When you think of finance jobs, it’s easy to imagine a world dominated by numbers, data, and analysis. But while technical skills are essential, there’s another set of skills that can make or break a finance professional’s career: soft skills. These often-overlooked abilities—like communication, adaptability, and emotional intelligence—are becoming increasingly important in the finance industry. Our finance recruitment team have gathered some thoughts on soft skills within finance roles.
Why Soft Skills Matter in Finance
Bridging the Gap Between Numbers and Strategy
Finance professionals are not just number crunchers; they’re strategic business partners. According to a study by Deloitte, companies are increasingly looking for finance professionals who can not only analyse data but also communicate insights clearly and persuasively to non-financial stakeholders. This requires strong communication skills and translating complex data into actionable business strategies.
Navigating Change and Uncertainty
The finance sector constantly evolves, with new regulations, technologies, and market conditions continually emerging. Adaptable Professionals who can think independently are better equipped to handle these changes. A study by EY highlighted that adaptability is one of the top skills needed for the future of work, particularly in fields like finance, where change is a constant.
Building Relationships and Influencing Decisions
Finance professionals often work cross-functionally. Building strong relationships and influencing decision-making are critical soft skills in this environment. As Andy Normile, our Senior Finance Recruiter puts it: “Hiring managers are always looking beyond qualifications and technical experience. They want people who can build trust, communicate effectively, and have the emotional intelligence to influence outcomes.”
Enhancing Team Dynamics
Finance teams are made up of individuals with diverse roles and responsibilities. Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and teamwork, can help to create a cohesive team environment where everyone feels heard and valued. This improves team morale and can lead to better overall performance and job satisfaction.
Key Soft Skills to Cultivate in Finance Roles
Communication Skills
It’s not just about what you say but how you say it. Presenting financial information concisely and engagingly is crucial, especially when your audience may need a financial background. Strong communication skills can set you apart, whether it’s delivering a presentation to the board or explaining financial reports to a project team.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is all about understanding your own emotions and those of others. In finance roles, EQ can help you manage stress, navigate complex workplace dynamics, and handle difficult conversations empathetically and professionally. A high EQ can also make you a better leader, enabling you to connect with your team and drive engagement.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
In finance, problems are often complex, and solutions are rarely straightforward. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential for analysing data, identifying trends, and developing strategies that can drive business success. These skills also enable you to anticipate and address challenges proactively rather than just reacting to issues as they arise.
Adaptability and Resilience
Market shifts, regulatory changes, and unexpected crises are all part of the job. Being adaptable means, you can pivot quickly and effectively when circumstances change. Resilience, however, helps you stay focused and maintain a positive outlook, even when things get tough.
Final Thoughts
Soft skills are not just a “nice to have” in finance roles—they’re essential. The ability to connect, communicate, and adapt will be just as valuable as technical knowledge. So, to advance your finance career, don’t just focus on the numbers. Invest time in developing your soft skills, too. They might be the key to unlocking your next big opportunity.
Recruiter Natalie Verrey is a promotor of personal development for her finance candidates:
“I always ask candidates if and how they invest in their Professional Development time and what proportion of that is given to soft skills. If it is not on their radar, I encourage them to ask for 360-degree feedback to help identify areas for improvement and, from there, to find soft-skill courses (in-person or online) to help them develop them. It’s always a useful experience and a great talking point for future interviews, too.”
Remember, in finance, it’s not just about what you know—it’s about how you use it to connect with others, drive change, and make an impact. That’s where the real value lies.
