It’s really about change management.
In today’s uncertain market, accounting firms must be especially agile and adaptable to survive. They must be real “learning organizations.” But what are the characteristics of an agile, adaptable, quick-learning CPA firm? And how do you get that way?
We’ve been asking experts throughout the profession, and here’s one answer.
Bruce Clark
New Clients Inc.
1. I think the first important aspect of building a “learning organization” is accepting the fact that the only constant in life is change. Yet just about everyone resists this to some extent. We’re all guilty of doing this at some point in our careers. The key is to realize change is inevitable. As Lee Iacocca the former Chairman of Chrysler Corporation back in the 80’s said, “lead, follow or get out of the way “
2. The next step I believe is to look at what are the more successful firms doing. This can be a pretty good indicator of where the profession is heading and what’s working or not. This kind of change or forward thinking has to start at the top. If the owner or partners are still stuck in “last year’s” mindset it’s unlikely the other team members will risk advancing any new idea or processes. People need to be allowed to fail. If team members fear mistakes will be punishable by death no one is going to advance what at the time appear to be risky or different ideas. People have to be allowed to make mistakes. As the saying goes the only person not making mistakes is one who’s not doing anything.
3. And lastly you want to reward and acknowledge the successes. Everyone one likes a pat on the back as my office administer Marge DiCamillo just acknowledged to me recently. I had forwarded her an email in which a vendor was praising her efforts on a recent project. People need shine time and giving it to them and sharing it with others in the firm encourages an atmosphere of a learning progressive successful organization.
Bruce Clark is the founder and CEO of New Clients Inc., which provides marketing training for accountants. He is currently writing a book about personal development, marketing and practice management for accountants.
