Cardigans & Comb Overs
June 15, 2012
When Hamish Edwards (Xero co-founder) recently tweeted that he was looking for an accountant, and that ‘if you wear a brown cardigan or have a comb over you need not apply’, it got me thinking.
In 2012, what does an accountant look like?
Are there still the pin stripe suits and ties? Or has it gone as far as jeans and t-shirts?
For me, it is not so much about the appearance but the following:
- Having a positive attitude and Passion!
- Being straight up and honest (the truth hurts sometimes!)
- Having a tech and entrepreneurial streak
- Being able to communicate across different mediums
- Being flexible to change
Any others?
[Disclosure – I own 3 cardigans, none brown…]
I honestly think you need to see a barber today Justin. Although that is the finest comb over I have seen in a long time. And for the record I own 2 cardigans, neither are brown. Like you list of what an awesome modern Chartered Accountant should have. My Pilates coach told me yesterday that he just got a tax bill and he had no previous warning it was due or the possible amount. That is 101 in my book. You have to be proactive and understand the top things your clients will expect from you, like tell me in advance what my tax bill might be and when it will be due. (BTW – No jokes about Pilates…I do it for medical reason, I promise).
Yes, I agree. The tax affairs should be a given. And if you are in constant contact with your clients, you will have an understanding of their current position in real time. Medical reasons? I believe you H!
I am loving your new look Justin ;-D. I think being approachable and not condescending is a good thing to add to your list. Some of our clients cringe at the thought of calling the accountant – we move them to a Xero accountant pretty quick! … Like you Justin 🙂
Thanks Glennis, and vice versa for our bookkeeping needs for our clients!