looking back

Note to Self

Note to Self is a column in which CPA professionals write notes to their college-student selves to give them a glimpse of their future. In this issue, Kyle Stephens, CPA, co-founder and president of Craft Beverage Warehouse LLC, pens a letter to his younger self. Kyle attended Two Rivers High School and graduated from UW–Milwaukee with a BBA degree in accounting in 2011.

Hey Kyle,

Forget about being a lawyer. Pre-law is not an actual undergraduate degree, so you’ll actually end up studying something like English, history or philosophy. While those are all worthwhile studies, they entail a lot of reading and writing for your college years. Take a look at business schools — and consider accounting. Lots of college students hate accounting classes, but you’ll take to it quickly. You’ll realize that accounting is the language of business and that if you understand accounting, you can do anything in business.

I know I sound a bit like a boomer, but through my years of professional experience, I’ve learned a thing or two. A couple of these things are already in your blood — and if you continually work on them, you will realize your potential. Here are some things to remember:

Always work like an owner, even if you aren’t one. Your co-workers, superiors and customers will notice your commitment and realize you don’t just punch a clock at work like some others do. Finding a profession you enjoy, working hard and showing that your work means more to you than just a paycheck will advance your career more quickly and provide you with endless opportunities for personal and professional development.

Have a customer-first approach. No matter what industry you’re working in, care for the people who help your business pay the bills. This approach will turn your clients and customers into lifelong friends, future business partners and valuable references.

Enjoy the ride. Don’t get me wrong — I’m still working on this one today. As you move through your career from public accounting to being a CFO to ultimately starting your own business, more and more people will rely on you every day. That’s a lot to handle! Find the great little moments in this journey, and then take a step back and enjoy them!

Whatever you choose to do, you’ll do great if you keep those three things in mind.

Go get ‘em,

Kyle Stephens, CPA

Interested?Contact Marcia Tillett-Zinzow, editor, at mtzinzow@icloud.com.