Financial career path requires both personal and technical skills

Recent research indicates that numerical skills are not the only requirements needed to succeed in the financial industry.

In a survey conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), it was reported that future financial officers must develop both interpersonal and technical skills in order to compete. The survey compiled results from over 500 financial and business executives.

Must be likeable and trustworthy

The survey revealed that firm academic knowledge and a solid understanding of financial technology was essential. However, personal qualities, such as being likeable, trustworthy and resilient, were also important and likely to be in demand in the future.

ICAEW Director of Global Student Recruitment, Sharon Spice, said that students do not always understand the importance of interpersonal skills, although she believes “[Students] probably do have some of these skills.” Potential financial executives must develop these skills, and communicate them effectively when involved in professional recruitment to boost their graduate employability.

Technical knowledge still key

Although interpersonal skills play an important part in the decision of potential employers, technical financial knowledge is still a key requirement for the people they hire.

There are many options for gaining necessary qualifications. MBAs, corporate training and executive education are just three possible examples of how to gain the necessary academic proficiency to compete in finance.