People will usually speak-up if they are asked.

At first, they might not divulge everything that is on their mind. However, it is important to get the conversation started.

Asking once isn’t enough. Inside your CPA firm strive for a culture where asking and replying honestly is the rule of thumb, something that happens naturally.

Try this experiment. At this year’s partner retreat, your group will probably come up with a new initiative or project that you have learned at a firm association meeting or conference. The leadership group will probably discuss it, debate it and eventually agree upon a strategy. BEFORE you officially roll it out ask your team how this proposed decision by the partner group will affect them.

As you are planning your retreat, before the meeting date ask EVERYONE in the firm to submit what they think is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed by firm leadership in 2013. Just one question and encourage them to give you just one answer. If you think you will get more truthful answers, let them do it anonymously . If you want help, contact me and I’ll help you facilitate the survey.

If you identify that one big issue or new idea, ask EVERYONE in the firm to help solve the problem, initiate the new idea, or help carry through the implementation.

Give your valuable CPA firm team members some control over their own work lives.

Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.

Ambrose Bierce