“Running a hybrid team is challenging. Yet, if work is structured correctly, it frees your team to be more productive than they are today.”
The world of work is evolving, and the accounting industry is no exception. As remote and hybrid work models become more prevalent, many accounting firms wonder how to navigate this shift effectively. In a recent podcast, Rob Brown sits down with Jeff Phillips, Co-founder of Accountingfly and CEO of Padgett, to discuss the opportunities and challenges of managing remote teams in the accounting field. With years of experience overseeing remote teams, Jeff offers invaluable advice on how firms can adapt and thrive in this new work environment.
The Remote Work Revolution in Accounting
Moving from traditional office-based work to hybrid and fully remote models has brought excitement and apprehension. Many firm owners worry about productivity, communication, and maintaining a strong company culture when team members are scattered. However, Jeff emphasizes that with the right systems and mindset, firms can see increased productivity with remote staff.
Key Strategies for Success
- Shift to a Results-Oriented Mindset
One of the biggest hurdles in remote work is trust. Many firm leaders are accustomed to the “see you to trust you” mentality, where physical presence equates to productivity. Jeff stresses shifting to a results-oriented approach, focusing on outcomes rather than hours worked. - Embrace Asynchronous Communication
In remote environments, not everyone will be online at the same time. Jeff highlights the importance of asynchronous communication—where messages and updates are shared without expecting an immediate response. This allows team members to work at peak productivity and keeps projects moving efficiently.”Don’t even look at the technology until you’ve defined your philosophy about how we’re going to communicate,” Jeff advises, emphasizing that clear communication strategies are the foundation of any successful remote team. - Leverage Project Management Tools
Keeping track of tasks and productivity can be tricky when your team is remote. Jeff recommends adopting robust project management tools that provide transparency and accountability, ensuring everyone stays on track no matter where they work. - Maintain Company Culture with Intentional Check-Ins
Remote work doesn’t have to mean a loss of company culture. Jeff suggests implementing regular “office hours” and personal check-ins to keep team members connected and engaged. These touchpoints can help maintain a sense of camaraderie and ensure that employees feel supported.
Unlocking the Full Potential of Remote Work
While remote work presents challenges, it also offers significant opportunities for accounting firms to grow and innovate. With the right approach, firms can boost productivity, foster trust, and maintain a vibrant company culture—regardless of their team members’ location.
To dive deeper into these strategies and hear more insights from Jeff Phillips, listen to the full podcast episode. Whether you’re just beginning to explore remote work or looking to optimize your current setup, this conversation offers practical advice to help your firm succeed in the digital age.
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