I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Dave Hartley, Partner in Charge at Anders CPAs and Advisors, on podcast episode 73. In our conversation, Dave shared valuable insights on balancing a demanding career, embracing technology, and building trust through effective time management. Here are some of the highlights and key takeaways from our interview:
- Work-Life Balance: Dave explained how transitioning from public accounting to an industry role allowed him to focus on family and manage his workload effectively.
- The Power of “No”: He emphasized that every commitment should be a wholehearted yes, and learning to say no—with a clear explanation—builds professional trust.
- Embracing Technology: From the early days before mobile phones and the internet to his CIO experience, Dave illustrated how technology transforms outcomes in the accounting field.
- Career Transitions: His journey from public accounting to industry leadership and back again underscores the value of diverse experiences in shaping a successful career.
Balancing Work and Life
Dave’s transition from long hours in public accounting to a more balanced lifestyle in industry roles was eye-opening. When he became a dad, his priorities shifted significantly. As Dave shared:
“I had to figure out how to be the best dad that I can be, which is the most important job I will ever have.”
This realization led him to adopt a strict schedule—working only eight to nine hours a day. By being intentional with his time, he was able to make the biggest impact during his work hours while still dedicating quality time to his family.
Actionable Advice:
- Set clear boundaries: Define and stick to specific work hours.
- Prioritize important tasks: Focus on activities that drive the most impact.
- Embrace the power of saying no: When you commit, do so fully, and if a request doesn’t align with your priorities, explain your focus respectfully.
Building Trust Through Commitment
One of the most valuable lessons from our discussion was the significance of trust in professional relationships. Dave highlighted that saying yes means committing fully:
“If I accept a meeting, I’m in that meeting… I give it my all.”
He explained that by carefully choosing commitments and delivering on them, you build a reputation for reliability. This approach not only improves productivity but also strengthens your professional relationships, ensuring that colleagues trust you with important responsibilities.
Key Takeaways:
- Honor your commitments: When you say yes, ensure you follow through.
- Communicate effectively: Explain your reasons when you must decline additional tasks.
- Develop a focused approach: Prioritize tasks that align with your key objectives.
Embracing Technology and Innovation
Dave’s career also showcases the transformative power of technology in the accounting world. Reflecting on his early days before modern digital tools, he expressed excitement about technology’s potential:
“Technology can make our lives really so much better. It’s not just about the tools; it’s about the outcomes.”
During his time as a CIO, Dave led strategic initiatives, such as transitioning to cloud computing, that significantly impacted business operations. His ability to demystify complex tech concepts for non-technologists demonstrates that success lies in focusing on outcomes rather than technical details.
Actionable Insights:
- Stay curious: Continuously update your knowledge on emerging technologies.
- Adapt to change: Look for innovative ways to enhance work processes.
- Leverage past experiences: Use your diverse background to drive practical, outcome-based solutions.
Wrapping Up
Reflecting on my conversation with Dave Hartley, I was inspired by his clear focus on balance, trust, and innovation. His journey—marked by calculated career moves and a commitment to excellence—offers actionable lessons for anyone navigating the accounting landscape.
If you found these insights valuable and want to learn more about excelling in your accounting career, I invite you to join my monthly newsletter. Subscribe today and take the next step towards building a successful, balanced career in accounting!