The increasingly prominent role accountants play mandates strong interpersonal skills, including:

• Communication – Accounting and finance professionals must be able to clearly express observations, suggestions and solutions to senior management and other individuals in the company.
  
• Listening – Arrive at each meeting with an open mind and be willing to hear what others have to say. Active listening allows you to conduct a more thorough analysis and develop effective solutions.
  
• Multitasking – Solid organizational skills and the ability to manage and implement the different phases of a project are highly valued by businesses.
  
• Diplomacy – Financial professionals need to demonstrate tact in taking the best approach to resolving sensitive situations.
  
• Adaptability – Successful accountants must be able to quickly acclimate to new environments and corporate cultures as well as interact with people at all levels.
  
• Teaching and mentoring – Senior financial professionals are frequently asked to discuss their approach to problem solving with other staff members. Their ability to teach through training, mentoring and encouragement can help other employees take on increased responsibilities.