AP Now Episode 37: Mary Schaeffer & Patsy Christian on What Success in AP Looks Like

Proving just how far technology has come, Patsy Christian joined the AP Now podcast from across the pond. She shared with the host, Mary Schaeffer, her thoughts what success in accounts payable looks like.

She began discussing her background and touched upon a Leadership award she had recently won. This led to an overview of her philosophy and the beginning focus of all success in accounts payable, the accounts payable team. Patsy was quick to give credit to her group.

She then moved on to discuss the importance of support, both for her team and from management. She reflected on the fact that this can make all the difference. This led to a discussion of robust processes and why they were so critical. Patsy then shared the question she always asks, and her staff has learned to expect: Why? She shared an old chestnut about asking why five times until you were certain you had exhausted all possibilities.

The last component of her success plan revolved around honesty – both with staff and with management. This included when there was bad news to share. By always being honest, you build a reputation that people will come to trust. So, even though it sometimes might be difficult to share bad news, the discomfort will be much less than if it is hidden and then comes to light.

We closed with a discussion of next year’s AP Association (UK) conference and whether Jamie Radford would be able to persuade her to speak again. I certainly hope so.

Host: Mary Schaeffer (www.ap-now.com)

Guest: Patsy Christian (https://twitter.com/CleverInventive )

Host: Stampli (www.stampli.com/APNow)

Credit: Music: https://www.purple-planet.com