Course Overview
This intermediate-level, two-day course offers an introduction to accounting by exploring the major groups of accounts and the financial statements that make up a company’s annual report. It also provides coverage of the financial concepts that HR professionals should understand to interact effectively with the individuals in accounting and finance departments. On the third morning, an optional certification exam covers the content of this seminar.

Who Should Attend
This course is intended for HR professionals with limited knowledge of accounting and finance who want to better understand financial statements and measures that are affected directly or indirectly by the HR function.

What You Will Learn

Introduction to Accounting

• The total rewards model
• HR -- a strategic business partner
• Governing bodies and policies
• Major groups of accounts
• Financial statements
• Accounting types
• Financial measures
• Problems with accounting
• Underlying principles
• Components of the annual report

The Balance Sheet

• Assets
• Liabilities
• Shareholders' equity
• Summary concept
• Liquidity measures
• Debt ratios

The Income Statement

• The income statement
• Revenue/sales
• Cost of goods sold
• Gross margin
• Operating expenses
• Other income and expenses
• Provision for taxes
• Extraordinary items
• Net income
• Earnings per share
• Return on sales

Statement of Cash Flows and Shareholders' Equity

• Statement of cash flows
  • Methods
  • Categories
• Statement of shareholders' equity
• Review of the four required statements

Financial Analysis

• Overview of financial measures/ratios
• Liquidity measures review
• Debt ratios review
• Profitability measures
• Funds management ratios
• Other performance measures
• Review of financial measures

Planning and Financing the Business

• Financial planning
  • Typical planning process
  • Developing business plans
  • Evaluating capital projects
• Financing the business
• Financing sources
• Long-term
• Leases
• Short-term

The Strategic Partnership -- Human Resources and Finance

• Human resources and finance
• Recording compensation and benefits costs
• Wages and salaries
• Incentive pay
• Benefits costs
• Mandatory benefits
• Welfare benefits
• Retirement plans
• Communication
• Retirement plans
• Communication