People from around the world are choosing the CGMA Finance Leadership Program (FLP) to fast-track their careers and gain essential skills for becoming a future business leader.
Richmond Adu Addo began the CGMA FLP at the same time he was pursuing the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana certification, which is quite a feat.
The CGMA FLP is a guided, digital-first learning and assessment tool that you can access from anywhere with an internet connection.
Richmond says he appreciated the CGMA FLP platform because it allowed him to learn at his own pace.
‘The platform offers interactive courses, videos, podcasts, quizzes, case studies, simulations and covers all the core topics of the CGMA syllabus’, he said.
Here are Addo's top tips for anyone considering earning the CGMA designation.
Focus on building essential skills.
Addo recommends looking at the bigger picture and not simply worrying about passing the exams.
‘The skills and knowledge gained from the [CGMA FLP] competencies have helped me in so many ways,’ he said. ‘I have developed a range of skills that are essential for every business professional, such as analytical thinking, problem solving, communication, leadership and adapting to changing business environments.’
The CGMA syllabus was crafted to build skills sought by organisations around the world, shaping you to become an ideal business leader.
Lean on your network for support.
As mentioned, Addo was studying the CGMA FLP while also pursuing the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana certification and working as a tax associate, so he appreciated the support of mentors and a community of peers through the Facebook group.
‘You can easily get feedback and guidance from expert tutors and mentors’, he said. ‘The platform also enables us to connect to other learners and share insights, so I can network with people in Asia and Europe.’
He added that one of the main perks of pursuing the CGMA designation is joining a global community of accounting and finance professionals.
‘It hasn’t been easy, but I’ll say it’s worth it’, he said. ‘It has opened so many opportunities for career advancement and personal growth, and I would say I’m very proud to be part of the CIMA community.’
Practice, practice, practice.
One of Addo’s tips for CGMA candidates is the three Ps: Practice, practice, practice.
‘You need to practice as much as you can’, he said. ‘The exams are designed to test your ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios, so in order to improve your exam performance you need to practice with mock exams.’
Mock exams teach you the format and allow you to flex your muscles as you practice by applying your knowledge to the task or question set. Before taking the real exam, you can build on your strengths and address your weaknesses in direct response to examiner feedback.
Keep your eye on the goal.
The CGMA FLP is challenging, but Addo knows ‘It’s a rewarding journey that will open up many opportunities for you in your career and personal development.’
Addo offers a note of encouragement: ‘You should also celebrate your achievement for how far you’ve come, learn from your mistakes, keep your eye on the goal, and remember that you are not alone in this journey because you have support from the CIMA community.’
Enjoy more of Addo’s experience by listening to the full CGMA Success Stories podcast episode (27- minute listen). And when you’re inspired to start your journey towards earning CGMA designation, consider the CGMA Finance Leadership Program.
