"Our Mission at Guiding Light CFO is to eradicate small business failure by offering expert financial strategies that help your business thrive."
Alright, alright, alright (channeling my inner McConaughey)... Welcome to Part Three! If you're just joining, grab a comfy seat because we're diving into a pivotal chapter of my journey: the year I spent as a 3rd shift night auditor at a four-star hotel. It’s a time that taught me invaluable business lessons—think teamwork, leadership, and navigating the occasional tech hiccup.
Let's rewind to the days of dim lobby lights and the hum of a quiet hotel night. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, I'd slip into my suit, ready to tackle the nightly audit. This wasn't just about crunching numbers; it was a crash course in real-world business skills. And yes, it was just as glamorous as it sounds (if you consider wrestling with accounting software glamorous).
The Night Audit: More Than Just Numbers
You might wonder, what exactly does a night auditor do? Picture this: it's quiet, the guests are asleep, and it's the perfect time to balance the books. My job? Ensuring the day's financial transactions matched up, from room charges to restaurant bills. It was a bit like being the backstage crew at a concert—making sure everything runs smoothly so the performers (the hotel staff) can shine.
But here's the kicker: working the night shift isn't just about numbers. It’s about solving problems when things go wrong (and trust me, they do). Whether it was a system glitch or an unhappy guest, I had to think on my feet. The ability to troubleshoot was a skill that served me well later, especially when advising small business owners facing their own set of challenges.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
One of the most significant takeaways from that year? Teamwork. Working with a skeleton crew meant that each of us had to wear multiple hats. There was no “That’s not my job” attitude—everyone pitched in, from the front desk to housekeeping. This experience underscored the importance of collaboration and clear communication, especially when the stakes are high.
In the quiet hours, there was an unspoken bond among the night shift team. We relied on each other, knowing that our collective efforts would make or break the night. It was a lesson in leadership, not just in managing others but in leading by example. Being dependable and earning the trust of my colleagues and superiors became second nature.
Mastering the Art of Operating Systems
Now, let's talk tech. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of using an outdated operating system, you know the struggle. The hotel's system was no exception. Navigating it was like trying to play a video game on "expert" mode. Yet, this challenge turned into an opportunity. I learned the ins and outs of the software, becoming the go-to person for troubleshooting. This experience was invaluable, teaching me how to approach unfamiliar systems with confidence—a skill that’s crucial when implementing new technology in businesses.
Trust: The Cornerstone of Success
Perhaps the most unexpected lesson from my time as a night auditor was the importance of trust. Not just in the team, but also with the guests and management. Earning trust is a slow process, built through consistency and reliability. For me, it was about being meticulous with the audit and handling issues discreetly and efficiently.
This trust extended beyond the job itself. It was the foundation for building relationships with guests, who often had unique requests or problems. By the end of the year, I had learned how to listen actively and respond with empathy—a skill that's crucial when advising clients today. After all, understanding a business owner’s challenges requires more than just number-crunching; it demands a genuine connection and a willingness to listen.
Bringing It All Together
So, why am I sharing this story? Because the skills I honed during that year are the same ones I use today as a Small Business CFO Advisor. From managing a team to troubleshooting tech issues, these experiences have shaped my approach to business consulting. And while I may no longer be working the night shift, the lessons learned during those quiet hours have had a lasting impact.
Remember this: whether you're working the night shift at a hotel or running your own business, the key to success lies in adaptability, teamwork, and earning trust. It's these principles that turn challenges into opportunities and lay the groundwork for lasting success.
Stay tuned for more insights and stories on the journey from night auditor to. Until then, keep hustling and remember, every experience—no matter how unexpected—can be a stepping stone to greatness.
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