The 5-Step CFO Meeting Checklist We Use Every Time

Great financial meetings aren’t about cramming in data—they’re about clarity, alignment, and next steps. Here’s the 5-step checklist we use with every client to make sure our CFO meetings are consistently valuable. Feel free to borrow it for your own team!

1. Wins

Start positive. Ask everyone to share a recent win or something they’re grateful for. It sets the tone and reminds us progress is happening.

2. Accountability

Review outstanding action items from the last meeting. What got done? What didn’t? No blame—just clarity and follow-through.

3. Top of Mind

What’s the most important issue today—financial or not? Surface the real concerns early so you can tackle what matters most.

4. Financial Review

Go over the Balance Sheet, P&L, Cash Flow Forecast, and KPIs. Can you clearly see where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re going?

5. Action Items

End with clear next steps. Who’s doing what, by when, and how will success be measured? Don’t let a great meeting turn into vague intentions.

Why It Works

This framework keeps meetings focused, collaborative, and impactful. It ensures no one walks away wondering what just happened—or what’s supposed to happen next.

Want help leading better financial meetings?

That’s what we do. Our fractional CFOs help business owners gain clarity, grow profits, and build a business that runs with confidence.

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