The Art of Saying NO & Other Productivity Strategies - Mark Fritz | Accounting Influencers Podcast - Accounting Voices Podcast

Episode 46

The Art of Saying NO & Other Productivity Strategies

Published on: 18th December, 2023

The Art of Saying No & Other Productivity Strategies with Mark Fritz

Mark Fritz focuses on the vital topic of saying no and setting boundaries. Mark highlights the significance of being assertive and maintaining focus to say no to various demands and requests effectively. He emphasises the value of listening and understanding the perspective of others when communicating a refusal. Mark also discusses the challenges busy professionals face, particularly accountants, who often feel overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks and responsibilities they have to handle.

He shares his observations on the current era of information overload and the need for individuals to prioritise and do less to achieve more. Mark suggests learning from other sectors can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing workload and avoiding burnout. The episode further delves into the psychological factors behind saying no, such as fear of disappointing others, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the pressure to fit in or be seen as a team player.

Mark offers practical advice on overcoming these fears and setting personal boundaries. He advocates for open communication and understanding between colleagues and leaders and the importance of aligning personal and professional priorities. In addition, the episode explores the role of scripts or prepared responses in navigating difficult conversations and saying no clearly and concisely. Mark highlights the importance of staying true to one's boundaries and goals and avoiding over-commitment. Throughout the interview, Mark provides examples, personal anecdotes, and practical tips on developing the confidence and assertiveness needed to say no effectively.

Mark Fritz is an accomplished leader who focuses on driving change across diverse cultures and distances. With a rich international career spanning numerous countries, including Egypt, Netherlands, Italy, and Japan, Mark has successfully spearheaded enterprise-level change initiatives. His expertise lies in leading transformation and reengineering efforts, effectively managing virtual teams, and fostering the growth of diverse, resilient groups.

Mark has left an indelible mark on executives and organisations worldwide as a renowned leadership specialist. He has been instrumental in helping them reshape their leadership approaches, resulting in improved outcomes and lasting impact. Mark's influence extends to prestigious business schools like IE Business School and HEC, where he imparts his wisdom through enlightening courses on leadership and influence.

Within organisations, Mark crafts tailored leadership programs that fortify leaders and equip them with the tools necessary for growth and triumph. His journey has taken him around the globe, where he's lived in various countries and worked in over 50 nations. Currently residing in London with his Japanese wife, Mark enjoys playing golf and cherishes collaborating with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, recognising the invaluable lessons such experiences offer.

Mark Fritz is renowned for his commitment to empowering leaders to shift away from micromanagement and embrace a culture of ownership and achievement. His expertise lies in unlocking the full potential of teams. Through impactful keynotes and masterclasses, he delivers inspirational experiences brimming with practical advice and actionable steps.

With a steadfast dedication to enhancing performance, influencing others, and mentoring, Mark's thought-provoking sessions and ongoing support have become integral to organisations' growth journeys. His unique blend of inspiration and practicality leaves audiences with clear actions and a deep desire to become the leaders they aspire to be. Mark Fritz is the catalyst for transformation and excellence in leadership.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

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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.