Reasons for a Good and Powerful Written Language

From a list of 22 critical skills, accounting practitioners ranked written communication as the most important skill for professors to develop in students. Albrecht and Sack, "Accounting Education: Charting the Course through a Perilous Future" (August 2000).

A survey of Fortune 500 senior tax executives found that writing skills are among the most important attributes in the hiring process. Paice and Lyons, "Addressing the People Puzzle" Financial Executive (September 2001).

Studies have shown that as many as one third of the accounting firms surveyed are dissatisfied with the communication skills of entry-level accountants. One study highlighted poor writing skills as one of the leading reasons entry-level accountants lose their jobs. Kim, "Accountants as Communicators" Trusted Professional (December 1998).

Out of 19 characteristics, CPA firm recruiters identified writing skills as the 5th most important characteristic used to prescreen accounting applicants for on-campus or first interviews. Writing skills ranked higher than technical skills, Beta Alpha Psi membership, work experience, and reputation of the college or university. Moncada and Sanders, "Perceptions in the Recruiting Process" CPA Journal (January 1999).

Excellent writing skills clearly distinguish high performers in the tax consulting field from those who merely interpret and apply tax law to a client situation. The ability to effectively communicate is vital to the success of any tax professional. Sherrie Winokur, Tax Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers.