Soft skills can make all the difference between two equally qualified candidates applying for the same role. In a survey reported by the Society for Human Resource Management, 97% of employers stated that soft skills are either just as important or even more important than hard skills.
Qualities such as communication, critical thinking, attention to detail and more are preferable in most roles, but especially within accounting and finance. A good set of soft skills allows for you to interact with clients and colleagues in a clear-headed manner, convey complex information clearly—and diplomatically.
Whether you are seeking promotion or a new role entirely, focusing on and developing your soft skills can help employees be more well-rounded and employable professionals.
So let’s identify the top soft skills employers consider important and look for in new hires.
Soft skills are personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. Essentially, soft skills are your ability to work with people. For accounting and finance professionals, soft skills such as analytical and strategy skills, the ability to work well in teams and independently, attention to detail, accuracy, and a highly developed sense of discretion and confidentiality are indispensable
Hard skills are practical skills and specific abilities that can be easily measured by tests or training courses (e.g., accounting software). For example this could include having proficient knowledge of Excel or other programs for financial analysis.
Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in the field of accounting and finance, especially in light of the global talent shortage. According to a report by ManpowerGroup, global talent shortages are at a 16 year high, with 75% of employers worldwide struggling to find the talent they need.
In this context, possessing strong soft skills can set candidates apart from the competition. In accounting and finance, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are essential for success. Professionals in the industry must be able to effectively communicate complex financial information to clients and colleagues, work collaboratively with others on projects, and think critically to solve problems as they arise.
As the demand for talent in accounting and finance continues to rise, job seekers who possess strong soft skills as well as technical knowledge will be better positioned to succeed in this competitive industry.
Communication
Communication is arguably the most crucial soft skill that employers look for when hiring, so much so that 73.4% of employers rated communication skills as the most important attribute they look for in candidates. Being able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, is essential in building relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
Teamwork
Teamwork is another soft skill that employers value highly. The ability to work effectively with others, collaborate, and contribute to a team's success is essential in many workplaces.
Adaptability
It’s no secret that the way the world works has forever changed, and as work environments continue to evolve, adaptability is a crucial skill. Employers want employees who can adapt to new situations and technologies, learn quickly, and remain productive.
Critical and analytical thinking
By possessing strong analytical skills, job seekers can demonstrate their ability to think critically and solve problems independently, making them more attractive to potential employers. In a field where accuracy and attention to detail are paramount, analytical skills are essential for success.
When applying for new roles or promotions, it's important to showcase your soft skills along with your technical expertise. One effective way to do this is to provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated your soft skills in past roles. For example, if you are applying for a leadership position, you could highlight your experience managing a team and your ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients. Additionally, you could provide examples of times when you have successfully solved problems or worked collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal. Another way to showcase your soft skills is to highlight any relevant training or certifications you have received that demonstrate your commitment to developing these skills. By demonstrating your soft skills in your application materials and during the interview process, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job or promotion you desire.
Ultimately, technical expertise alone is no longer enough to stand out in a competitive job market. Soft skills could hold the key to success in your job search. To improve your soft skills, consider seeking out training and development opportunities, practicing self-reflection and self-awareness, and working with expert recruiters who can help you identify and develop your strengths.
At Minted Search Group, we specialize in helping job seekers showcase their soft skills and find positions that align with their career goals. By investing in your soft skills, you can set yourself apart from the competition and achieve greater success in your career.