Your Career in Finance 10 Skills That Really Count

Your Career in Finance 10 Skills That Really CountYour Career in Finance - 10 Skills That Really CountIts no secret that carving out a high-flying career in finance hinges on more than good grades.Whether youre just starting out or youre an executive with decades of experience, can you recall what led you to this career choice?In todays fast-evolving workplace, accounting and finance professionals must demonstrate everything from razor-sharp analytical ability and stellar soft skills, to a sharp understanding of industry-standard software.So, how do you know whether your resume will reach the top of the pile or is destined to fall short? Here are 10 finance must-haves that will put you in prime lage for a promising career in finance.1. Training and educationIn some industries, sparkling talent combined with real-world experience is enough to land your dream job.But for a career in finance, a sector ruled by rigorous processes and standards as well as commercial best practices, a gl owing resume simply isnt enough.Successful candidates must have the necessary education, training and financial certifications to back-up any work experience they have.SEND US YOUR RESUME2. Interpersonal skillsThere once was a time when finance professionals were bound to cubicles, but that era is long gone.These days, any perception that a career in finance involves simply crunching numbers has been replaced by the reality that positions require workers to deal with clients and workplace teams every day.For accounting and finance professionals, the ability to build successful relationships is critical for success. When looking at two equally qualified hires, interpersonal skills are often the point of difference.3. Ability to communicateFor aspiring accounting and finance workers, strong oral and written communication skills are important, but its just as imperative to be able to explain financial jargon in simple terms.Many companies choose candidates who can make complex industry language clear to clients and workers in other departments who have limited finance knowledge, as opposed to potential hires who simply regurgitate what theyve learned.4. Aptitude for financial reportingFinancial candidates looking for a competitive edge would be wise to demonstrate a proficiency in financial reporting at their next job interview.Financial reporting is the process of preparing documentation that discloses a companys financial position to management, investors and the government. The skills involved in financial reporting are in demand in todays workplaces, and the salary levels reflect it. According to the 2019 Salary Guide for Accounting and Finance, the midpoint starting salary for an accountant working in financial reporting with one to three years of experience is $71,750, and a financial reporting manager can expect a midpoint salary of $112,7500.Are you looking to hire a financial professional for your organization?TELL US YOUR HIRING NEEDS5. Analytical know- howCompanies are looking to hire employees who have the ability to analyze scenarios and draw suitable conclusions. The trend toward a more strategic and analytic finance function requires skills involving strategic thinking, big data, information technology, collaboration and leadership, with real-world examples and performance-driven results.For those who acquire and maintain the top financial analyst skills, theres an abundance of opportunities for employment and professional growth.6. Problem-solving skillsThese days, it isnt enough to have a solid knowledge of systems and processes. Its also essential to be able to tackle complex problems as they arise.Whether its addressing the financial implications of a complicated business structure or coming up with a personalized solution for a clients tax dilemma, a record of solving problems will see your career grow in leaps and bounds.7. Knowledge of IT softwareThe increased focus on digitization and automation has encouraged more hir ing managers to look for financial professionals with the right IT skills to leverage new financial systems.Candidates who can demonstrate knowledge and competency in predictive analytics, accounts payable automation, SAP accounting software or Oracle will find themselves in demand.8. Management experienceAlthough its not essential, management experience is often highly desirable for employers looking to hire a financial professional for a new role.If youve proven your ability to manage teams during your career, youre bound to excel in a leadership position in the future.SEARCH OUR JOBS9. Business savvyIts important for financial professionals to understand the relationship between a companys fiscal behavior and marketplace demands.Candidates who can exercise an understanding of the business world as well as an interest in the trends shaping the industry are well-placed to get ahead in the years top finance jobs.10. Capacity for innovationFinance and accounting may be associated wit h routines and systems, but that doesnt mean that innovation doesnt have its place.Whether youve invented a data-collection method that streamlines productivity or a recording process that drives accuracy, candidates who inspire innovation in the workplace are likely to stand out.Did you check all the boxes for a career in finance?From brushing up on your financial-reporting skills to cultivating the ability to think outside the box, broadening your skill set is paramount to establishing a career in finance that soars.Indeed, if you most of these 10 attributes, you just might be one of finances most sought-after professionals.