Successful Year-end Reviews During COVID-19

What a financial year it has been! As well as the impact that coronavirus has had on Accounting firms, this time of year can create pressure due to heightened work-load and expectations, as well as the tight deadline of the End of Financial Year.

As we reach June 30th, year-end appraisals and salary reviews are due, although this year expectations and outcomes may differ due to the uncertainty that many Accounting firms still face. In order to still harness year-end reviews as an opportunity, Accountants must analyse and strategise to finetune their goals for the next financial year.

This may not be the time to discuss an immediate pay rise but you can construct a plan of action with your employer to work towards a promotion or pay rise in 3-6 months’ time, or for the new calendar year.

The conversation around pay rise is only one element of an End of Financial Year performance review. Here are a number of other questions to consider before speaking with your employer:

• Evaluate your role from a business / employers’ perspective – how can you strengthen your position and offer more value to the firm?
• What skills do you want to develop: Emotional intelligence, leadership or management skills? Research courses that could progress you in these areas, for example, Lawson Delaney runs Emotional Intelligence Leadership courses (contact us to find out more).
• Why did you choose Accounting? Are you fulfilling your purpose and what you set out to achieve in the profession?
• What areas do you want to focus on – advisory, particular industries your firm work in, business development, staff management responsibilities? What would you enjoy more exposure to?
• What are your goals at your current employer? Is there anything your current firm offers that you have yet to make the most of?
• If you do want to discuss your salary, research market averages for your role type. Use our 2019 Salary Report for key insights but do remember salaries may have changed due to coronavirus economic implications.

Lawson Delaney is a leading executive search and professional recruitment firm based in Melbourne. We specialise in recruiting CEOs and leadership teams, and accountants of all seniorities for Accounting firms. Contact us on 03 9946 7300 or support@lawsondelaney.com.au to learn more about how we can assist you with a vacancy or new role today.