from bullet trains to ski slopes, accountants embrace the freedom of remote work.
accounting arc
with liz mason, byron patrick, and donny shimamoto
center for accounting transformation
in an era where remote work is becoming increasingly prevalent, professionals are discovering the freedom and flexibility to work from virtually anywhere.
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this episode of arc hosts liz mason, cpa, and byron patrick, cpa.citp and cgma; and donny shimamoto, cpa.citp and cgma, delve into their personal experiences of working from unique locations and discuss how this trend is reshaping the professional landscape.
patrick, vice president of client success at the b3 method institute, recalls a particularly striking memory from 2012, during an event known as “snowmageddon” on the east coast. despite over six feet of snow accumulating in just a few days, patrick and his clients continued their work uninterrupted, thanks to remote access technology. “it was amazing to watch the world shut down while my workday remained unchanged,” he said, highlighting remote work’s resilience and productivity in extreme conditions.
shimamoto, founder and managing director of intraprisetechknowlogies llc and founder of the center for accounting transformation, compares the pandemic, noting how those already accustomed to virtual work environments faced fewer disruptions. he acknowledges a common concern that remote work might lead to increased workloads but shares a story of a client who allowed an employee to travel the world as long as his tasks were completed. this anecdote illustrates how remote work can facilitate life-enhancing experiences without compromising productivity.
mason, founder and ceo of high rock accounting, shares her approach to remote work, including working from various locations and integrating personal activities into her day. “sometimes i work from 8 pm to 3 am or take calls while skiing,” she says, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance that suits individual lifestyles. liz’s experience of working from a bullet train in japan and other exotic locations underscores remote work’s possibilities.
the hosts agree proactive communication and trust are essential for successful remote work. patrick stresses the importance of being transparent with team members about availability and working hours, while mason highlights the need for diligence and organization to maintain productivity. shimamoto echoes these sentiments, adding that managing expectations through detailed out-of-office messages helps ensure smooth operations.
work-life integration: the new normal
the conversation also touches on the evolving concept of work-life integration. mason advocates for allowing team members to take phone calls while walking or to schedule breaks for personal activities, reinforcing the idea that life should not be confined to traditional office hours. shimamoto emphasizes the need for flexibility, even for those without children, by sharing his practice of taking breaks for massages or naps to maintain well-being and productivity.
the hosts recognize that the accounting industry is gradually embracing remote work, with even large firms offering remote work accommodations. they encourage professionals to advocate for their needs and seek flexible work arrangements that support their mental health and personal lives. “exceptional people make flexibility possible,” mason states, urging individuals to demonstrate their productivity and reliability to gain the trust needed for remote work. “life is short, and we should find ways to make the most of it while building successful careers.”
10 key takeaways
- remote work allows professionals to work from diverse locations, from ski slopes to international cities, enhancing work and life experiences.
- advances in technology, such as remote access tools, have made it possible to maintain productivity even during extreme conditions, such as snowstorms or global pandemics.
- remote work facilitates a better integration of work and personal life, allowing individuals to manage their schedules to suit their lifestyles and personal responsibilities.
- clear and proactive communication with team members about availability and working hours is crucial for the success of remote work arrangements.
- building trust through reliability and meeting deadlines is essential for gaining the flexibility that remote work offers.
- taking breaks for personal activities, such as walks, naps, or massages, is encouraged to maintain mental health and overall well-being.
- remote work allows parents the flexibility to be more involved in their children’s lives and activities while still fulfilling their professional responsibilities.
- remote work enables professionals to travel and work from different parts of the world, attending conferences and exploring new cultures without compromising their job performance.
- the industry is gradually embracing remote work, with even large firms offering accommodations and support for non-traditional work environments.
- the shift toward remote work fosters a more flexible and integrated work culture, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being and professional success.