TfP 003. Getting Ready for 'Busy Season'

Erin Hartman from the AICPA & CIMA PCPS section introduces a special compilation of conversations on the evolution of accounting firms and the modernization of accounting practices through the "Transforming Your Business Model" initiative. It contains valuable insights and motivation for accounting professionals looking to innovate and create sustainable business models while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In these condensed exerpts from previous podcasts, the conversation features insights from Chet Buchman, managing partner of Swindell, Jansen Hawk and Loyd, and Sandy Johns, a small firm owner based in Atlanta. Chet shares his firm's journey towards reducing work hours to 45 hours per week, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between reducing hours, increasing profitability, and having more fun at work. Sandy discusses her firm's transition to a fully remote team and their focus on subscription-based client accounting services, sharing her experience of eliminating one-off tax returns to reduce stress and improve work-life balance.

Both practitioners highlight the importance of understanding what you want for yourself and your firm, committing to a common vision, and being willing to make changes and learn from mistakes. They also stress the value of networking and seeking support from peers and professional groups. 

For the full episodes from both Chet Buchman and Sandy Johns and other articles and resources regarding right-sizing and hours reduction, check out the following resources:

• PCPS Right-Sizing Your Client Base Toolkit,
• A Revolution in 'right-sizing' a client base,  
• Why and how: right-sizing client base and revenue modeling,  
• Business model transformation - advisory and hours,  
• Is right-sizing the right move for your firm?, and
• Right-sizing your firm: A commitment to clients and staff.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

 This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com