There was high demand for accountants as firms increased oversight of the books, making it hard for the startup Ottawa firm to recruit staff, recalls McLarty co-founder Lynn Honsberger.
That's when she and Doug McLarty hit upon the idea of offering an environment that appeals to a demographic group that often finds it challenging to work full-time: women with young children.
These employees, she says, get dispensation to work part-time, seasonally, contractually or even hourly - and are encouraged to take time off to attend school plays, teacher meetings and children's playoff games.
"This was a way to encourage more women who were qualified to re-enter the workforce, and that's one of the reasons we did it," Ms. Honsberger says. "It was rather successful in a tight market."
Nearly a decade later, she adds, these employees are "extremely loyal" to the company, which just earned its first Employees' Choice Award.
McLarty promotes a work-life balance for its employees. There are reduced hours in the summertime. Employees have the option to work flexible hours to get Fridays off.
There's even a combination pool/ping-pong table set up in a staff room, where workers sometimes stay late just to perfect their technique ahead of a tournament.
In November, the firm posted a 20-per-cent increase in revenues. It hired five people last year, which is a large proportion for a 40-person company.
In 2012, part of McLarty's strategic plan will focus on transitional planning, as many of the businesses it serves are baby boomers nearing retirement.
Employees are actively involved in this planning, translating to greater business for the Ottawa firm, says Mr. McLarty.
"I think the employees enjoy working here. We do talk about how we're trying to be different in the marketplace," he says.
"We talk to them on a regular basis and we make sure they understand that they have an important role in delivering on (our) promises."
Founded: 2003
Employees: 40
ECAs: 1
Clients: Mainly family-owned businesses, ranging from car dealers to doctors to real estate companies.
