There's no doubt that a formal qualification will give you a flying start in your career. There are, however, some critical skills that your accountancy body won't have worked into their syllabus. In fact, soft skills will be just as integral to your career as technical ability, if not more so.Communication skillsThe ability to distil complex financial information into everyday language is a must. Financial reporting, treasury management and tax law impact on all areas of business and have to be explained to diverse audiences.People skillsToday's accounting professionals must be team players, exercising diplomacy and conflict resolution skills to facilitate and promote the accomplishments of their colleagues.Big picture thinkingAn accountant's ability to see the bigger picture, understanding the relationship between financial performance and the wider market, means they play a crucial role in mergers, acquisitions and other key, financial initiatives.VersatilityAccountants with a broad skills base are able to keep abreast of evolving regulations and standards, add value to clients and impress employers.Contact us to discuss your next move in more detail.Finance and accountingLinksAbout usBrowse for jobsNews and updatesLinksThe reasons for Ireland’s fund accountant shortage and how to bypass itNewly qualifiedPQ's adapt to the economic situationSoft skills for accountantsQualifications for a fruitful accounting careerGlobal CFO and financial leadership barometerInsight and adviceLinksUsing social media in your job searchWhat to include in your CVTips on selecting refereesAsking competency based interview questionsHow to get a promotionOur sectorsLinksBanking and financial servicesIndustry/CommerceSpecialist marketsTaxationTreasury