One of the biggest and most common challenges facing the accounting industry is talent. For many years, leaders have had a fixed mindset about how to run an accounting firm. Traditionally, leaders expect staff to “sit in the chair” and get the job done — and that approach has worked for accounting firms to achieve their goals so far.
But what about the client experience? How does sitting still help you fully understand what your client needs to move forward?
It’s not about how long you sat down to do it and put the hours in, but rather about what you did to provide a great client experience. If leaders could focus more on client service — why we do it, the value we deliver to the client, and what the client wants and needs — they can achieve continued success and prepare for what’s next. Ultimately, the value clients want from us is applying our years of experience and proficiency to certain situations. And it is where we should strive to be in the near future.
How can joining an alliance help firms navigate this challenge?
Joining a CPA alliance can help firms transition from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. An alliance is a group of like-minded people trying to do the same thing. Change is not a linear progression, but when you are surrounded by peers who are doing the same thing and trying to make the same changes you are, you feel more equipped to tackle potential hurdles because you’re not facing them alone. You can share failures and success stories and learn from each other.
CPA alliances also offer access to peer group meetings and in-person events where members develop meaningful relationships and share successes. Sometimes, it’s difficult to ask for help because as leaders we’re supposed to have the answers; but the meaningful relationships that alliance members have with one another can drive them to take more risks that can position their firms for growth.
The bottom line
A CPA alliance offers a strategic advantage, providing firms like yours with access to a network of experienced professionals, shared resources, and best practices. It empowers leaders to not only survive but thrive in the face of industry challenges, positioning their firms for sustained success and growth in the dynamic world of accounting. And this is the type of place where future talent wants to live. The place that embraces change, and goes through it with others facing the same challenges.
Are you or a colleague interested in joining Aprio Firm Alliance? Contact me at mike.max@aprio.com to discuss challenges and solutions for operational and practice management issues in the industry.