10 Things I know about ... Managing multiple locations
Carla McCall
10) Meaningful, documented policies and procedures set the tone.
With multiple offices, you need to have leadership-approved and cohesive principles clearly communicated.
9) Communication creates trust.
We focus on direct and upfront communications. We host company-wide training on how to have candid conversations. A culture that empowers people to talk through issues leads to greater trust.
8) Space matters.
When teams do come together, the physical space they share makes a difference. Create workspaces that promote collaboration.
7) The right technology makes a difference.
Technology helps extend the room. We use video conferencing and chat via Skype and GoToMeeting, which allow us to feel face-to-face.
6) Crowd control on email.
Too much email can be overwhelming. We set up policies about things as detailed as when to reply all (hint: rarely!)
5) Security should always be a priority.
If you are even partially a mobile workforce, make sure your devices are secure.
4) The nontraditional workday is the norm.
Whether due to terrible traffic, sharing time between offices or seasonal crunches, let employees be creative with how they get their work done. Leaders should consider how their teams function best without inviting more risk.
3) Employees need a clear chain of command.
For flexible work arrangements, make clear how approvals are made to reduce feelings of inequity.
2) Routine reviews and retrospectives help optimize performance.
Our collaborative teams meet regularly on process improvement: What went well and what could we do differently to improve? We encourage open, honest and constructive feedback.
1) It all flows to the same bottom line.
Giving each office its own profit & loss can make managing expenses more complex. At AAFCPAs, we stick to one budget and try to capitalize on expense efficiencies.
Carla McCall is co-managing partner at Westborough accounting firm AAFCPAs and chairwoman of the Massachusetts Society of CPAs. You can reach her at cmccall@aafcpa.com.
WBJ Web Partners
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