Thursday, January 24, 2008

Entrepreneurs Want Solutions, not Problems

Accountants are trained to prepare accurate financial statements and information. They are taught to identify problems, risks and errors in financial information. As they advance in their careers they continue to tackle larger and larger problems. At some point in their careers they need to change their approach if they are going to become a contributing member of management and possible a CFO.

One of the differences between an accountant and CFO is that an accountant will identify the problem,but a CFO will provide a solution. Entrepreneurs solve problems all day long. They are looking for team members that will ease their burden and provide solutions to problems.

So the next time you identify a problem, go one step further and identify a solution. This mind step will go far in advancing your career!

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Monday, September 10, 2007

What an Entrepreneur wants from a CFO/Controller!

Most accountants are trained at identifying problems. In fact, as a profession they excel at identifying problems and minimizing ristks. Two excellent expamples of this skill is the audit and tax compliance areas of public accounting.

Entrepreneurs are looking for something more from their CFO/Controllers. They take risks and solve problems everyday. They often get tired of carrying all of the company's problems on their shoulders. They want team members to help them navigate the challenges of the day!

So the next time you identify a problem in the company, develop a solution at the same time! Over time the entrepreneur will rely on you more and more to shoulder the responsibility of managing the company.

Since we don't have all of the answers, use outside resources for problem solving. WikiCFO is an excellent repository for CFO/Controllers of entrepreneurial companies. Use this tool to bring the solution not just the problem!

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