We've all been there. It's mid-December, you’re sipping on a nutmeg latte, and it hits you – you've still got 10 hours of CPD to do. Suddenly, you’re rushing to your laptop, frantically Googling, and opening a million tabs to try and tick those boxes before the year ends.
But what if there was a way to cheat the system? Here's a (totally not serious) guide to cutting CPD corners – and why it’s much smarter to do it the right way.
Step 1: Rebrand your timeline as "learning”
Did you skim a newsletter about accounting tech back in March? That counts as technical knowledge, right? Or what about that LinkedIn post about using AI in financial reporting – surely that’s worth an hour or two of CPD?
Why it doesn’t work: CPD is about measurable learning that enhances your skills. A quick scroll on social media might be informative, but it’s not going to fully prepare you for new audit regulations or the ethical challenges of AI.
What we provide: Our courses cover every area of accounting and are built to keep you engaged, with a blend of articles, videos, case studies, quizzes, and discussions – all designed to help you actually retain what you learn.
Step 2: Watch a webinar at double speed
Webinars are a lifesaver for CPD… until you’re trying to get it all in before the turkey’s cooked. Just set the playback speed to 2x, tune out the details, and voilà – done in half the time!
Why it doesn’t work: Sure, you’ll rack up the hours, but will you really absorb the content? Effective CPD isn’t about the time you clock up, it’s about gaining insights you can apply to your work.
What we provide: A webinar is part of a healthy CPD diet, but it shouldn’t be all of it! With our Annual Licence, we do a live webinar each month (ask questions, interact, get involved!), plus hundreds of other CPD resources including 15-minute bites, in-depth courses, and more. It’s a flexible, balanced way to keep your CPD varied and valuable.
Step 3: Borrow someone else’s notes
Got a colleague who’s a CPD superstar? Brilliant. Just borrow their notes, skim through them, and call it a day. Who needs personal reflection or engagement when you’ve got pre-prepped answers?
Why it doesn’t work: Your CPD plan should be tailored to your own professional needs and goals, not someone else’s. If you work as an auditor, your friend in tax isn’t going to have much to teach you.
What we provide: Not a big planner? Let your CPD do the work for you. Our Accountants Update Programmes deliver a curated mix of content each month, so you stay informed all year.
Step 4: Wait until December and do it all in one weekend
Who says you can’t binge CPD like it’s the latest Netflix series? Sure, your pals might all be watching White Lotus, but what’s wrong with a bumper webinar sesh? Grab some coffee, block out a weekend, and power through.
Why it doesn’t work: Rushed CPD doesn’t stick. You’ll miss out on meaningful reflection, skill development, and opportunities to stay ahead of trends throughout the year.
What we provide: Don’t rush it. Work towards a career goal, become a specialist, and earn a Certificate of Achievement for your CV with a Career Progression Pathway. Each one gives you a structured route through relevant CPD on the specialism of your choice, helping you build expertise and move your career forward with purpose.
Work smarter, not harder
If you really want to "cheat” your CPD, here’s the secret – plan ahead. By breaking your CPD into small, manageable chunks throughout the year, you can:
- 😌 Avoid the stress of cramming
- 🎯 Focus on topics that genuinely enhance your career
- 🌿 Actually retain the information and grow as an accountant
- 📈 Stay on top of trends like AI, sustainability, and the latest standards
So, don’t end up with the last-minute zoomies. Plan your CPD now and set yourself up for a productive, stress-free year ahead. Your December self will thank you.
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