SCOTTSDALE, AZ – “Why did the accountant cross the road?” our MC, Stacy Shiflet of Blauch Brothers, Inc. asked our group of financial professionals. “To claim it as a travel expense,” he answered. At this point, all members of The Unified Group were not only laughing, but also eager to learn, share, and gain knowledge.
“The networking, team building and camaraderie from this group is invaluable,” Gretchen Riddle of A&G Services said.
On Wednesday, September 21, more than 20 members of The Unified Group made their way to Scottsdale, AZ, where they attended the 2022 Financial Forum. On the first day, everyone got settled into their hotel rooms and made their way to the Welcome Reception to reconnect with old friends and to greet new faces.
The next morning, members woke up full of potential and energy. Our guest speaker, Leslie Shiner of The ShinerGroup, led the morning session with topics regarding Growing Your Business Without Growing Out of Business, What is Overhead & Where is Profit, Better Job Costing and Labor Controls to Increase Profits, and many more. After a quick lunch, Shiner led the Benchmark Review and stuck around to listen to the Biggest Challenge Breakout groups and provide quality feedback. After a full day of content, members attended the Old Town Food Tour, where they had the opportunity to create valuable friendships outside of the professional setting.
“The breakout sessions enabled me to connect with others that I may not know, and the discussion was helpful to the struggles I am facing,” Cheri DeForge of VHV Company said. “It is nice to know you aren't alone!”
On Friday, September 23, more than 10 members shared presentations surrounding their best ideas/practices. One of the highest rated pieces was the Streamline Accounting and Process Improvement segment. Numerous members shared presentations on their company’s processes and what they found to have worked. Topics within this segment included PO Creation & Accuracy, Timesheet Submission & Accuracy, and Job Setup & Contracts. That night, members attended a group dinner, where they played cornhole, shared laughs, and enjoyed their last night together as a group.
Saturday, September 24 was a half day of meetings, giving attendees the rest of the day to travel home. A highlight of the final day was the best ideas shared. These topics included Modernizing our Accounts Payables Process and Changing the Focus During our WIP Meetings.
“The best parts of the conference was meeting such open and welcoming peers, having time to make new friends, and new learning about all of the resources at the same time,” Dyan Camodeca of Edwards Engineering said. “I feel rejuvenated with new ideas going back to work today.”
Overall, members of The Unified Group left that Saturday with many new ideas and friendships that will carry them further in their life. If your company is interested in learning more about membership with The Unified Group, please contact Janet Kelleher at KelleherJ@TheUnifiedGroup.com.