, according to the findings of the ‘Society First’ report from ICAS.
The report found half of the general public (exactly 50%) say they do not clearly understand what the accountancy profession does. Some 55% believe accountants mainly “cater to the wealthy”.
Even accountants themselves highlighted the fact that the profession is seen as too complex (41%) as a key challenge.
The report found overall trust in the profession sits at 66%. However, this drops to 58% among those less familiar with accountants’ work.
James Baird CA (pictured), Chair of ICAS’ Shaping the Profession steering group said: “Our research shows that public perception of the profession is generally positive, particularly around trust, but there is limited understanding about what accountants do, and outdated stereotypes persist.”
- The findings, published in a ‘Society First’ report launched as the first output of ICAS’ ambitious Shaping the Profession programme.
