Perspectives of “Fortune 500” 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.