Entering a positive work culture | Business Perspective
A Q&A with Paige Batcha, CPA, MBA, former CFO and current Vice President of Finance and Accounting Interim Solutions at Versique Search & Consulting
| April/May 2023 Footnote
Editor's note: Updated March 29, 2023
What does culture mean to you?
It feels like culture is the new buzzword across organizations. For me, it is far from a buzzword. Culture is the lifeblood of an organization, which extends all the way to every employee from the workplace to their personal lives. I truly believe a positive culture reflects positively within an employee’s personal life. The impact a workplace culture can have on a person’s life should not be taken lightly, thus I don’t believe the term should be taken lightly. I would love to see this word be a constant reference and check-in rather than a buzzword. Culture evolves with an organization and should be litmus tested with touchpoints with all employees across all levels.
Describe your previous roles and how COVID impacted you?
In short, I was on edge. I was aggressive and dismissive. I was not as present for my husband or children, and I was not the person I wanted to be. It took me having a breaking point and I knew — and wanted — to make a dramatic change. During the pandemic, like many, I did soul searching. I wrote a list of what I wanted to pursue in my next role, as well as included items I wished to not repeat. I noted very high on my list of desires was a support environment where I would be consistently challenged and constantly uncomfortable. It was important for me to feel connected and supported in my most vulnerable moments.
How did you feel leaving your previous position and joining Versique?
Initially, I feared the unknown. I felt vulnerable and confused as I was venturing into a brand new industry and building a practice from the ground up. I kept reminding myself why I was taking this leap. The “why” has fueled my every day. I have never felt more connected with my colleagues and with my internal passion. And, honestly, showing up as my true and authentic self each day is seamless and non-exhausting.
How do you feel today?
Simply put, I feel whole. At Versique, we believe it is the “people who make it possible” and if your people are not happy, how can you make the organization possible? I am constantly sharing my story — and the story of Versique — and the underlying “why” resonates with people. I am making small, positive impacts on lives and it feels fulfilling and purposeful.
Can you describe the support of the vulnerability and the rise of the confidence in yourself?
The power of positivity is real, and it can be life changing. I share my journey hoping it inspires others to continue the search for a positive culture to immerse themselves in, or in hopes it inspires leaders to prioritize fostering a positive culture for them and their colleagues alike. The ability to show up as my authentic self each day is incredible.
How do you feel the role of interim/consulting opportunities has changed since COVID?
Similar to myself, individuals are seeking opportunities granting purpose and giving the ability to feel whole. The flexibility of consulting is a great avenue to accomplish both purpose and wholeness.
Versique Search & Consulting
Contact: Paige F. Batcha, CPA, Vice President, Finance & Accounting Interim Solutions
Email: pbatcha@versique.com
Phone: 952-767-1122 |
Web: versique.com
