5 skills that accountants need

Attention to detail, organisational skills and time management are all skills that are essential to accounting. However, they are also typically required for most jobs and won’t get you into accounting roles single-handedly. We’ve assembled five skills that are integral for aspiring accountants, and great additions to your CV.
Data Analysis

With businesses seeking to prioritise the important data in an ever-growing sea of it, data analysis is a vital skill to have. You must be able to comprehend big data, grasp what it means, and utilise it to improve business.

Though initially difficult, data analysis is invaluable to companies, and being good at it can distinguish you. A detailed introduction to data analysis can be found here:

Numerical Skills

Accounting is all about numbers, so it’s a given that you should be good with them. You don’t need to be a human calculator by any means, as you will of course be provided with a regular one, but knowing essential functions and calculations are a must for the accounting world.

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Tech Skills

If you consider yourself something of a Luddite, accounting may not be the best choice for you. With technology evolving by the day, it’s important to be in tune with modern software and devices. Most companies will train you on their specific accounting software but don’t expect to be taught how to use a computer on your first day.

Spreadsheets

You may want to brush up on your Microsoft Excel skills, as spreadsheets are crucial for calculating and analysing data. Of course, Excel isn’t the only spreadsheet software, but skills are largely transferable.

Recruiters often keep an eye out for spreadsheet proficiency on CVs, as spreadsheet acumen can separate good accountants from great ones. An accountancy recruitment agency such as https://talentfinance.com/can also help with creating your CV and finding a job.

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Regulatory Standards

Being up to date on tax law and accounting regulations is essential as clients will need your advice and assistance on regulatory standards. Newsletters can provide digestible information on these changes, saving you from hours of research if you’re willing to pay for subscriptions.