I have been involved and facilitated CPA firm partner strategic planning retreats for several decades. These important meetings are critical to the future success of the firm. The sessions can be invigorating or depressing and sometimes both.
Often, the group wants to address big issues when they haven’t addressed the many smaller issues that set the stage for future growth and success. When there are silos and dysfunction about day-to-day operations it is impossible to address big issues like partner compensation or M&A.
Many partner groups want to grow so they can become a “big” firm yet the partners rely on one or two rainmakers with the remaining partners taking a backseat.
In this day and age, keep in mind what Rupert Murdoch said, “The world is changing very fast. Big will not beat small anymore. It will be the fast beating the slow.”
The phrase, “Small But Mighty” comes to mind. Get your house in order immediately and then move on to the bigger issues. As individual partners, be willing to CHANGE quickly. Don’t remain comfortable with the status quo.
Here’s a link to my retreat facilitation information.