The Future of Hybrid Work in Accounting: Key Insights from Industry Leaders John Fenton and John Whichmann - Accounting Voices Podcast

Episode 103

Hybrid Working Best Practices for Accounting Firms

Published on: 21st January, 2025

Rob Brown interviews John Wichmann and John Fenton on the evolving landscape of hybrid work in the accounting industry. They explore the importance of intentionality, accountability, and the overall employee experience in creating a successful hybrid work environment. The discussion highlights the challenges firms face in adapting to new work models, the necessity of structured opportunities for collaboration, and the need for flexibility in workplace culture. They also touch on the lessons that can be learned from other industries and make predictions about the future of hybrid work in accounting.

Key Takeaways

  • Hybrid work doesn't have to be a broken model.
  • Flexibility is crucial for attracting and retaining talent.
  • The apprenticeship model is vital for professional growth.
  • Communication challenges arise in hybrid work settings.
  • Intentionality in hybrid work can enhance productivity.
  • Employee engagement is key to a successful hybrid model.
  • Diversity in the workplace benefits from hybrid work options.
  • Economic factors influence the viability of hybrid work.
  • Understanding employee preferences is essential for management.
  • The future of work requires a balance between remote and in-office presence. It's not about the amount of time spent in the office.
  • The office experience must justify the commute.
  • Intentionality is key to successful hybrid work.
  • Accountability fosters trust within teams.
  • Trust issues can arise during downturns.
  • Flexibility must be part of the firm's culture.
  • Firms need to differentiate themselves in the talent market.
  • Employee engagement is critical for retention.
  • Learning from other industries can provide valuable insights.
  • Intentionality will define the future of hybrid work.

Sound Bites

  • "We want people to be at the water cooler."
  • "Hybrid work adds a huge amount of value."
  • "It's not about the amount of time."
  • "How often has it been worth the commute?"
  • "You want to have opportunities structured."
  • "Accountability is critical."
  • "Trust issues bubble up in down times."
  • "You need to set your firm apart."
  • "Intentionality is the future."

You can watch this whole episode on youtube with graphics and images here:

https://youtu.be/fBBvlpRE75o

John Fenton is the founder of John J. Fenton Executive Coaching, where he empowers CPA firm leaders to achieve greater clarity and freedom. Previously a managing partner with BDO USA, John brings a wealth of experience to his coaching practice. He is the author of the best-selling book 5 Minute Mastery™ and an award-winning speaker on executive leadership excellence. A Certified Success Principles Trainer, John is also a current Vistage speaker and formerly served as a Vistage Coach. A double graduate of the University of Miami, John earned both his MBA and BBA degrees while showcasing his leadership skills as a member of the Miami Hurricanes Football team. Personally, he holds a black belt in the martial art of tai chi and has a profound perspective on success, shaped by his experience surviving a heart attack. https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjfentonceocoach

John Wichmann is the Founder and CEO of Gather Sciences and the creator of Balanced Hybrid®, a platform that helps organizations develop sustainable hybrid work models. With expertise in data analytics, consulting, and executive leadership, John focuses on solutions that enhance productivity and employee development in the accounting profession.

Previously, John co-founded Maptician, a workplace management software company featured in Inc. Magazine for its innovative hybrid work solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. A frequent speaker on hybrid work strategies, John advocates for approaches that drive growth, employee well-being, and environmental benefits. Based in Atlanta, he actively supports the tech community and leads the Technology Executives Roundtable as President of the Board. https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwichmann

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About the Podcast

Accounting Voices Podcast
Accounting Voices helps people in the accounting world stay relevant visible and vocal. Host Rob Brown interprets trends reshaping the profession and gives listeners insight to build authority influence and a stronger voice in firms and markets.
Accounting Voices, hosted by Rob Brown, helps decision makers and leaders in accounting and finance stay relevant, visible and vocal in a profession being reshaped by technology, private equity, regulation and shifting client expectations. Each episode interprets the trends disrupting accounting and finance such as AI, automation, M&A, talent and the move to advisory and translates them into practical insight that strengthens authority and influence.
Accounting Voices is also a platform for the wider ecosystem of networks, associations, educators, consultants, software vendors and technology experts who serve accountants and finance professionals worldwide. It extends into regular Accounting Voices networking sessions that connect this audience and amplify ideas that move the profession forward. With its international reach and long shelf life the show delivers credibility and commercial value for listeners and sponsors alike. Search for "Accounting Voices" on YouTube for all episodes and connect with Rob Brown on LinkedIn to find out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

About your host

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Rob Brown

ob Brown is the creator and host of the Accounting Voices Network, a media platform that includes the flagship solo podcast Accounting Voices and the panel shows Accounting M&A and Accounting Tech. He chairs conferences, panels and virtual events worldwide and is recognised as a leading advocate for the accounting profession.

He is an accomplished speaker and authority on trust, reputation, employer brand, talent, succession, executive presence and the forces shaping the future of accounting. Rob is the author of the bestselling book Build Your Reputation (Wiley) and his TEDx talk The Personal Brand of You has been viewed more than 400,000 times.

A former co-founder of the Accounting Influencers Roundtable, Rob now focuses on amplifying the voices of leaders, firms, networks, vendors and influencers across the global accounting ecosystem.

Outside of work he is a stroke survivor, lives with epilepsy, holds a black belt in kickboxing and is based in Nottingham, UK. He plays chess and backgammon, loves orange chocolate and is allergic to grapefruit.