Contents
- Communication for Clarity and Influence
- Adaptability in a Fast-Changing Sector
- Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving
- Leadership and Team Collaboration
- The Differentiator in Leadership? Emotional Intelligence
Communication for Clarity and Influence
Finance roles often require translating complex data into clear, actionable insight for non-finance stakeholders. Whether you're a senior accountant presenting to the board or a finance manager supporting strategic decisions, strong communication is critical.
Hiring managers are looking for finance professionals who can:
- Present financial information clearly and persuasively
- Tailor messaging to different audiences (e.g., C-suite, operations, investors)
- Collaborate cross-functionally with departments like marketing, HR, or operations
Strong communication is one of the top skills for finance jobs, especially as companies seek finance partners who drive business conversations rather than just report on them.
Tip: Practise articulating your achievements using the STAR method in interviews and performance reviews. This showcases both technical results and your ability to communicate their impact.
Adaptability in a Fast-Changing Sector
The pace of change in finance is accelerating, driven by digital transformation, regulatory updates, and global market shifts. One survey of finance leaders found that 29% feel that navigating economic uncertainty and market changes with agility is their biggest challenge. So, being adaptable is a must. This is especially relevant in sectors where rapid innovation or M&A activity requires finance teams to stay agile.
Candidates with strong adaptability can:
- Embrace new technologies like ERP systems, AI-driven analytics, and RPA
- Work effectively in remote or hybrid environments
- Respond constructively to business pivots or restructures
Soft skills in finance are often the bridge between technical knowledge and effective application. Demonstrating adaptability signals to employers that you're future-ready and resilient under pressure.
One increasingly popular route to develop these capabilities is through interim roles. If you're exploring career options that offer variety, exposure to transformation, and rapid skill development, interim finance roles could be right for you.
Tip: Highlight situations where you embraced change or helped lead transformation initiatives during interviews. It shows you're comfortable being uncomfortable, a key trait for leaders.
Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving
As finance becomes more integrated into strategic business planning, hiring managers are looking beyond traditional accountancy. They want professionals who can interpret numbers, identify risks, and shape commercial decisions.
Top candidates show they can:
- Connect financial data to business strategy
- Spot inefficiencies or risk areas and propose solutions
- Contribute meaningfully to planning and forecasting meetings
Strategic thinking is one of the most important finance skills in demand, particularly at the leadership level. Whether you're looking to step into an FP&A role or aiming for Finance Director in the future, honing your problem-solving ability and commercial mindset is essential.
Tip: Build your business acumen by staying informed on your sector's trends. In industries like retail, property or hospitality, understanding operational drivers makes you a better strategic finance partner.
Leadership and Team Collaboration
You don't need a management title to be a leader. Today's finance teams value professionals who can:
- Inspire and support junior colleagues
- Lead by example in projects or audits
- Foster a collaborative, solutions-focused environment
Hiring managers consistently cite leadership potential and team collaboration as high priorities when recruiting for roles at the senior accountant level and above. These are core finance and accounting soft skills that speak to your ability to influence outcomes, manage stakeholder expectations, and nurture team success.
Tip: Take ownership of a project or mentoring initiative, even informally. It demonstrates initiative and people skills that go beyond spreadsheets.
Emotional Intelligence: The Differentiator in Leadership
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a powerful differentiator, particularly as you step into roles requiring people management, stakeholder influence, or organisational change.
Finance professionals with high EQ can:
- Handle difficult conversations constructively
- Manage stress and stay composed under pressure
- Understand and respond to team dynamics
In an era where finance leaders are expected to drive transformation and support change management, emotional intelligence is more valuable than ever. It's one of the most underrated but essential soft skills in finance.
Tip: Reflect on feedback you've received and how you respond to pressure or interpersonal challenges. Building self-awareness is the first step to stronger EQ.
For finance and accounting professionals aiming to step into leadership roles or level up in their careers, technical excellence is the foundation. But it's your soft skills in finance that will elevate you. Whether you're looking to become a Finance Business Partner, Financial Controller, or CFO in the future, strengthening these five soft skills will make you stand out in interviews and succeed in role.
If you're preparing for a promotion or job move, understanding your market value is key. Our guide to benchmarking your accounting or finance salary and negotiating with confidence breaks down how to evaluate your compensation, prepare for salary discussions, and ensure you're rewarded fairly for your growing skill set.
At Global Accounting Network, we work closely with candidates to identify not just the right opportunities, but the right career moves. From helping you position your experience to coaching you on how to highlight your skills, we support every step of your journey.
Search our current job opportunities or contact us today to discuss how we can support your career progression and help you secure your next role.