Without doubt 2020 has been a very different year for businesses.
COVID-19 has changed the landscape in most sectors.
There have been plenty of challenges already.
Going forward that’s not likely to change.
Equally, one of the benefits has been that Finance professionals contributions have become evident to all.
It’s taken leadership. It’s taken courage. It’s changed decision making.
There also had to be a change of focus, mindset and approach.
The upside of all of this is that the profile of accountants and finance professionals has never been higher.
As we move forward, there’s a great opportunity for finance professionals.
The question you might have is how do you seize the opportunity?
Here’s my thoughts.
Reflect
When everything is just plodding along, it’s easy to do the same.
When there is disruption, we have to stop, reflect and get clear about why we exist.
In other words to consider what our purpose is as a function, team and team member.
Engage
Those is finance functions in organisations have customers.
They just happen to be internal customers.
What do they need from you as an individual or team?
You can take the difficult or easy approach.
The easy approach is to engage them, listen to them, understand their challenges and needs.
Focus
When you have more demands than resources you have to focus on what matters.
Rather than doing things out of habit, think about what’s having an impact and what isn’t.
Remember
This might seem like a strange one. So let me explain.
In the course of becoming professionally qualified, we learn a lot of wider business skills.
Those that you serve might not realise this.
You may even have forgotten.
Take the time to remind yourself of the range of skills, qualities and experiences you can bring to the table.
Speak Up
You have a valuable contribution to make.
Don’t let fear of getting it wrong hinder you from offering your view or perspective.
Even if your thoughts are merely a base to build on, your contribution and reputation are enhanced.
In truth the opportunities for finance professionals to seize the opportunity have never been greater. So what’s your first step?
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