We are absolutely thrilled to share the incredible experience Heather and Liz had at the Bridging the Gap (BTG) Conference in Chicago. This was the first time sponsoring an event, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of amazing.
We were honored to join forces with Randy Crabtree from Tri-Merit, who hosted this phenomenal event. The BTG Conference is not your typical gathering; it goes beyond technical expertise and dives deep into the heart of what makes our profession truly special: the people.
A Focus on Humanity
One of the standout aspects of BTG is its focus on humanity. Every session was centered around treating each other with kindness, building a supportive culture, and addressing the human side of being an accountant. This emphasis on mental health and burnout prevention resonated deeply with us.
Randy Crabtree’s dedication to creating a people-centric community shines through in every detail. It’s clear that his passion for mental health and community building is at the core of this event. The atmosphere was electric with collaboration and support, making it an experience we’ll never forget.
Community and Collaboration
The conference wasn’t just about learning new skills; it was about building a community. We met so many incredible people, and the energy of collaboration was palpable. Randy’s vision of bringing people together to work, learn, and support each other truly came to life.
Our team was constantly amazed by the seamless organization and the warmth of everyone involved. A special shout-out to Crystal and the rest of Randy’s team for making us feel so welcome and taken care of.
The Importance of Mental Wellness
A major highlight was discussing the importance of mental wellness in our profession. We shared preliminary results of a satisfaction survey, revealing that middle-aged professionals in midsize firms are most at risk for dissatisfaction. This insight is crucial as we look for ways to improve our industry and support those at risk of burnout.
We also explored how empathy plays a role in our daily work. As accountants, we often take on the stress of our clients, which can lead to our own burnout. Acknowledging this and finding ways to support each other is vital for our community’s well-being.
Technology and Change
The BTG Conference also highlighted the changing landscape of our profession. Technology is transforming how we deliver services and the value we provide to clients. This is the perfect time to redefine who we are and what we bring to the table.
We’re at a pivotal moment where we can change the narrative about accountants and our role in business. By embracing change and focusing on our mental health and well-being, we can continue to thrive in this dynamic industry.
Looking Ahead
As we wrapped up our time at the BTG Conference, we left feeling inspired and motivated. The connections we made and the insights we gained are invaluable. We’re excited to continue this journey of building a supportive, innovative, and thriving accounting community.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible and to all the amazing professionals we met along the way. We’re already looking forward to next year’s conference!
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Appy Hour and remember to take care of yourself and each other.