Presenting the 2008 '40 Under 40 '

From the Oct. 2008 Issue

For even more about these young professionals and to get tips from their more seasoned peers, a special eBook supplement will be available online by October 17, 2008, at www.cpatechadvisor.com/40under40/2008ebook. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the delay in having this eBook available.

(Click here to see this year's '40 Under 40'.)

I started using computers in 1962. That calculates to 46 years of computing experience and identifies that I used computers before the “under 40s” were born, which would include all of the individuals who are featured in this year’s class of The CPA Technology Advisor’s 40 Under 40.

The years do not make me better or worse; they simply make my experiences different. I have firsthand knowledge of punch cards and wiring circuit boards, and a time when mainframes were the only computing choice available. Since my early days, lots of technology and accessories have dramatically changed what we do and how we do it: minicomputers, microcomputers, personal computers, handhelds, cellular phones, smart phones, the Internet, cable TV, wireless networks, Apple, Microsoft, Google and Starbucks.

With deep respect for the intelligence, capacity and accomplishments for those under the age of 40, I offer a few thoughts based on the following question:

What would I do today if I were under the age of 40 and know what I know now?

The Past Is Prologue
The past provides history lessons for what needs to be known today. Study the collection of data and facts and opinions for what needs to be created for tomorrow. Repetition of bad things expecting different results does not work. Correcting the bad with new ideas creates an opportunity for success.

Write To Be Read, Talk To Be Heard
Word processing handles spell checking, formatting, duplicate copies and thousands of font styles. You need to focus upon the content of the e-mails, reports, presentations, telephone conversations, etc. Complete and clear is essential for every receiver. It is not what is written or said, it is what is read and heard that is important.

Know When To Hold 'em & Know When To Fold 'em
Technology requires frequent assessments that are often confused by the emotional pull of the new, the sexy and the visually gorgeous. Knowing how and when to make the decisions to change technology means doing evaluations and analyses that effectively measure the impact of that change on dollars, resources and people. Overanalyzing the issues can delay progress, cause missed revenue opportunities and run the risk of old technology wearing out. The key is to make good decisions that turn into right results.

Drink Your Own Magic Water
As a competent technology advisor, you tell clients to backup data files, implement security procedures and handle technology with care. You need to do the same for all of your own computing. Passwords, security measures and hardware maintenance are not just for your clients. In this case, leading by example is a very good idea.

The World Is Wide, Not Narrow
A global economy dictates that both the nearby and the far away contribute to how you can achieve better results faster. This includes building relationships across a wide spectrum of personal and business connections. Effective relationships require nurturing and encouragement. Send greetings even when you do not need something.

Use Both Sides Of Your Brain
The left side is the analytical; the right side focuses on the creative. You need to call upon both hemispheres. Being visual and creative helps you to be a better communicator as a picture is worth a thousand words … or more. Spreadsheets are terrific tools that require careful detail planning, proven accuracy and readability. Converting rows and columns into graphical displays calls upon both sides of your brain.