Employee Involvement in Practice

The article “Employee Involvement: A New Blueprint for Success” (May 2010, page 46) affirmed many of the initiatives we have been implementing over the past year. At Concannon, Miller & Co. PC, our GO To Team consists of five individuals from all levels of our professional staff whom we have identified as the next generation of leadership within our firm. The team makes significant contributions to our office environment by leading initiatives such as software implementation, workflow processes, development and presentation of training courses and, most importantly, provides a forum for new and innovative ideas.

The team members have gained valuable experience in participating in the management of a successful firm, from day-to-day decision making to long-term planning for future growth. They have enhanced their individual skill sets in the following areas: leadership, teamwork, accountability, communication and presentation. This has accelerated their personal growth within the firm and keeps them highly motivated, engaged and excited about future opportunities.

The success of our team was evident this past tax season. Our confidential online survey found that 93% of all respondents had a better 2010 tax season than they did in the previous year. In addition, 100% stated they received adequate training before tax season to efficiently and effectively perform their job. These results directly relate to thetraining and workflow processes implemented by the team during the fall.

In conclusion, the philosophy is very simple: Put the responsibility and decision-making processes in the hands of those who can best implement change, and let them GO! This belief has fostered a better work environment, improved employee retention and increased profitability.

William F. Schiele III, CPA

St. Petersburg, Fla.