understanding the distinct elements of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging can help create more effective and inclusive workplaces.
subscribe to 卡塔尔世界杯常规比赛时间 podcasts anywhere: apple, google, spotify, iheart, deezer, amazon music and audible, player fm, audacy, gaana (india), and boomplay (africa)..
accounting arc
with donny shimamoto
center for accounting transformation
jina etienne, cpa, cgma, cde, stands out as a beacon of change in the constantly evolving landscape of the accounting profession. as a cpa and certified diversity executive, etienne has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive cultures within accounting firms. in this accounting episode, etienne shares her journey and insights into the critical importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (deib) in the workplace.
join: july 16 free webinar, “the dei journey of accounting professionals – a research study analysis.”
more: accounting arc: what tech-savvy accountants know | accounting arc:breaking barriers – how becky dupree’s love for data analytics and her identity shaped her professional path | accounting arc: forecasting finance & the 2034 accounting landscape | accounting arc: top 10 strategies for managing growth | accounting arc: busting the big 4 myth | accounting arc: exploring ai’s role in modern accounting | accounting arc: unraveling the collapse of silicon valley bank | on a mission: introducing accounting, reaction, comedy (arc) | harper & co. cpas: the perspective of a non-accountant is imperative | menlo innovations: improve office culture by overhauling internal reviews | dustin wheeler: for serious cas success, hire tech teams | chase birky: overcoming paralysis by analysis
exclusively for pro members. log in here or 2022世界杯足球排名 today.
etienne’s career trajectory is anything but conventional. after spending over two decades in traditional cpa roles, etienne pivoted toward a focus on deib. “i still think of myself as a recovering cpa,” she quips. today, she collaborates with accounting firms to create environments where all employees feel safe and valued, with a strong emphasis on psychological safety and intentionality.
as a panelist for the july 16 free webinar, “the dei journey of accounting professionals – a research study analysis,” one of etienne’s key messages is understanding the distinct elements of deib. “diversity is about the numbers,” she explains, referring to demographic representation. equity involves providing everyone the tools and resources needed to succeed, while inclusion fosters open and respectful engagement. belonging, she notes, reflects the personal experience of each employee within the organization.
further, etienne challenges the stereotype that accountants are purely number-focused. “accounting isn’t math,” she asserts. “our work tells stories.” she illustrates this point by describing how tax returns can reveal significant personal and financial events in clients’ lives. this storytelling aspect, often overlooked, is crucial in understanding the broader impact of accounting work. “we’re not just doing numbers,” shimamoto points out. “we’re providing decision support.” etienne agrees, noting that accountants now provide comprehensive information that extends beyond financial metrics, including insights into social and environmental impacts through esg reporting.
addressing the current backlash against deib efforts, etienne acknowledges some discomfort around these discussions. “the language can feel divisive,” she admits. however, she emphasizes that the goal is to improve the experiences of all employees. “i want to know what it feels like for all of us to work here,” she says, highlighting the universal relevance of her work.
10 key takeaways
- recognizing the storytelling aspect of accounting can change the profession’s perception and highlight its broader impact.
- accountants are evolving into advisors who provide comprehensive decision support, including social and environmental insights.
- courage and innovative thinking are essential for driving transformation within the accounting profession.
- creating an environment where employees feel safe expressing their ideas and concerns fosters innovation and inclusivity.
- sharing personal stories and experiences can enhance understanding and empathy within the workplace, leading to more effective deib efforts.
- addressing deib requires a systemic approach that considers the organization’s policies, practices, and cultural norms.
- deib efforts should aim to create a positive working environment for everyone, not just minority groups, ensuring that all employees feel valued and supported.
- building strong, empathetic relationships with clients is essential for accountants to provide valuable insights and support.
- the profession continually evolves, and accountants must stay informed about new developments in areas like esg reporting and deib to remain relevant and effective.
- navigating the challenges and changes within the profession requires resilience and adaptability, qualities that are essential for long-term success.