Employee Satisfaction, Culture, and Mental Health; A Study of Workplace Perceptions in Accounting Firms

Abstract

This study examines how employees’ experiences differ across global, regional, and small-scale public accounting firms, focusing on work-life balance, compensation, workplace culture, stress, and overall job satisfaction. Using survey responses from 50 accounting professionals, 39 of which were classified into firm-size categories, this research compares both quantitative and qualitative perceptions to determine whether common assumptions about firm size hold true. The results show that employees at small-scale firms most frequently reported advantages such as flexibility, work-life balance, and closer client relationships, while respondents from global firms highlighted higher compensation and broader professional opportunities. Regional firm employees often described balanced experiences with strong learning and career development. Salary differences across firm sizes followed expected patterns, though the variation was modest due to wide differences in respondent positions, ranging from associates to partners. Qualitative comments reinforced these trends: global firm employees commonly mentioned heavy workloads, while small-scale employees emphasized family-oriented culture and reduced hours. Overall, while firm size influences workplace perceptions, the findings also suggest that individual teams, roles, and personal experiences significantly shape how employees view their jobs. This research provides valuable insight for accounting students, current professionals, and employers by illustrating the trade-offs associated with different firm sizes and offering a clearer understanding of workplace expectations within the accounting profession.