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Skills required to be an accountant
An accountant requires a range of skills to do their job. These include:
Numerical competence
There's no need to be a Maths genius but you must be comfortable with numbers and have a Maths GCSE or equivalent to do the ACCA Qualification.
Communication skills
You need to be able to confidently communicate technical information to others with no accounting knowledge. It is important to be able to communicate clearly at all levels of the business.
Team player
Accountants often work in teams. You need to work well with others to get and deliver information which makes it easier to do your job.
Interpersonal skills
You must be able to interact with others. Building relationships with people in the business is important as they will help you carry out your role.
Problem solving
In accounting you will often need to determine the best way to solve a problem. You may encounter challenges so it is important you find a way to overcome obstacles.
Commitment and motivation
Accountancy training is not easy. Your employer will be investing time and money in you so you need to demonstrate you are committed to learning and show you are motivated to succeed.
Reporting skills
Accountants need to prepare statistical and written reports. Report writing is a skill you will develop as your career progresses.
Attention to detail
You have to pay attention to small details as miscalculations can lead to misinterpretation. Your training will teach you to take a methodical approach.
Time management
Accountants often work on several projects at a time so you need to manage and prioritise your work load to meet goals and deadlines.
Professionalism
Accountants have a responsibility to operate professionally and ethically. This includes how you treat others, your behaviour in the work place and your work performance, including discretion with sensitive information.