The most in-demand soft skills for finance professionals right now

In today's competitive job market, it's crucial for junior finance professionals to possess a diverse skill set that goes beyond technical expertise. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates who can contribute value beyond their core responsibilities. 

In this article, we want to shed some light on the most in-demand skills for finance professionals, why they are important and provide actionable steps to enhance your skills in this area, ensuring you stand out in your career and during a potential job search.

Let’s begin! 

1. Relationship building and business partnering:

In the finance industry, strong relationships and effective business partnering are invaluable. Building rapport with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders fosters collaboration, trust, and better decision-making. Finance professionals who can establish meaningful connections are often seen as strategic assets within an organisation. 

If you want to develop this skill further, here are a few top tips:

• Cultivate active listening: Pay attention to others' needs and concerns, demonstrating empathy and understanding.
• Network proactively: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage in online communities to expand your network.
• Seek cross-functional collaboration: Actively collaborate with colleagues from different departments to gain exposure to diverse perspectives and enhance your problem-solving abilities.

 2. Communicating complex finance information to non-experts:

Finance professionals often encounter the challenge of translating complex financial concepts into understandable language for non-financial stakeholders. The ability to communicate effectively is vital for influencing decision-making, gaining buy-in, and building trust. 

To excel in this area, here a few tips:

• Simplify complex ideas: Break down complex financial information into clear, concise, and relatable terms.
• Tailor your message: Understand your audience's level of financial literacy and adjust your communication style accordingly.
• Utilise visual aids: Present data and financial information using visual tools such as graphs, charts, and infographics to enhance comprehension.

 3. Team management and mentoring 

As a junior finance professional, demonstrating leadership qualities and the ability to mentor and upskill others will set you apart. Effective team management and mentoring contribute to a positive work environment and foster professional growth. 

To develop these skills and stand out to potential employers here are a few things you should consider: 

• Develop emotional intelligence: Understand and empathise with your team members' needs and aspirations.
• Provide constructive feedback: Offer guidance and support to junior team members, helping them improve their skills and performance.
• Delegate and empower: Delegate tasks to your team members, allowing them to learn and grow while fostering a sense of ownership.

 What’s next?

As a finance professional navigating your career and potential job searches, it is essential to recognise and invest in the most in-demand skills of today. By actively working on these skills, you will not only enhance your value as a finance professional but also contribute to the long-term success of your organisation. 

Embrace these skills, refine them through practice, and become a well-rounded finance professional ready to excel in any role.

If you’re looking for your next finance role, search through our huge library of live finance jobs right here and get one step closer to your dream job. 

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