There is a growing movement in the accounting industry towards new services and cloud-based tools, in large part due to the talent shortage crisis being felt across the US and Canada.

The number of US accountants decreased by around 17% in the last couple of years, and this talent shortage crisis is causing pressure to evolve the role of the modern accountant. For firms to stay competitive to prospective employees, they need to go beyond adopting cloud technology and offer meaningful roles and career growth using a mix of innovative tools.

As this is an industry-wide challenge, we believe the greatest impact in solving it will come from collaboration. So we’re launching Xero Mentor Match, a peer-to-peer mentoring initiative for Xero’s US and Canadian accounting and bookkeeping partners. 

The program offers a platform for accountants and bookkeepers to connect to others, whether it’s to educate and inspire their peers, or to learn from industry-leading role models who represent what it means to be an advisor today.

How Mentor Match works

Xero has partnered with Mentorloop – which provides mentoring software to organizations worldwide – to bring the Mentor Match program to life. It uses a unique algorithm to analyze cohorts and create equitable, peer-to-peer connections. This means mentors and mentees are matched according to their complementary interests, skills and goals. 

Who Mentor Match is for

Mentor Match is for all Xero partners (anyone who works in an accounting or bookkeeping firm that is part of the Xero partner program), from practice owners and decision-makers through to undergraduates and interns. Regardless of your age, experience or skill level, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from the industry’s brightest minds, or inspire – and be inspired by – the next generation of talent.

Match with the industry’s best

Mentor Match has launched with some of the industry’s best already on board. Anyone who joins the program has a chance to be matched with mentors from the Xero Partner Advisory Council, Xero ambassadors and some influential names in the accounting and bookkeeping community.

“Being a part of the Xero partner program transformed my solo venture into a thriving business fueled by a community that supports growth and innovation. As a firm believer that we all have something to teach and to learn, I am excited to be a part of Xero’s Mentor Match program. Sharing experiences, exchanging knowledge, and embracing fresh perspectives builds a stronger community that enriches us all.”

– Dawn Hatch
Founding Partner, Matax

Are you ready to meet your match?

If you’re looking to shape your career or help others shape what it means to be an accountant or bookkeeper today, Mentor Match is the program for you. Head to Xero Mentor Match for US and Canada partners to learn more, and sign up to become a mentor, mentee, or both in just a few minutes. 

Let the matchmaking begin!

The post Introducing Xero Mentor Match: A mentoring program for industry partners appeared first on Xero Blog.