The value of stay interviews; also, are business cards becoming extinct?

·22 min·2 clips

John Garrett, the CPA-comedian, reveals why valuing workers beyond their technical skills transforms engagement and retention in accounting firms.

Neil Amato hosts repeat guests John Garrett and April Walker on the Journal of Accountancy podcast. The episode opens with introductions highlighting John Garrett's background as a CPA and comedian now focusing on organizational culture. The first major theme addresses how accounting professionals can bring their 'whole selves' to work, especially in remote settings. John argues that firms often overvalue technical skills while ignoring personal passions, suggesting activities like virtual show-and-tell to build connections. April Walker shares her experience implementing icebreaker questions on team calls to learn about colleagues' outside interests. The discussion shifts to advice for independent CPA firms facing consolidation pressures. John Garrett encourages these firms to lean into their independence and create distinctive cultures rather than mimicking larger competitors. He stresses the importance of being intentional about which clients and talent they serve. April Walker relates this to her 'Reimagining Your Tax Practice' series, noting firms don't have to follow traditional models. The concept of 'stay interviews' is introduced as a tool for improving employee retention by asking why they remain with the firm. John explains these interviews can reveal what the firm does well and provide development opportunities. The conversation takes a lighter turn when Neil Amato asks about John's old business card featuring a green apple on his head, leading to a debate about whether business cards are becoming obsolete. Guests mention alternatives like LinkedIn, conference apps, and QR codes. John closes with a message about valuing oneself and others, citing a Johns Hopkins study that 40 seconds of genuine daily interaction increases belonging. The episode ends with thanks and show notes references.

As heard by us

A clear look at how independent firm leaders signal culture and identity to talent.

Journal of Accountancy's podcast conversation lands on a familiar but useful point: firms that want to stay independent need to build the kind of shop they actually want, not a smaller copy of someone else's. Garrett's point about candidates reading culture quickly feels right.

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Why you'd press play

Press play if you want a grounded take on how an independent accounting firm can make culture and people choices feel intentional.

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