Perspectives of “Fortune500” Executives on the Competency Requirements for Accounting Graduates

Abstract “Fortune 500” executives were surveyed in fall 1997 to determine their perceptions of the competencies necessary for entry-level accounting graduates. Questionnaires were mailed to 166 companies through selection of every third company from the alphabetical listing. A total of 71 responses was received, for a response rate of 42.8%. Questions focused on the relative importance of skills currently (1997), 5 years earlier, and projecting 5 years into the future. The importance of accounting knowledge for entry-level accounting graduates was perceived to decrease over time, whereas the importance of computer skills, communication skills, and group skills would increase.