CFOs polled said it takes them an average of four weeks to fill a staff-level accounting position and six weeks to bring a new manager on board.
 
"Hiring managers are often caught in a catch-22: short-staffed but unable to dedicate the necessary time to the recruiting process because of the additional work they are assuming," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., which commissioned the survey. "This is compounded by the pressure to avoid hiring mistakes, which can be particularly costly in accounting and finance departments, where accuracy and continuity of processes are critical."

Hiring wisely is essential, but taking too long to make a decision has its own set of pitfalls. "Overburdening the existing workforce can lead to further turnover," Messmer said.

Messmer advises companies to view recruitment as an ongoing process, whether or not the organization is actively looking to add staff. "By maintaining a broad personal and professional network, keeping in regular contact with recruiters and bringing in temporary professionals to handle rising workloads, hiring managers continuously have access to potential new employees."