Not every accountant aces their career, even if they have all of the right qualifications. And as is the case for many individuals within a wide variety of industries, it takes a certain number of soft skills to help propel their careers forward and make them a hit with clients.
Below are some of the soft skills needed to stand out as an accountant and gain a steady stream of high-value clients:
A sound understanding of business issues
Having a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by many businesses, and knowing what solutions are needed, can come in very useful for all accounting professionals.
Excellent time management
You might always be busy, but that shouldn’t mean that you’re always behind with your work. By prioritizing tasks and blocking off your calendar for anything important that is either scheduled, or which arises, you can take control of your time and manage it professionally.
The ability to stay abreast of new technologies
Simply put: if you don’t stay abreast of new technologies, you’re likely to get left behind. Cloud accounting and automation have been transforming many industries for a number of years now, and the accounting profession is no different.
Carrying out potential client research
Finding out more about a prospective client can help you create a lasting impression when you meet with them, or talk to them over the phone.
Being an effective communicator
This is a vital soft skill in every industry, and if you aren’t able to communicate effectively with your team, colleagues, or clients, you’ll struggle in every aspect of your career. Obtain (or maintain), excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to excel in your field.
Resisting distractions
It might be nice to chat with co-workers or browse the internet while at work, but this should really be reserved for scheduled time-outs. Solid accounting requires dedication and focus, and by reducing distractions during your working hours, you can become more efficient and trusted among both your colleagues and your clients.
Maintaining confidentiality
This is an unspoken rule among accounting professionals, but one that isn’t always respected. Breaching your client or your firm’s trust is tantamount to career suicide, and simply isn’t worth the risk to your reputation, or that of your firm.
Maintaining a work/life balance
By leaving your work-related problems at the office, you can enjoy time with your family and friends that will restore your enthusiasm and give you a renewed sense of vigor for your career. It might be simple, but it works.
Choosing the right clients
While the ‘right’ client varies from firm to firm, you can still set some clear criteria to make client selection simpler and more accurate, which ultimately, results in a better service for them, and a bigger bottom line for you.
If your career in accounting is just beginning, there’s no better time than now to run your finger down the checklist above to make sure you’ve got most (but ideally, all) of the soft skills you need to possess, to ace your career. If you’re an experienced accountant who needs to work on your soft skills, again, there’s no better time than the present to review and upgrade them, after all, your career could depend on it!
