On this episode, I chatted with the Radical CPA, Jody Padar, about her journey building a career and firm. Throughout the interview, she details how she embraced every change along the way to make the radical shifts she needed to thrive, providing useful advice to others on how to do the same throughout.
The world is constantly changing, as is business and accounting. Jody talks us through the important questions about changing technologies in the workplace; answering questions as she speaks: Should we feel threatened by AI and technology transformation? Can technology and bots be our ally and help us achieve more? How do we adapt and thrive?
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. TECHNOLOGY CAN BE OUR FRIEND AND ALLY, SHAPING ACCOUNTING ROLES TOWARDS CONSULTING AND ANALYTICS
Rather than fear the growing use of AI in the accounting industry, Jodi advocates for a welcoming of advanced technologies; using technology better allows accountants to maximize their time focusing on the human relations and critical thinking aspects of effective accounting that can’t be automated. The technology will strongly connect the accounting and data analytics fields, and help accountants get home on time.
2. LIFELONG LEARNING IS A KEY TO EMBRACING CHANGE
As technologies change, the learning curve may seem steep. Jody discusses the benefits of adopting the mindset of a lifelong learner; a constant student of technology and the world. Earnestly learning about changing technologies through interest and wonder can be much more effective than consistently asking for assistance with running a program. Learning to adapt and grow with technology through a positive mindset can be extremely effective.
3. MANAGEMENT MUST CHANGE ALONG WITH TECHNOLOGY
Engaging and effective leadership and management can build teams of dedicated accountants regardless of surrounding technology. Management focus should be on leading, not micromanaging or ordering. Working with colleagues and supervisors on defining roles and taking leadership opportunities can boost morale throughout the team. Jody advises professionals to be clear with what’s important to them, and not to be afraid to ask for what they want in these circumstances.
🎧 To learn more about these ideas, dive deeper into the relationship between technology and accounting, or find yourself a mentor in Cece, head to the Dear Accountant Podcast here.
🎙 “Dear Accountant” podcast is a uniquely insightful and entertaining podcast for aspiring young business professionals. Each episode is packed with actionable advice to help young finance professionals get ready for whatever challenge they may face next. Aside from all of the many cool things in accounting (technical topics and trends), we bring in industry experts and influential leaders to share their journey, insights and perspectives. We will also cover topics that were not taught in school - life essential skills such as personal finance, emotional intelligence, mentorship, networking, body language and human behaviors, and so much more!
💬 About our guest, Jody Padar: Jody Padar, known as the radical CPA, began her “radical journey” 13 years ago. Jody was at an old-school firm with seven partners. As a young staff member, Jody was working an insane number of hours. When she became a mother, Jody knew the culture of the firm was just not right for her. That’s when she decided to join her dad’s firm. One of the first things he said to her was, “this is my practice, and you’ll need to go find your own customers.” And that was the best advice he ever gave Jody. Today, Jody Padar is vice president of strategy at Botkeeper, Inc., an accounting software firm based in the Chicago area. As one of the profession’s visionary thought leaders, Jody has redefined the business model of an accounting practice.
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