Businesses that Care Podcast (formerly Mere Mortals Unite)
Business:Management
096 Fun as Business Culture
URL: http://www.julieannsullivan.com/creating-fun-as-business-culture/
Summary
Can an accounting firm actually be a fun place to work? The two concepts of “fun” and “accounting” seem to be polar opposites. On this episode, you’ll learn how one forward-thinking accounting firm has carefully created a fun business culture that allows their team members to grow and thrive.
I’m thrilled to share an interview with Bill Hagaman, CEO and Managing Partner of WithumSmith+Brown. Since I’m a recovering accountant, I was very intrigued to have Bill on the show. We don’t think of an accounting firm as a place where people have fun, but as you’ll learn in this episode, they have used videos and other intriguing programs to establish a business culture that is enjoyable and growth-oriented. You’ll be inspired to start thinking of ways to boost the culture at your own workplace after hearing how Withum does it. You might even be inspired to get up and dance!
Bill’s Bio: Bill is the Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of WithumSmith+Brown, PC, and has been a member of the firm’s management for over 30 years. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New Jersey, New York and Florida, as well as a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), specializing in merger and acquisition services and international business.
A graduate of Richard Stockton College of New Jersey with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Bill joined Withum in 1980. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). He has also demonstrated a leadership role in expanding the firm’s global capabilities, serving as a current executive committee member of HLB International and as the former chairman of Nexia International USA. Both are worldwide networks of independent accounting firms and business advisors.
Bill has appeared on several television and radio programs discussing topics related to leadership and business management. He is frequently quoted in accounting and business publications, and has authored many articles over the years on topics ranging from fixed asset management, mergers and acquisitions and leadership within the profession.
You’ll discover:
The programs Withum uses to engage its team members. Why they use the term “team members” instead of “staff” or “employees.” What it means to “dress for the day.” How Withum uses a suggestion box to gather great ideas. The way Withum uses its annual video to differentiate themselves, increase engagement, recruit team members, and bring in new business. How Bill uses the ten elements of the “Withum Way” to create and maintain the company’s culture. The importance of repeating yourself and delivering the same message over and over again. How Bill uses the annual meeting to increase engagement and create a fun culture.
The Ten Elements of the Withum Way
Interview Links & Other Resources
Withum.com
The Withum Way
Breaking Stereotypes of Accountants (Video)
2016 State of the Firm (Video)
Follow Withum on Twitter
Businesses That Care on C-Suite Radio
iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review
236 It has Been Illuminating with Julie Ann Sullivan
235 MyOutDesk - Key Strategies for Remote Workers with Daniel Ramsey
234 Culture is Everything Kickstarter with Tristan White
233 How to Flourish. It Doesn’t Need to be Hard, with Tonille Miller
232 Accountability as a Positive Paradigm Shift with Meridith Powell
231 The Importance of Authenticity at Acceleration Partners
230 The Importance of Creating a Safe Environment at FranklinCovey
229 Characteristics to Learn for Effective Leadership with Julie Ann Sullivan
228 Customer Service From Both Sides Now with Laurie Guest
227 Tasty Catering - From Rock Bottom to 10,000 Events a Year with Tom Walter
226 Is it Really Fun to Work at WithumSmith+Brown? A Look From the Inside
225 Gratitude – A Key to Transforming Your Workplace with Julie Ann Sullivan
224 Barry-Wehmiller, Where Everybody Matters with Rhonda Spencer
223 The Importance of Flexibility on the Path to Success with Julie Ann Sullivan
222 What? Give Women a Voice? With Rhonda Leeman Taylor
221 Empowerment as a Tool for Everyone's Success with Julie Ann Sullivan
220 Creating a Safe Space Through Asking, Listening and Sharing at Benefex
219 Empowering Your Employees to Act Like an Owner with Shep Hyken
218 Three Steps to Success in 2020 with Julie Ann Sullivan
217 The Necessity of Strategic Disengagement with Julie Ann Sullivan
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Commercial Edge: Unleash the Power of People
The emPOWERed Half Hour
Crack the Customer Code
Mind Your Business With Yitzchok Saftlas
Amazing Business Radio
Book Marketing Mentors
The Female Insight Zone