Blog
Developing your firm’s strategy checklist
Reviewing your accounting firm’s strategic structure is a valuable way to align partners and leaders with the firm’s direction. It is also a strong entry point into advisory-based strategic planning services for your business clients. The following 15-point Strategy Checklist is a practical tool for planning, organising, and reviewing how effectively your strategic plan is…
Read MoreFrom Silos to Synergy: Why Culture, Not Configuration, Defines Cloud Security
“The greatest weakness in your cloud security setup isn’t misconfiguration – it’s mindset.” As the professional services sector embraces the cloud, the conversation around security is shifting. The new frontier of risk management is not just about technology; it’s about people, behaviours, and culture. In a world where data is everywhere and threats evolve daily,…
Read MoreClosing the Loop: Lessons from a Lifetime of Practice, People, and Progress
If you’ve been reading my blogs over the years, you’ll recognise the same drumbeat beneath every topic: make it simpler, make it smarter, make it serve people. I’ve written about pricing and productivity, talent and leadership, marketing and client experience, and systems, data, and the great unbundling of work by technology. I’ve nudged (and occasionally…
Read MoreLeadership Strategies for Accounting Firms
Leadership in an accounting practice is the ability to guide people and the firm toward shared goals through influence, clarity and consistent action. In high-performing firms, strong leadership shows up in measurable outcomes across practice management. What great leaders improve: Leaders do things differently, and they get superior results. Above all, they work well with…
Read MoreFrom Compliance to Confidence: Managing an Accounting Firm in the Modern Era
Running a successful accounting firm today goes far beyond technical expertise. The environment is shifting rapidly, driven by client expectations, technology, and workforce dynamics, and firms need to adapt if they want to thrive. Effective management requires clarity of vision, purposeful leadership, and a deep focus on people. Leadership and Culture At the heart of…
Read MoreThe Burnout Barrier – Five Simple Strategies for Accountants to Simplify and Restore
As Australian accountants, you navigate demanding schedules, tight deadlines, and the ever-evolving landscape of financial regulations. In the pursuit of excellence for your clients, it’s easy to let the pressure build. However, neglecting your well-being can lead to a state many professionals dread: burnout. Burnout isn’t just feeling a bit tired; it’s a state of…
Read MoreGet Business Advisory Right: Start with Strategy, Not Software
Many firms jump straight to software when they decide to offer business advisory services. It’s an easy trap to fall into. But without a clear plan, the right people, and a solid service model, the tech won’t deliver what you’re hoping for. Software supports advisory, but it doesn’t start it. You need a business advisory…
Read MoreFrom Cost-Cutting to Value Creation; Let’s Simplify the New Role of Outsourcing
For years, outsourcing was primarily seen as a cost-cutting tool, sort of like a way to shift non-core functions to lower-cost regions and improve profit margins. While reducing operational costs remains a valid advantage, today’s business leaders are beginning to see outsourcing through a more strategic lens. It’s no longer just about saving money; it’s…
Read MoreWhat Star Performers Want: Creating a Firm That Attracts and Keeps the Best
The success of your firm comes down to one thing: your people. Talent is your biggest competitive advantage and your most valuable asset. But attracting and retaining star performers takes more than good coffee and casual Fridays. The best people want more, and firms that understand this will win the talent game. Keep it interesting…
Read MoreMark Holton awarded Medal of the Order of Australia
We’re proud to share that Smithink Director Mark Holton has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division as part of the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours. This award recognises Mark’s outstanding service to the community through a broad range of sporting, educational, and charitable organisations. While well-known in the…
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