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The article focuses on methods of presenting effective presentations. It talks about the fear of public speaking and methods of dealing with it. It comments on writing down speeches and on outline formats and general notes. It suggests discussions should be tailored to the audience and their knowledge level. It states that speeches should be rehearsed before colleagues, friends, or family, and that their honest feedback should be solicited.

The article focuses on methods for preparing effective business reports. It states that the document should be written with an objective in mind, which will then affect the document's structure. It suggests utilizing an outline to help the document remain on point and to ensure it addresses every relevant issue. It comments on the need for the document to remain concise and to the point. It suggests to avoid using acronyms and buzzwords, and to proofread the document carefully.

The article focuses on what employees should consider when facing the choice of relocating for a job offer. It states that employees should examine the position to see if its short- and long-term responsibilities are consistent with interests and career goals. It suggests the employee should consider if they want to live in the new area and to visit the location and get a firsthand feel for the region. It mentions employees should examine the complete job package and determine cost-of-living.

The article focuses on methods to help employees deal with managerial conflicts. It states that uncertainty caused when employees and management find themselves at cross-purposes can affect job performance and also result in the employees worrying about job security. It suggests that employees should be open to the possibility they are contributing to problems with management through their own actions and attitudes. It suggests employees can talk to managers to discuss problems in a non-adversarial setting. It states that employees shouldn't dwell on negative aspects as this can demoralize them and is unproductive; instead, employees should work to improve on areas that cause friction with the supervisor. It mentions that bad bosses are often revealed by rapid employee turnover.

The article focuses on the development of codes of ethics in industry. It states that two accounting executives were named Persons of the Year by "Time" magazine in December of 2002 for exposing fraud and illegal activity. It mentions that financial scandals in 2002 led to legislative and industrial action. It comments that as a result a number of companies have begun to create codes of ethics for all levels of employees. It states that employees model their behavior after the actions of executives and successful people in the company, and thus if upper management is held to a different standard, lower levels of business will not adhere to corporate ethics. It suggests that employees must feel it is safe to deliver bad news to executives without worrying about repercussions.

The article focuses on the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its ramifications for corporate governance. It states that executives need to remain more strategic in their goals and accurately report progress toward those goals. It suggests the need for some staff members to be trained in generally accepted accounting practices (GAAP). It talks about risk assessment and the need to manage and monitor risk. It comments about accountability radiating from senior management on down and for ethical standards to be equal for all levels of a company.

In this article the author discusses the role that mentoring programs can play in an organization. He notes that training programs can often be costly for organizations and mentoring programs offer a cheaper alternative that can provide beneficial results. He describes the normal role that a mentor plays in a new employee's career, providing them with advice on everything from the inner workings of the office to how to get ahead. Mentors can build motivation, teamwork and increase employee competency. For the mentor these programs build supervisory and leadership skills and can also lead to higher job satisfaction due to the organization respecting their training abilities.

In this article the author examines the importance of technical skills in the accounting profession. He suggests several ways that employees can boost their technical skills and increase their value to their organization. Some of the suggestions include volunteering for a project that requires information technology skills, acquiring professional certification and seeking involvement in technology education and certification programs. He notes that by taking the initiative upon yourself you will demonstrate commitment that will be viewed as valuable by management. He adds that by becoming involved with technical projects you can offer your insight that will add functionality to the product.

A discussion on the importance of grooming a successor for individuals who find themselves in positions where they are either retiring, seeking a promotion or making any other type of career change. The author notes that by mentoring an employee to takeover your position you can help the organization avoid frantic last-minute training sessions. This type of succession planning can be beneficial even if a career move isn't on the horizon because it prepares an employee with a larger skill set.

This article examines several of the key factors that should be considered by accountants in pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector. He discusses the appeal of working in nonprofit organizations and some of the positive and negative aspects associated with work, such as helping other people while most likely taking a pay cut. The author suggests volunteering with a nonprofit to gauge how you fit with the organization. He also discusses preparing for a job search in the nonprofit sector.

The article offers advice for recruiting executives and hiring employees. The hiring process should begin with an evaluation of the job opening, the department's needs, and the skills required. The manager should use screening calls, in addition to the information on résumés, to eliminate candidates before starting the one-on-one interviews and checking references. Motivational strategies for developing employees are mentioned.

This article discusses the importance of social networking for accountants, noting it is a valuable way to build professional knowledge, gain assistance during a job search and generate future business. The author adds that you need to create long-term relationships that are mutually beneficial, do not just call on people when you need them. He suggests developing a system for managing your list of contacts and notes the importance of maintaining professional courtesy.

This article presents an assessment of the strategic plans applied by managers in dealing with budget restraints and conflicting demands. The author suggests creating a plan for financial systems upgrade which includes managing your time more effectively, setting up a delegation of work and promoting collaboration with members of the accounting staff. The author also discusses the importance of getting away from work to avoid burnout and how this sets a positive example for employees.

The article discusses best practices when employing accounting and financial professionals on a temporary or consulting basis. The article suggests preparing the workplace, providing the tools for success, keeping them motivated, and monitoring progress. The article also suggests soliciting input from full-time employees as to the success of the engagement, as well as following up with the consultant on their observations of your internal processes.

The article considers the opportunities available to experienced accounting professionals wishing to change career direction. The author proposes several options, including switching industries, moving from corporate to nonprofit accounting, becoming a consultant, or branching out into a new field. Once a direction is found, it is important to market yourself, enhance your abilities, or develop new skills.

The article presents interviewing tips for applicants in managerial positions. The author suggests researching the firm doing the hiring. Understand the organization's priorities, strengths, weaknesses, and chief competitors. Understand how your skills and strengths fit into the goals of the company. Highlight your communication skills; treat everyone you meet as a decision maker; and make sure by your own actions, that this is a place where you will succeed.

The article provides some guidelines in enhancing the morale and productivity of employees during business reorganizations and downsizing. The article suggests assessing individual workloads before assigning new responsibilities, promoting creativity, initiative, and ownership within the organization, encouraging professional development, implementing mentoring programs, and remembering to acknowledge individual contributions with a word of thanks.

The article presents advice on staying motivated during a lengthy job search. Consider taking a class in something that will increase your value to prospective employers. Keep your spirits high by performing volunteer work that helps others, and keep your energy level high by getting regular exercise. Set aside the occasional day for removing your thoughts completely from employment issues. Surround yourself with positive people who can help you stay motivated. Keep a diary of your job search, as it could yield important insights that promote success.

The article presents advice on conducting a career audit aimed at helping one identify and achieve professional goals. At the outset one should ask basic questions about such things as what truly motivates a person and the type of corporate environment one is best-suited for. Next should come an inventory of personal assets and liabilities. In addition to skills and achievements, identify shortcomings and consider what can be done to address them. Encourage honest feedback from others, and recognize participation in professional associations as a way to learn from one's peers.

The article discusses how to prevent undue stress or "burnout" at work. Assign priorities to tasks and devote the majority of your time to those that are most critical. Increase time available for important initiatives by delegating other duties. Don't fret over those things in your work environment that you cannot change. Resolve conflicts at work instead of letting them fester. Take time to recognize your achievements. Work periodic breaks or "down time" into your schedule. Finally, strive to achieve a balance between work and other aspects of your life.

The article discusses the value of promoting employee creativity. Although the status quo may represent the easiest path for many managers, polling data indicate firms are increasingly placing a higher value on work-force creativity. Several practices assist to this end. Employees who are empowered to make decisions often arrive at novel and efficient solutions. Workers kept informed of a company's vision and values can sometimes use that information as a springboard for creativity. Brainstorming sessions held in a fun and relaxed atmosphere can be extremely valuable.

The article focuses on the steps needed for companies to identify the right job applicant for a position. It states that the development of a hiring strategy can make a difference in the evaluation of potential employees. It mentions that specific hiring standards helps companies screen out irrelevant elements in the hiring process. It comments on the need for multiple staff members to have input in the hiring process. It talks about the steps needed to negotiate job offers.

This article presents guidelines for leading business organizations through periods of transition. The author discusses the importance of planning, communicating and following-up on initiatives. He notes that managers should accentuate the positive outcomes of transitions and also stresses the importance of relaxation time in the company.

The article offers advice on evaluating resumes. Resumes are meant to highlight a job applicant's strengths while deemphasizing their weaknesses. Discussion is given pertaining to resume styles and the type of information that can be gathered from potential employees' cover letters and outside interests.

The article focuses on the selection of employee training programs. Key considerations in choosing professional development options are discussed. Some models of corporate training are described, as well as the establishment of a system for monitoring the success of a training program.

The author discusses how accountants can increase their marketability to potential employers. The author notes that the skills demanded in a particular field are constantly changing and that it is necessary to be aware of what the current skills in demand are in order to most effectively market yourself. The author suggests highlighting your accomplishments, maintaining credentials and soft skills and understanding your personal requirements. He also recommends seeking a mentor.

The article presents some suggestions for running effective meetings. First, the author asks if a meeting is necessary. Second, the article recommends choosing the appropriate location, focusing on the primary objective, developing and sticking to the agenda, and taking notes. Other suggestions for effective meetings are presented.

The article discusses the issues a senior-level financial professional should consider when contemplating a job offer with a start-up company. The article advises the candidate to look at the company's potential, goals, the viability of the product or service, sound business plan, realistic earnings projections, adequate funding, management skill sets, and enough funding to go public or to attract investors. Additionally, the article suggests ways the candidate might find this information, raises compensation package considerations, and advises the candidate to asses his/her own ability to handle the stress and demands of this opportunity.

The article describes strategies for managing accountants to maintain and facilitate communication with business colleagues during official travels. The author presents methods of preparation for unexpected communication barriers and examines the importance of empowering employees to manage their own business communications.

The article discusses advantages for accountants in earning a professional certification. The author provides information about the high value placed by executives on accreditation. Details related to an organization's reliance on financial staff for assistance with strategic planning are offered. A discussion is presented about earning a certified management accountant (CMA) or certified in financial management (CFM) certification and how completing a program shows a lifelong commitment to the profession.

The article offers tips for accounting and finance managers on becoming peak performers. The author includes information on the prioritization of tasks and time management tips. A discussion is presented about the importance of maintaining a big-picture perspective and keeping organizational goals in mind. Details related to the consideration of options to streamline processes are presented. The author focuses on the avoidance of procrastination and asserts the virtues of practice decision-making based on process effectiveness.

This article provides tips on how to improve one's writing skills and confidence when preparing business reports. The author discusses the value in having a mastery of the mechanics of effective writing and business communication. He points out the importance of organizing one's thoughts and ideas when preparing a report and stresses the need of proofreading and editing one's work.

This article discusses several factors executives should consider in undertaking employee performance reviews. The author examines the benefits of performance reviews, noting that they can keep employees focused on goals and objectives. He also recommends strategies for selecting a review system which include determining how to track performance and to what degree employees have in establishing this criteria. He provides several examples of common review systems.

The article provides different options for recovery from a career setback. A discussion is presented about various forms of career setbacks and offers advice on ways to channel the negative aspects of a setback into a positive drive for future career development. Information related to the impact of a positive outlook on career status and the emotional impact of a bad performance review or layoff is presented. The author stresses the importance of work interest to the performance.

The article presents tips for accountants when applying for jobs in the United States. A discussion is presented about how to make the first contact with the company and the importance of paying attention to details. The author stresses the importance of showing respect for contact's time in order to make the best impression possible.

The article provides guidelines on how to prevent employee turnover. The author describes signs of possible employee resignation and reports on the importance of a competitive compensation. A discussion is presented about the creation of an intellectually stimulating environment, formation of a policy for promoting employees and encouragement of a balanced lifestyle.

The article offers business managers advice on how to deal with employee-initiated proposals that are financially and politically risky for the company. The importance of promoting and rewarding prudent risk taking in creating and maintaining a culture that welcomes creativity is discussed. Several ways that managers can encourage creativity in the workplace are presented, as well as the need to define what is considered acceptable risk taking.

The article offers suggestions on how financial professionals can partner with a recruiting firm or professional for the best career opportunities. Details related to finding the right recruiter, what to expect from a recruiter, and how to get the most from a partnership with a recruiter are discussed.

The article offers advice on how to effect a smooth return to the workforce following a long absence. Experts recommend conducting a thorough audit of ones' skills. They explain that it's critical to identify strengths, weaknesses, ambitions, and preferences. Hiring managers also look for candidates with strong interpersonal skills, broad-based business knowledge, and the ability to communicate technical information to lay people.

The article presents suggestions on how to effectively delegate responsibilities to a team of employees. The author explains that through this practice, the manager not only makes time to complete important projects but also empowers those who are given added responsibilities. The article describes some of the challenges that people face when considering delegation as an option during stressful situations.

The article discusses the need to put in place orientation programs as a way to retain employees. The author discusses planning orientations strategically, the element of timing, and suggests some tactics for success. The author provides several tips for planning orientations including clarifying responsibilities for new employees.

The article presents strategies for building presentation skills and preparing for a public-speaking event, which include creating a positive mind-set, identifying goals, understanding the audience type, planning the presentation, and using audio or visual aids.

The article discusses information technology expertise as a critical component of an accounting and finance manager's job. Companies are seeking candidates with more advanced capabilities to handle e-business initiatives. The increasing value of knowledge of database software and networking applications is discussed. An increasing number of companies are investing in training, and looking to maintain productivity during training periods.

The article discusses ways of retaining accounting and finance employees in light of strong competition for such positions. Experts say employees search for opportunities for professional growth and mentoring. They say it's important for a firm to provide competitive compensation and focus on clear communication with staff.

The article discusses the use of interdepartmental project teams as an opportunity for professional growth. Competitive and cost pressures are making cross-functional teams imperative for streamlining systems and developing cohesive strategic initiatives. These teams also offer firms a chance to broaden their understanding of the issues that challenge their peers in areas such as systems technology, operations, and customer service.

The article discusses the prospect of hiring outside assistance when a company's work load increases due to a time sensitive project and how the organization can get the greatest return on its investment. The author suggests that before hiring an outside consulting firm during transitional periods, certain elements should be considered to ensure that the services are being utilized to their full potential.

Focuses on the rightsizing moves of companies in California. Confusion of rightsizing with layoffs; Steps involved in rightsizing; Advantages to companies and permanent or core employers; Factors enabling departments to take advantage of rightsizing's flexibility.