In 2016, perceptive business owners want more from their financials. They want them to be a critical source of information to help run their business. They expect that their accountant will be able to look beyond the numbers to say ‘what does this information mean and how can we use it to make the right decisions for the future of our business?’

Welcome to the world of the accountant-analyst.

• The analyst can see beyond the numbers to picture the world of the client in relation to business life cycle, cashflow, profitability, value and strategy.
• Being curious about these numbers can open up immense opportunities for your firm to provide additional advisory services.

The recent ‘Firm of the Future’ update from CPA Australia made the observation that “accountants need diagnostic skills to interpret financial statements, along with a range of soft skills.’

• How many of the accountants in your firm have these skills and the confidence to use them?
• Do they take the time to truly understand the client’s financial situation?
• Do you have processes in place to encourage the identification of opportunities to add real value to clients by looking beyond the numbers?

In this special 4 part online program, we’ll be taking your accounting team step by step through the process of developing their analytical skills through a strong curiosity about the numbers.

• We’ll use practical examples and case studies to guide your team through the process of asking the right questions about the numbers in front of them.
• We’ll expain how these insights into the clients’ world can be used to create leads and drive new business in your firm.
• All your accountants, from graduates to partners, should participate in this program.

Session 1 –  The Big Picture of SME Business for Accountants

• Are you really seeing the big picture of business?
• The life cycle of SME business and what this means for you
• Core principles of business strategy and growth
• What business owners are interested in and why

Session 2 – Principles of Financial Analysis for Accountants

• In 15 minutes, what should you be looking at?
• Principals of financial statement analysis
• 12 Key financial ratios to assist with analysis
• Management reporting and control

Session 3-  Industry performance measures and trends

• Review of essential KPIs by key industry sectors
• What should the analyst look for in key industries
• Use of internal and external benchmarking tools
• Looking beyond the numbers to understand underlying causes

Session 4 – From needs assessment to client engagement

• What accounting firms can do to assist business owners
• Assessing business performance – a simple internal health check
• How to engage the client in discussing their issues and needs
• Put in place an internal lead development process

Session Dates / Times:

• Session 1 – Thursday 5th May     12.30 – 2.00pm AEST  2.30 – 4.00pm NZST
• Session 2 – Thursday 12th May    12.30 – 2.00pm AEST  2.30 – 4.00pm NZST
• Session 3 – Thursday 19th May    12.30 – 2.00pm AEST  2.30 – 4.00pm NZST
• Session 4 – Thursday 26th May    12.30 – 2.00pm AEST  2.30 – 4.00pm NZST

Each session is recorded with a workbook, PowerPoint notes and other documents provided. View sessions anywhere, anytime

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR SUPER-EARLYBIRD SPECIAL – $400 until 31st of March 2016

MISSED OUT? NOT TO WORRY – TAKE UP OUR REGULAR EARLYBIRD SPECIAL – $500 until 22nd of April 2016

For More Information Call 1300 883 789 (+612 9904 8400)

The program includes:

• A workbook and accompanying notes for each session.
• Opportunity to ask questions and get feedback at any stage.
• Access to the recording of each session for three months to reinforce and review learnings
• CPD Certificate on completion of the program

Fee: $600 + GST per firm

CPD: There are 12 CPD / CPE Hours available for this program. 

Money-Back Guarantee – If for whatever reason, you are not happy with your purchase, we’ll gladly issue a refund, no questions asked!

Note that TBA Knowledge Library Training Points are not available for this program.

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For Accountants

The official account of For Accountants, an online resource specifically designed for accountants in public practice.

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