Meeting Topic Ideas

1. Emerging Technologies – Discuss an emerging technology & how it is poised to affect the profession or the industries you serve (e.g. Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Drones, etc.)
2. Cybersecurity – What are the signs of a data breach? Have you encountered system attacks? What measures do you take to protect information?
3. Cloud Computing – Describe cloud computing and how you utilize cloud technology to serve clients and provide flexibility and mobility to your employees.
4. Data: Analytics, Modeling, Structure, Visualization – What data analytics or visualization software do you use (in addition to Excel), and in what capacity? What is data modeling? How does the structure of data affect modeling? How do you handle large sets of data?
5. Negotiation Skills – What skills are necessary for negotiating salary with an employer (and when is that appropriate to discuss), or how to firms negotiate fees/services with a potential client?
6. Path to Partner – What skills are necessary to reach this level, and what do you actually do as a partner? How are partners compensated?
7. Adapting to Different Management Styles – How can intern/associate level employees smoothly transition to different managers/teams?
8. Emotional Intelligence – Studies have shown that people with high emotional intelligence have greater mental health, exemplary job performance, and more potent leadership skills. How can EI be developed?
9. Diversity and Inclusion – In the workplace there are many diverse voices. Inclusion is respecting and valuing those voices. What initiatives foster an appreciation for D&I, and how can new employees embrace them?
10. International Business Opportunities (international firms only) – What international rotations/assignments are available, and how do teams for international clients successfully work together?
11. Fraud Investigation or Forensic Accounting – How is a fraud/forensic engagement different than an audit? What skills are necessary for students wishing to pursue this path?
12. Differences in Auditing Industries – overview of the different techniques/processes involved in various audit divisions.
13. Differences in Tax Engagements (Entities & Specialty Groups) – A variety of sub-practices exist to best serve the types of clients in the market. What are the types of tax engagements and/or groups that an intern might see?
14. Changes in Audit/Tax Practices & Procedures – Highlight cutting edge technology/changes in standards/laws for auditors and tax professionals.
15. Ethical Decision Making Skills – Accountancy is based on trust. This session will distinguish one’s core values, ethical decision making.
16. IPOs or M&A – How do audit and tax teams play a role in a company doing an Initial Public Offering? How would the skills gained in audit or tax aid in an understanding of transactions such as a merger or acquisition?
17. Life Outside of Busy Season/Work-Life Balance – What happens outside the confines of a busy client workload? How can new employees balance personal and professional throughout the year?
18. Consulting or Advisory – Beyond the standard choices of audit & tax, what opportunities await accountants in Consulting/Advisory roles? What are typical engagements and requisite skills?
19. Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability – What are you doing to serve the greater good of the community, and promote sustainable operations (“future-proofing” business)?
20. Hot Topics in the Industry – What changes in the business environment are affecting the industry?