Automation of functions has undoubtedly made our lives easier, but what about our people and interpersonal skills? Dearbhla Gallagher outlines four essential skills for greater work and leadership success.

In an era of rapidly evolving technology where more work activities have become automated, people and interpersonal skills may be moving down the priority list for some businesses.

In the accounting sector, which has traditionally measured success by numeric metrics, the importance of people skills can also be overlooked. While technical ability remains a prerequisite of the job, today’s professional accountants need to acquire a broader range of skills that go far beyond traditional accounting tasks if they are to succeed.

The four key skills

1. Strong communication skills are essential for the modern professional accountant. Breaking down highly technical language and conveying complex information in simple terms is part and parcel of the job. Consider the audience – those who are not as numbers-savvy will lack the ability to understand and decipher the data the way accounting and finance professionals can. But communication is much more than sharing information; it is also about active listening – listening to your clients, peers, and employees. Poor communication can lead to serious misunderstandings that result in mistrust between employers, employees and even clients.
   
   
2. Adaptability and flexibility are crucial to success. Both things and people change all the time. The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the need to be adaptable and flexible to meet head-on the ever-changing environment in which we operate. Professional accountants who can adapt will be better equipped to anticipate future changes to serve their clients in a world that is being turned upside down by the pandemic.
   
   
3. Influencing skills are more than just the ability to communicate. Solid influencing skills enable a leader to get buy-in to their ideas and plans without the need to steamroll their way through the opposition. The ability to influence people, their behaviour, and their decision-making is a key skill for a professional accountant. It allows for the building of trust-based relationships with colleagues and clients, which lead to positive results.
   
   
4. Emotional intelligence is another critical skill that enables an individual to manage their own emotions, and the emotions of others, in the workplace. Fostering strong business relationships with colleagues and clients is central to building trust and a better rapport with people. Numeracy skills will only take you so far; cultivating emotional intelligence will ultimately enhance your leadership skills.

Professional accountants have a remarkable ability to look closely at details while simultaneously thinking more strategically in a way that escapes many other professionals. This dual ability is a valued leadership trait. Effective leaders can, and do, shape the future of the industry they work in.

As accountants advance in their careers, they need to develop their people skills to become even more effective leaders, better motivate employees, and boost morale among employees, thereby creating an engaged workforce. And an engaged workforce is one your clients will want to work with.

Dearbhla Gallagher is the Learning & Development Manager at Baker Tilly.