7 tips for CPAs on how to be a strategic thinker.

Today’s CPAs do more than just crunch numbers — they’re trusted advisors, business leaders and strategic thinkers. But what does it mean to be a strategic thinker, and how can CPAs develop this critical skill? In this blog, we’ll provide some insights on how to be a strategic thinker in the rapidly changing business world.

The key to becoming a good strategist is knowing how to take calculated risks and make well-thought-out decisions based on the goals outlined by your company, department or current project.

In most cases, strategic thinking isn’t something you can learn in school — it’s a skill you develop over time. It’s a potent mix of professional experience and three key elements: creativity, analysis and communication.

Learning to be a strategic thinker takes practice, but you can develop several strategic thinking skills and habits to improve your abilities. Here are seven tips to help you get started:

1. let your curiosity run free

One of the most valuable habits you can cultivate is curiosity. Being curious allows you to learn new things, adopt fresh perspectives and make innovative discoveries. Curiosity also sparks creativity, making it easier to develop new ideas. In your daily life and at work:

• Ask questions and seek answers
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends through specialized websites, publications and conferences
• Show genuine interest in colleagues and competitors
• Pursue training and development opportunities that nurture creativity

2. sharpen your communication skills

The best solutions aren’t worth much if no one knows they exist! To make a meaningful impact, focus on clearly articulating your ideas and rallying your team behind them. Remember, communication is a two-way street — actively listening to and understanding your colleagues' perspectives is just as important as expressing your own. Practice speaking up in meetings and come prepared with thoughtful questions and comments. You could also join a public speaking or debate club to help build confidence.

3. break down barriers

If you want to refine your strategic thinking, you’ll need a thorough understanding of the company you work for. Familiarize yourself with the roles and issues of colleagues across different departments. Invite a coworker from another department for a coffee to discuss your personal challenges, ask one of your managers to be your mentor, or get involved in the company’s social club. This will give you an in-depth understanding of each situation.

4. prove yourself as a leader

Taking on more responsibilities is the best way to develop your skills. If the opportunity arises, ask to spearhead a project, share your ideas and call upon other people’s talents to create effective solutions.

5. practise making decisions

You need to learn how to be a confident decision-maker. Analyze the situation, evaluate the pros and cons, calculate risks and benefits and then go for it. Be prepared to back up your choices, but don’t let your search for justifications hold you back. Researching different types of decision-making models can also be helpful.

6. get off the beaten path

Try to take a step back when you’re working on your daily tasks. Ask yourself if you can use a different methodology or a new tool to add even more value to your work. What could you change to better serve the goals and interests of the company, or your clients? For a different perspective, get input from someone outside the situation, like a friend or a coworker from another department.

7. accept that making mistakes is part of the process

Don’t think of each mistake as a failure, but a golden opportunity to learn, expand your horizons and perfect your skills. Just don’t make the same one twice!

Whether you’re an intern or a manager, developing your strategic thinking abilities will give you a competitive advantage. It will allow you to play a more active role in your company’s evolution and discover sustainable solutions to problems you encounter. The earlier you start polishing this aspect of your personality, the more opportunities will come your way. CPAs who can prove their worth as strategists are viewed as trusted partners, forever in problem-solving mode.

When it comes to strategic thinking, diversifying your experience will give you a broader perspective. We have helped hundreds of CPAs with their career advancement. If you think you’re ready for a new challenge, contact a Randstad branch near you!