A recent survey conducted by recruitment specialist Robert Half indicates that more than one in four (27%) chief financial officers (CFOs) consider lack of long-term career plans the biggest mistake young accounting and finance professionals make in their careers.

Changing jobs too frequently and not obtaining adequate educational credentials are also popular responses, each cited by 21% and 19% of respondents, respectively.

Phil Sheridan, managing director for Robert Half UK, says: “With youth unemployment still a concern for the UK economy, it is important for those entering the workforce to have a clear understanding and expectation for their career path.

“Finding a mentor and learning from those who have forged their way can help young workers identify priorities and successfully navigate the early stages of their career.”

CFOs were asked: “What is the biggest mistake, if any, young accounting and finance professionals make in their career?” The full list of responses were:

• Not considering their long-term career plans 27%

• Changing jobs too frequently 21%

• Not obtaining adequate educational/training credentials 19%

• Choosing the profession for the wrong reasons 14%

• Other 11%

• None/Don’t know 9%