In the Land of Accounting Soles

As an accountant and bookkeeper, I’ve tread through the financial statements of various industries, wearing many different "shoes" along the way. Much like my transition from high-heel wedges to flip-flops, and eventually to sneakers, my approach to different clients has evolved significantly over time.

In my early days, fresh out of college, my confidence was as high as my 3-4 inch wedges. I was ready to conquer the world, one balance sheet at a time. Equipped with a universal checklist, I believed I could apply the same accounting principles to any business, big or small. However, just as wearing wedges daily proved to be a lesson in practicality, so did applying a one-size-fits-all approach to clients.

Then came the flip-flop phase. Ah, the freedom! This was not just a fashion choice but a state of mind, inspired by the laid-back beach effect and the desire for sand between my toes. In accounting terms, this was when I began to realize that not all businesses fit into the same mold. The checklist I used for a manufacturing company was vastly different from what was needed for a tech startup. Flexibility became my new mantra, understanding that while the basics of accounting remain constant, their application can vary as much as summer footwear.

Motherhood brought about the biggest change in both my wardrobe and my professional life. Sneakers became my go-to for their comfort and versatility, much like the customized approach I now take with each client. Gone are the days of high heels and one-size-fits-all checklists. Today, I have a different "pair of sneakers" for each client, recognizing that the work-from-home uniform of leggings and the unique needs of each business require a tailored approach.

Just as you wouldn't wear flip-flops to run a marathon or wedges to a beach party, you can't apply the same accounting practices to every business. Each client, like each pair of shoes, has its own set of needs, challenges, and goals. Understanding this has not only made me a better accountant but also saved me from many metaphorical blisters along the way.

So, to my fellow accountants, remember: what fit then, may not fit now. Keep your "shoe" closet diverse and be ready to walk a mile in different soles. After all, the right fit is everything – in shoes and in client relationships. And who knows? Maybe along the way, you’ll find that perfect pair that feels just right.

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