Although CBIZ & MHM have offices across the country, sources say their company has "a much better work/life balance than the Big Four." It's "the best of two worlds," says a manager. "We have the resources of a nationallevel firm with the environment and values of a midsized firm." That means employees have the "camaraderie" of a local practice, while being tied in to a much larger operation. Open communication policies are cheered. "We are encouraged to discuss our concerns and opinions, and our input is often solicited," one staffer says. "All of our managers and directors are accessible to the staff as needed for guidance at any time," agrees another.

Hard work is valued at CBIZ & MHM, but sources say they enjoy a significant degree of independence. "You have a job that you are expected to do, and a time frame in which to do it, but how you go about it is almost entirely up to you," says an associate. The "young and friendly" staff knows how to relax, too. "We like having fun, and play a few practical jokes," one accountant admits. CBIZ & MHM employees also spend time together at numerous "social events and firm outings."