Survey: Most Executives Would Not Opt for Self-Employment, but Many Intrigued by the Prospect

    TORONTO, Sept. 24 /CNW/ - Most executives would decline the opportunity
to be their own boss, according to a new survey. Fifty-nine per cent of
respondents said they feel the average executive would not choose to be
self-employed if he or she had the necessary startup capital, whereas
thirty-three per cent disagreed.
    The survey was developed by Robert Half Management Resources, the world's
premier provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a
project and interim basis. The poll includes interviews with 100 senior
Canadian executives - including those from human resources, finance and
marketing departments.

    Senior executives were asked, "If the average executive could be
self-employed and had the necessary startup capital, do you feel he or she
would make the move?" Their responses:

    
        Yes..............................................   33%
        No...............................................   59%
        Don't know/no answer.............................    8%
                                                          ------
                                                           100%
    

    "Some executives may see more opportunity - and security - in their
corporate roles than in venturing out on their own," said Paul McDonald,
executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. "The failure of a
sizable number of startups earlier in the decade left many senior managers
wary of the risks associated with self-employment."
    However, McDonald pointed out that for professionals with an independent
spirit, "hanging out a shingle" has its benefits. "The challenge and
flexibility of entrepreneurship can outweigh the uncertainty, but it takes
discipline and a commitment to being both a visionary and a pragmatist." He
noted that consulting can be a good alternative for those who seek the
advantages of self-employment without the administrative burden of owning a
small business.

    Robert Half Management Resources has more than 140 offices throughout
North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, and offers online job
search services at www.roberthalfmr.com.

    EDITOR'S NOTE: To schedule an interview for local commentary in Montreal,
    Toronto, Calgary or Vancouver please contact Jason Chapman at
    416-350-5201, extension 62070.

For further information:

For further information: Robert Half Management Resources, Jason
Chapman, (416) 350-5201 extension 62070, jason.chapman@rhi.com