How to Build Support and Buy-in from Business Users for Bots and AI in Accounting

In today’s fast-evolving accounting landscape, Bots and AI have become more than just buzzwords — they’re powerful tools that can drive efficiency, accuracy, and innovation in accounting practices. 

As bookkeepers and accountants, you’re likely aware of the immense potential these technologies hold. With senior leadership already on board, the next crucial step is gaining support and buy-in from the broader business team, including department heads, managers, and front-line employees. Their support is essential for the successful deployment and adoption of Bots and AI technologies.

Getting the right buy in and support

Contents

The Importance of Building a Coalition of Support

The journey toward integrating Bots and AI is not just a technological one; it’s a cultural transformation. According to a McKinsey study, 70% of transformation projects fail, often due to a lack of employee buy-in. To avoid becoming part of this statistic, it’s vital to engage and align all key stakeholders early in the process. Building a coalition of support ensures that when the time comes to implement these technologies, you have a strong foundation of advocates who understand the benefits and are eager to participate.

It’s also vital to root-out any pockets of resistance, especially of the “passive” kind, where you can lose the most time, momentum and credibility if not careful.

Identifying Key Stakeholders and Influencers

Department Heads and Managers:

These individuals often hold sway over their teams and can influence how new technologies are perceived and adopted. They are key to understanding the unique challenges each department faces and how Bots and AI could address them.

Front-Line Employees:

These are the people who will interact directly with the Bots and AI solutions. Their day-to-day experiences will shape the overall success of the implementation. Ensuring their voices are heard and concerns are addressed is crucial for smooth adoption.

Strategies for Gaining Buy-In

1. Communicate the Vision Clearly

Start with your “Why”. Clearly articulate the reasons behind adopting Bots and AI. Focus on how these technologies can reduce manual workload, minimise errors, and allow employees to focus on higher-value tasks. Use real-world examples and case studies to demonstrate tangible benefits.

2. Involve Stakeholders Early

Involve key stakeholders in the planning stages. Create cross-functional teams that include representatives from different departments. By giving them a seat at the table, you empower them to be part of the decision-making process, which increases their investment in the outcome.

3. Address Fears and Misconceptions

Bots and AI can sometimes be met with resistance, primarily due to fear of job displacement or the complexity of new systems. Address these concerns head-on by providing transparent information about how these technologies will complement rather than replace human roles. Offer training programs to upskill employees, making them feel secure and valued.

4. Leverage the Power of Influencers

Every organisation has informal influencers — those who, while not in formal leadership positions, have the ear of their peers. Identify these individuals and involve them in pilot programs or early adoption phases. Their positive experiences and endorsements can significantly sway broader employee opinion.

5. Use Psychology to Foster Engagement

Tap into psychological principles like social proof and reciprocity. Highlight success stories from other departments or similar businesses where Bots and AI have led to measurable improvements. Share testimonials and case studies to build a sense of momentum and shared purpose.

Additionally, create opportunities for employees to contribute their ideas or feedback, and be sure to acknowledge and act on it. This fosters a sense of ownership and reciprocity, making employees more likely to support the initiative.

6. Show Quick Wins

Demonstrating early successes can be a powerful motivator. Focus on implementing Bots and AI in areas where it can deliver quick and visible results. This could be in automating repetitive data entry tasks or improving financial forecasting accuracy. Quick wins help build credibility and show the practical benefits of the technology.

getting the right buy in and support

Demonstrating Widespread Support to Senior Leadership

Once you’ve built a coalition of support, it’s essential to demonstrate this to senior leadership. This can be done through:

1. Surveys and Feedback:

Regularly collect feedback from employees and stakeholders. Surveys can help you gauge the level of support and identify any lingering concerns. Use this data to show senior leadership that the initiative has widespread backing.

2. Success Metrics:

Present tangible metrics from pilot programs or early implementations. This could include time saved, error reduction, or improved employee satisfaction scores. Showing data-driven results strengthens the case for broader implementation.

3. Testimonials and Case Studies:

Gather and present testimonials from department heads, managers, and employees who have benefitted from Bots and AI. Personal stories can be compelling in illustrating the human impact of these technologies.

Conclusion: The Path to Success

Gaining support and buy-in for Bots and AI is not just about implementing new technology; it’s about fostering a cultural shift within your practice. By engaging with key stakeholders, addressing concerns, and demonstrating the tangible benefits of these technologies, you can build a strong coalition that ensures successful adoption. Remember, the more comprehensive and inclusive your approach, the more likely it is that Bots and AI will be embraced, leading to a more innovative and efficient accounting practice.

By laying this groundwork, you not only demonstrate widespread support to senior leadership but also set the stage for a smoother, more successful implementation of Bots and AI within your accounting practice.