Changing Face of the Profession
remind them about all the different things that we do . That ’ s going to draw more people into the profession . They don ’ t understand the million other things we get into . We need to broaden the spectrum of the people we ’ re trying to help get into the profession .
MHF : How are you dealing with engagement ? As things grow and constantly change , how do you help people feel like they ’ re part of it ?
TD : I love CLA ’ s coaching program . Each team member can pick the coach they want . I have the pleasure of coaching four ladies . We meet throughout the year and I encourage them to express their thoughts about what ’ s going on with them and their departments . This allows coaches to be an advocate when it comes to review meetings to help get the person into different experiences . We are a large firm and this helps solidify connections . Having that advocate helps us navigate the process . I ’ ve really enjoyed coaching and helping team members with their careers .
When we look at the Coolest Profession Around , we want a positive perspective that really defines the true nature of what CPAs do .
AM : I have been able to see how some firms and accounting clubs recruit . They would set up a table and sit in one position for people to approach them . I suggested we expand across campus so others could attend . Considering we ’ re the ones interested in them , however , we don ’ t know whether they ’ re interested in us . They need to reach out as well .
One place to start might be a transition executive at a local community college who assists people to transition to four-year universities . That might be a great place to start an engagement process and develop a relationship with those people . It could be a point where CalCPA could come up with a plan for that and ask firms to come in and do it with them .
MHF : Where does Coolest Profession Around belong ? It needs a home , but where ?
JM : It ’ s up to each of us to get involved . It ’ s up to the leadership to promote involvement and to give opportunities to younger firm members to get involved , be engaged and to network . It ’ s about involvement and it doesn ’ t matter where it starts as long as it starts . As leaders , we need to support this to ensure that it continues to happen .
We can ’ t just push the ball forward and hope it goes somewhere . This profession is too big for one organization to take responsibility for it , but we each can contribute to the movement that Ty talked about .
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