With the start of 2015, it’s clear that these changing business times require adaptable employee abilities. New technology and future-focused business policies mean that temporary and permanent employees have to develop new skills if they want to excel. More than any other position, accountants and finance professionals must evolve if they want to stay relevant in the coming year.
What makes accountants so important? Because they are the key to a business’s future. By interpreting essential financial data, accountants help senior management decide which direction to take their companies. This influential and substantial relationship means that accountants, especially those currently active job seekers, need to be ready.
Top 5 Skills for Accountants in 2015
Business Intelligence:
Business intelligence technology allows financial professionals and staff to transform raw data into powerful details that can help businesses analyze the past and predict the future. By understanding how to utilize these tools, accountants can influence decisions from operational to strategic. These skills are especially important for temporary workers and professionals seeking temp-to-hire positions.
Regulatory Compliance:
Accountants will be more responsible for understanding the changing laws, rules and regulations business face today. Small businesses and Fortune 500s both need financial employees who can cut through the red tape and keep them compliant with federal and state finance laws.
Coveted Credentials:
2015 is the time for accountants, both experienced and just starting out, to considering earning valuable certifications. These designations can propel accountants up the corporate ladder and secure permanent positions for those seeking full-time employment. Some of these coveted certifications include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Payroll Professional (CPP).
Emotional Intelligence:
Understanding how you relate to people and being aware of how your personality can influence team dynamics are core concepts at the heart of emotional intelligence. Accountants, often stereotyped as number crunchers, need to have flexible interpersonal and strong leadership skills.
Communication Skills:
Accountants today must able to explain complex financial terms to aging executives or help non-finance employees understand budgetary needs. Temporary and permanent financial employees will need to collaborate with other departments and sometimes even with clients or customers.
Having the traditional, typical accountant skills may be enough to get you an interview, but it won’t be enough to get you through the door. Candidates looking for temporary or permanent positions will need to showcase these skills front and center. For more assistance on developing the most important skills for 2015, contact Pascoe Workforce Solutions. We will be there right with you when you’re ready to make your move.