Effective leadership skills are essential for managing the systems, people, and processes that drive an accounting firm’s success. This session will explore the qualities of great leaders and how to apply them within your firm. You’ll also uncover the 10 most common managerial mistakes and strategies to avoid them. Join Mark for an interactive session designed to help you learn by doing, not just viewing!

Presented By: Mark Holton, Smithink

Key Takeaways:

Leadership isn’t just about direction; it’s about inspiring others, holding them accountable, and bringing out the best in your team.

Great Leaders Inspire, Support and Hold Accountable

Effective leaders set the direction, provide encouragement, and hold people to outcomes without micromanaging.

Optimism, Courage and Persistence Matter Most

Innovation and change require leaders who stay optimistic, push through barriers, and don’t give up when challenges arise.

Annually Recurring Services Need Annually Committed Leadership

Tax and advisory services should operate like annuity models. Do the work so well that clients return without hesitation.

Recognise Wins and Celebrate Success Often

Weekly recognition of staff achievements, however small, boosts morale, motivation, and retention.

Get Your People Involved in Goal Setting

Staff are more likely to achieve goals they’ve helped shape. Involve them early and align personal values with the firm’s strategy.

Communicate Clearly, Consistently and Constructively

Frequent and thoughtful communication, especially feedback, builds trust, clarity and accountability.

Trust is Built on Systems, Not Just Words

If your team understands the firm’s strategy and processes, they can make informed decisions without constant oversight.

Stretch and Grow Your Team with Meaningful Work

Don’t let your best people stagnate. Provide new challenges, diversified work, and training to grow capability.

Celebrate the Journey, Not Just the Destination

Firms that acknowledge milestones along the way create more engaged teams than those that only celebrate at EOFY.

Invest in Broader Education, Not Just Technical Training

Leadership, soft skills and mindset training are as important as technical updates. Don’t wait for others to provide it.

What leadership skills do you want to develop more? If you would like to find out more about developing leadership in the accounting industry, check out the details for our 2025 Young Guns Workshop coming up on 20-21 October 2025 on the Gold Coast. Early bird pricing is available until 26 September 2025.