Time to wise up

Richard Brewin • April 15, 2019

Sir Francis Bacon expressed the view that ‘knowledge is power’. It certainly can create the power to drive your firm forwards in these challenging times.

It’s very easy to fall into the trap of being too busy to learn, too busy to train, too busy to explore new ideas and   developments. I’m sure there are times when we’ve all done it.

Unfortunately, it comes at a cost, often not immediately obvious. Individuals and firms that starve themselves of learning limit their future growth. It may be that commercial and client needs can still be met in the short term but what feeds the development of new ideas, solutions, approaches and techniques? What fuels future performance?

When an accountant becomes guiltily aware of a lack of CPD then it is invariably the risk that comes to mind first. What about the professional bodies? What if I wrongly advise a client or fail to assist them properly? Whilst these risks are very real, there is an ongoing commercial risk as the firm gradually slips away from the cutting edge expected and required of a great professional service business.

The compliance and advisory world is rapidly changing. The needs of clients are changing as quickly, if not more so. How can you run a successful business if you are not aware of what is happening out there?

Failure to continue learning increases risk and negatively impacts profits. Those alone should be reasons enough to get online, listen to an expert, implement a development plan or research a new development. Beyond that though is the sheer satisfaction of your role and why you come to work. An up to date, outward looking, well researched business person runs a confident, trusted, highly performing business. An expert advisor has settled, trusting and well-paying clients, great client relationships. A team member who is confident and knowledgeable in their role is happy in their work and delivers great performance.

Don’t take the short term option and cut the learning corner. Create a culture of knowledge, development and training. There is no down side.

Nothing Is Successful Without Enthusiasm: Why It Matters More Than Ever in Accounting

By Richard Brewin • October 30, 2025
In a world where technology, standards, and client expectations are constantly changing, one thing remains timeless: enthusiasm . As accountants, we’re known for precision, professionalism, and integrity — but without enthusiasm, even the most talented team can fall short of its true potential. As the saying goes, “Nothing is successful without enthusiasm.” And in today’s accounting profession, that’s more relevant than ever.  Here’s why enthusiasm is the secret ingredient that fuels success — both individually and collectively.

The Heart of the Profession: Why Empathy Matters More Than Ever for Accountants

By Richard Brewin • October 24, 2025
We live in a world that feels more uncertain by the day. Small business owners are juggling rising costs, changing markets, and constant pressure to do more with less. For many, it’s not just about keeping the business afloat — it’s about holding onto a dream.  And in the middle of all this change, accountants have a quiet but powerful role to play.

Time to coach

By Richard Brewin • October 17, 2025
We’ve always been the steady hand, the voice of reason, the trusted advisor. Coaching simply helps us do that better — with more empathy, clarity, and connection. Explore the new Accountants Coaching Community, launching now in Australia and the UK.