Part 1: An Intern’s Point of View: 7 Things You Need to Know about HORNE

In September of 2014, I was under the impression that just about every accounting firm was the same, except that some were just larger than others. That completely changed nine months later when I began interning at HORNE. During my internship, I have learned a lot about accounting, but I’ve also learned a lot about culture and what makes one firm different from another. In particular, I’ve learned what makes HORNE so different from other public accounting firms.

What I’ve experienced has changed my viewpoint on what the accounting industry looks like. In this two part series, I want to share with you the seven differences I’ve experienced while being at HORNE. Starting with the first four.

1. HORNE Sees People as Individuals
   When I began at HORNE, I was one of about 25 new interns going through the initial training. I assumed this would mean I had a great potential of “falling through the cracks” and getting lost in the small sea of people. My assumption could not have been further from the truth. Almost every speaker that came to teach us asked each of our names and in what focus area we would be interning. They all genuinely wanted to get to know us personally and not simply as “interns.”  This individualization has continued since then in a way very different from what I’ve seen before. HORNE is focused on creating a genuine sense of belonging for all team members for the entire time they are at HORNE. It’s not something they only talk about, it’s a mindset they have put into practice and it makes a huge difference in the atmosphere.
 
2. HORNE is Committed to Growth
   I’ve only been at HORNE for about eight weeks and I can already attest to how much they strive to see their people grow and achieve bigger and better things. The whole beBetter philosophy is designed to inspire people to do more than what is required of them. It is about a new level of excellence that comes from having the support of your coworkers and superiors. My direct supervisor has challenged me since the first day. He placed me in a new area so that I could learn as much as possible and gain experience that I would not have the chance to get anywhere else. He has put me in the position to beBetter and has taught and encouraged me along the way.
 
3. HORNE has a Solid Foundation
   HORNE’s foundation is based on the Biblical parable about the wise man who built his house on rock versus the foolish man who built his house on sand. I couldn’t imagine a better foundation for a company. The principle that the wise man (or firm) is concerned first and foremost with the foundation upon which he builds his house, is one that HORNE holds on to tightly. This is evident in the way they lead and grow. Decisions are made based on alignment with the firm’s core values. Values such as: God, family, personal development, positive attitudes, gratitude, serving a higher calling than self and exceeding expectations. If a new venture doesn’t promote “we and service,” then it’s not the right decision for the firm.
 
4. HORNE Doesn’t Go Back
   With the firm’s foundation and dedication to growth, HORNE is constantly trying new things and finding opportunities. Part of being wise is having the ability to learn from your past and not revert to those unsuccessful patterns. At HORNE, people who are open to failing in an effort to learn and succeed are valued. Yes, it’s acceptable to make mistakes, in fact, it’s expected. But they try to keep from making the same mistake twice. It’s about learning and having the courage to try again. Mistakes can make you better. That plays a crucial role in each team member’s personal development and the firm’s growth.

Stay tuned for the last three differences I’ve experienced while being at HORNE coming next week.

About the Author
Megan Hudson is an intern who changed her mind about what it means to work at a regional firm.  She has accepted a full time offer with HORNE and will begin her part of building the Wise Firm in the fall.