⏳This is a 3 minute read📚
Hey Fast Tracker!
We have a new streamlined format for the newsletter.
We're going to keep the newsletter to around 3 minutes of reading and include links to take you to longer-form content, like full articles, complete book summaries, podcast episodes, and more. You'll still have access to all the same stuff, but through links instead of a long newsletter.
We hope you like the new format.
Expert Insights: 💡 This is usually where I share highlights from my own podcast, FP&A Fast Track, but this week I want to share some highlights from my conversation with Chad Pyke on his podcast, The EPM Show.
Read below for key takeaways or watch the full episode here.
3 Key Takeaways
1️⃣ The Importance of Communication Skills in Career Growth: The ability to effectively communicate and influence others is paramount to career advancement. John emphasizes that prioritizing communication skills can lead to significant career benefits. This involves dedicating time to developing these skills, understanding one’s audience, and practicing in low-risk environments to build confidence and capability.
2️⃣ Reverse Engineering Career Paths: Successfully planning and achieving career goals involves reverse engineering the steps necessary to reach desired positions. John shares examples of professionals mapping out the career trajectories of successful individuals and systematically acquiring the same skills and experiences. This strategic approach can align daily activities with long-term objectives and accelerate career progression.
3️⃣ Overcoming the Curse of Knowledge: Avoid assuming that others have the same level of expertise or understanding as you do. Listen in as John and Chad discuss what happens when people use jargon or technical terms that their audience might not understand. Simplifying complex concepts for non-specialists can improve your communication and influence.
📚 Book Bites: Unlock the secrets to becoming an exceptional FP&A business partner with insights from "Value Proposition Design" by Alexander Osterwalder. This book offers a step-by-step guide to mastering customer understanding. Business acumen is a crucial skill for any FP&A professional, so the more we know about our customers, the better.
By learning to pinpoint customer and stakeholder pains, and recognize their gains, you'll be able to provide more insightful and impactful analyses. This knowledge helps you craft solutions that resonate with the business, giving you a competitive edge.
For a concise summary of this book that you can listen to in about 15 minutes, click on the button below.
💡 Fast Track Tip of the Week
Understanding Context: The Key to CLEAR Communication
Understanding context is crucial for effective communication. It’s like knowing the rules before playing a game. For example, when discussing budget reports, a department head might care about different details than a finance team member. By understanding the context, you can tailor your message to make it clear and impactful.
Context in communication means considering your audience, their knowledge level, and their concerns. It’s about setting the stage so everyone is on the same page.
Key Tips:
- Know Your Audience: Understand who you are talking to and what they need.
- Set Expectations: Clearly outline what the conversation will cover.
- Use Relevant Examples: Link your discussion points to things your audience can relate to.
Remember, context helps in making your communication clear and effective.
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A MASSIVE 50% DISCOUNT OFFER:
If you want a way to jump-start your career onto the fast track, then you NEED to sign up for my FP&A Fast Track Jump Start course waiting list. The course will probably be several hundred dollars (we haven't settled on the final pricing yet), BUT I am going to do two cool things for you:
1️⃣ I’m giving you a HUGE 50% discount from the launch price if you join the waiting list now.
2️⃣ You’re ONLY going to pay if you like it!
Yes, that’s right — you get to sign up, attend, get all of my best ideas — and if you don't love it, I will refund every penny. If you don’t like it for any reason—then you’re getting it for free.
But, only the people on the waiting list will get the discount and it costs you nothing to get on the waiting list.
Does that sound more than fair?
Cool — then click the button to get in:
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See you in the next edition.
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John Sanchez
Managing Director of FPA Group
FP&A Fast Track Podcast Host
