Granted, there is negative news out there right now. Financial markets are down, there are interest rate rises and lower trends in the housing and rental sectors.

Are we just experiencing the growing pains of a global economy and cycle? Of course we are and in times of flux or a changing economic climate, an entrepreneurial spirit can identify opportunities and thrive. While you may be working in anything but an innovative environment it’s time to take on that spirit and apply it for personal use. As economic change puts pressure on businesses it’s time you negotiate the best deal for you. Highly qualified, loyal staff are essential in times of change.

The Accounting and Human Resources fields are particularly essential. With consolidation and rationalisation seriously on the cards, it’s time for you to shine within your organisation and your industry. Rationalise your resume and consolidate your personal assets as a golden opportunity may await. Meanwhile do your daily best to make your organisation shine.

As always Cameron Recruitment are here to help with the polish!

Kindest regards,
Diane Humphries, CPA
Director | Cameron Recruitment

If you don’t ask – you don’t get

Negotiating for a pay rise, a re-structure of your role or altered working arrangements is one of the most confronting scenarios one must face in the workplace.

But in order to get what you want, you have to be prepared to ask for it. This may sound simplistic but so many employees take the passive approach and believe that if they demonstrate how hard they work by putting in extra hours or over extending themselves - their boss will justly reward them. While this does happen in some organisations offering a generous bonus system or flexible work arrangements, more often than not the only acknowledgment they receive from management is a thanks in the hallway.

Seeking a pay rise or promotion requires the ability to negotiate with management, backed up by a demonstrable skill to take on the extra responsibility. You must also be prepared to enter the subtle dance of compromise.

The best negotiators are those that come mentally prepared and present themselves from a position of strength not neediness. No matter how much you need that bonus, or additional team member or resources you must present that desire as a win/win for your boss and yourself. In doing so you feel strong in what you're doing and you feel stronger about your performance. Present your wish list as something that will empower you to raise the bar for your organisation as a whole.

Here are some tips for your negotiation armoury:

Begin by knowing your value - Objectively appraise your accomplishments, your goals and how you have executed these for your company. How has your contribution aided the company’s agenda or growth strategy? If you are new to the company - or negotiating from a contract position to full-time – how will your prior experience benefit/transform the company? Once you have qualified that, obtain as much comparative market data from industry bodies (such as The Institute of Chartered Accountants), Cameron Recruitment, employment websites and your colleagues (both male and female) on what your market rate is.
Next discern what your immediate management and senior colleagues are looking to achieve. What are their needs, concerns? Is there an area of expertise or knowledge that would help them manage better? Then you can align what your desires are with them. Present yourself as the solution to the problem that they have yet to anticipate.
Now focus on what it is you want- beyond base salary. Money is crucial but not the only factor to work fulfillment. What is important to you – flexible work hours, more holiday time or ongoing study benefits? Devise a wish list from which you can negotiate and prioritise what your breaking points are and which you would be willing to barter for.
Write down your plan. You need to explicitly articulate what it is you want and why you deserve it. This is a black and white exercise and you must leave your emotions and ego at home. In order for your negotiation to be well received it must be based on fact, predicated on the value that you’re going to bring to the company and the bottom line that you're going to effect. Also committing a plan to paper makes your intentions clear to you – you can also map out likely scenarios that will come up in the negotiation. What are you prepared to back down on and what is essential? Think through a range of possible outcomes - how would you react to a counter offer, a refusal, a left field change of role? Don’t be caught off guard!

The upside of a downturn

Recent news of the messy collapse of Opes Prime was yet another unwelcome sign of potential economic problems.

Most worrying of all is the reverberation that one company's demise can have to a raft of other businesses, individuals or an entire sector of industry. The shadow of the US, laden with its sub prime issues, does not necessarily engender optimism but in the accountancy sector at least – opportunities can bloom in a changing economic climate.

As we are witnessing in the US, the fallout from the credit crunch will inevitably result in some businesses struggling. The upshot for professionals in the accountancy sphere is that there is greater demand for insolvency and corporate restructuring services and professionals. It’s also an opportunistic time for accountants specialising in mergers and acquisitions. Sydney’s big end of town was buzzing with calls from M&A experts as soon as the Opes Prime debacle hit the market, all looking to get a piece of the action by structuring fire sales or introducing potential clients interested in distressed assets.

Forewarned is forearmed

But not all the action is limited to the CBD. In times of financial uncertainty it is prudent for any professional accountant or Financial Controller to make sure that the books are in order. An economic shift often opens doors for consolidations, mergers or acquisitions.

With M&A activity at a recent high an offer that your company may not be able to refuse could land on your table. So whether at the acquirer or acquiree end of the discussion it’s a golden time to evaluate and rationalise processes, spring clean methods that are not working and revitalise strategies that are. While you’re at it – give that resume a little dusting off too.

While you may be in love with your current position, a market in flux and consolidation mode also means that the executive revolving door may be in full swing. That promotion you always wanted may be just around the corner or even just across the negotiation table.

HOT JOBS

Systems Accountant/Consultant

Work in the entertainment industry
6 month contract role
Negotiable rates for right candidate

This Australian headquartered, leading entertainment industry player is poised to embark on a major project and needs an experienced systems accountant to project manage a payroll system upgrade. Reporting to the Finance Director, the newly created role is pivotal to ensure the success of the systems enhancements.

Only senior applicants should apply with systems implementation ⁄ upgrade experience a necessary requirement. Superior project management skills and effective communication skills are also essential. Knowledge of Sun systems is an advantage but not essential. Part-time applicants of a high calibre will also be considered.

If you are interested in the position of
Systems Accountant/Consultant - please contact us

Chartered Accountants - Auditors

Multinational client base
Report to senior partner
Opportunities at all levels

A number or roles at varying experience levels exist at this professional practice that has a client base of large and diverse multinational clients.Excellent growth opportunities working with leading clients and reporting directly to the practice Partners. Ideal candidates will have a strong auditing background, ICAA qualifications or studying towards gaining ICAA recognition.

If you are interested in the position of
Chartered Accountants - Auditors - please contact us

Remember to look out for our latest job offerings at anytime on our website or contact us on 02 9955 0559

Events – new to Cameron Recruitment website

Please take a look at our event diary for 2008 at www.cameronrecruitment.com.au

We will constantly update this calendar with new seminars and events. You can register on line to a variety of topics including:

Interview techniques to secure that next job
Improving resume preparation
Career advice for accountants
Occupational Health & Safety – National changes