You’re in an accounting management career. What’s the best way to stay adaptable?

1 Embrace lifelong learning

One of the best ways to stay adaptable is to embrace lifelong learning as a mindset and a habit. Accounting is not a static profession; it evolves constantly with new rules, tools, and best practices. You need to update your knowledge and skills regularly to maintain your professional competence and credibility. You can do this by taking online courses, attending webinars, reading journals and blogs, joining professional associations, and earning certifications. Learning new things will also help you discover new opportunities, expand your network, and enhance your career prospects.

3 Experiment and innovate

A third way to stay adaptable is to experiment and innovate with new ideas and approaches. Accounting is not only about numbers and rules; it is also about creativity and problem-solving. You can experiment and innovate by trying new methods, tools, or processes, and evaluating their results and impacts. You can also encourage your staff to do the same, and create a culture of innovation and learning in your team. Experimenting and innovating can help you find better ways to do your work, increase your efficiency and effectiveness, and add value to your organization.

4 Collaborate and network

A fourth way to stay adaptable is to collaborate and network with others in your field and beyond. Collaboration and networking can help you learn from others' experiences, insights, and perspectives, and gain exposure to different situations and challenges. You can collaborate and network by participating in projects, teams, or committees, both within and outside your organization. You can also attend events, conferences, or workshops, and connect with other professionals online or offline. Collaboration and networking can help you build relationships, exchange information, and access resources that can support your career growth.

5 Be open and curious

A fifth way to stay adaptable is to be open and curious about new things and changes. Being open and curious means having a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and try new things. It also means being flexible and resilient when facing uncertainty or adversity. You can be open and curious by asking questions, listening actively, seeking different opinions, and exploring new possibilities. Being open and curious can help you embrace change, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities in your accounting management career.

6 Review and reflect

A sixth way to stay adaptable is to review and reflect on your performance and progress. Reviewing and reflecting can help you assess your achievements and challenges, and identify your learning needs and goals. You can review and reflect by keeping a journal, portfolio, or log of your work, and analyzing your feedback, results, and outcomes. You can also seek coaching, mentoring, or counseling to help you review and reflect. Reviewing and reflecting can help you celebrate your successes, learn from your mistakes, and plan your next steps in your accounting management career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?