Latest Articles
How accountants are using ChatGPT and why you should have a policy on its use
When I wrote about Chat GPT in December 2022 I described it as an indicator of the massive impact artificial intelligence is going to have a on how knowledge workers and others work. The events of the past three months have only reinforced that view. How accounting...
Task management done well – how can Microsoft tools (you are probably already paying for) help?
One of the workshops I run both inside firms and as a foundation module for my Manager Development Program, is Managing yourself and your priorities. (There is also an online self paced option in my online Learning Centre here.) It’s a fabulous workshop which helps...
Thoughts on attracting and retaining the right people for your firm – part 4 of 4
In my first article on this topic I shared my views on: Who the right people are Why getting them is so important Why attraction and retention matter How we got to this current position which is challenging for employers In my second article I shared a list of the key...
Setting goals for 2023
Many of you are aware I’m a big fan of goal setting. In July 2021 I wrote an article - Is goal setting useful? Drawing on the research I did with some colleagues in our Master of Business Coaching degree, I concluded that goal setting is very useful when done well....
Book Review – The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
It’s 10 years since this book by New York Times journalist Charles Duhigg was published. At its core it’s a book about the science of habits and how we can apply this understanding to help us establish good habits or change habits that are not serving us well. The...
What are you grateful for?
Connecting with gratitude helps us be more positive and motivated. It’s been a tough year, So I’m suggesting you take time to reflect on what you are grateful for. For me I am grateful for: Getting to do what I love – helping owners and managers run better accounting...
Common themes in accounting firms in 2022
As an accounting firm coach, mentor and consultant I get to see inside lots of accounting firms and talk to many accounting firm owners and managers. In no particular order, here are some of the common themes I saw in 2022: Challenges with attracting and retaining...
Why accountants should pay attention to ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an indicator of the massive impact artificial intelligence is going to have a on how knowledge workers and others work. In this article I explain what it is and why I believe we all need to pay attention. It’s a bit longer than usual but please go the...
Client verification obligations (know your client)
In both individual coaching sessions and at a recent meeting of one of the groups of firms I facilitate, this topic came up and there was some uncertainty about what is expected of accountants. I struggled to find information on this that was practical for accountants...
Two great ideas for accountants from Appliances Online
As an accounting firm coach, consultant and mentor, I’ve often said I look at things through the eyes of an accounting firm owner or manager and find ideas for running a better accounting firm. Recently my experience in purchasing from Appliances Online has...