Jumping from CPA to CFO.
Here are 5 DON'Ts when making the leap:
1. Don't replicate what worked for a CPA.
The CPA role is often focused on compliance, audit, and tax. In contrast, the CFO role requires a much broader skillset around strategic planning, financial analysis, cash management, and operational leadership.
Instead of relying on your CPA experience, be ready to expand your capabilities and focus more on the forward-looking, business partnership aspects of the CFO role.
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2. Don't use technical accounting jargon.
As a CPA, you're used to communicating in technical accounting terms. But as a CFO, it's important to translate financial information into plain language that the leadership team can easily understand.
Use simple, common language until everyone is on the same page.
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3. Don't limit yourself to finance and accounting.
While your focus as a CPA has probably been on the numbers, as a CFO, you'll need to be involved in overall business strategy, operations, and cross-functional collaboration.
Be ready to step outside your comfort zone and contribute to a wider business.
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4. Don't overcomplicate things.
As a CPA, you're trained to verify accounting compliance and control. As a CFO, however, your role is to provide quick, "good enough" insights rather than a line-by-line analysis.
Focus on generating timely and directionally accurate information to support rapid decision-making.
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5. Don't delegate everything.
In many companies, particularly smaller ones, the CFO needs to be hands-on and willing to get involved in the day-to-day work.
Be prepared to be a proactive doer, not just a high-level thinker.
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I hope this helps someone out there.
