Expectations of the Supervisor
Participants develop an understanding of the criteria for the performance of supervisory personnel in CPA firms and learn why supervisors must perform significantly different functions than less experienced staff. Participants' attitudes about their changing role in the firm are discussed, leading to an analysis of the supervisory function.
Managing Self and Priorities
Participants are introduced to techniques designed to help them balance their life and work. Self-tests are used so that participants can determine how they currently use their time, delegation ability and work/life balance. Exercises and cases illustrate and provide a hands-on application for such activities as goal setting, prioritizing, organizing the workspace, limiting interruptions, learning to delegate, and utilizing assistants' time efficiently.
Improving Communication Skills
Cases and exercises are used to help participants learn the different ways supervisors communicate and how to be more effective communicators. For example, two-way communication, developing good listening habits, non-verbal communication, and acting as role models are all explored.
Human Motivation
Understand your own, as well as other people's needs, as a way to accomplish your goals and those of the firm. Learn about and obtain practice in applying basic motivational techniques. Significant time is spent discussing motivating younger staff and the supervisor's role in helping their firms retain higher-quality staff. Self-tests are included so participants can identify managerial styles and potential for change. Cases relate skills to practical situations, including supervising assistants, dealing with partners, and resolving conflicts.
Supervising, Evaluating and Coaching Staff
Focus on the supervisory skills needed for proper delegation to assistants, effective on-the-job training, meaningful performance appraisals, and adequate staff coaching. Address the reasons for the many differences in assistants and how to deal effectively with staff with different needs. Skills are practiced during in-class exercises using case studies, and role plays that emphasize public accountants' difficulties in supervising assistants.
Helping Your Organization Grow
Review three ways organizations grow: keeping existing clients satisfied, expanding services to existing clients, and getting referrals from clients and contacts. Cases and discussions show participants ways to help their company or firm grow. Participants are encouraged to learn how to market these services to existing and prospective clients effectively.
