Perform well from day one to make sure you are considered when an opportunity for promotion arises. Your attitude towards work is just as important as your skills and qualifications. We conducted a survey with 24 firms to find out the employability skills they value most in new entrants.

Work ethic
Be on time for work, have a professional appearance, and undertake tasks with enthusiasm. You need to work effectively in teams and share responsibility for projects.  Taking on additional tasks can have a positive impact on your role, team and company and could ultimately lead to promotion.

Communication
Finance, accountancy and financial services are people businesses.  In client facing roles, you have to represent the company well and engage in professional conversation.  Written communication is just as important, making sure that the grammar and structure is appropriate and that there are no spelling mistakes. 

Numeracy
For many roles a good grasp of numeracy is important. This means being able to work effectively with numbers, interpreting charts and graphs, and being able to spot mistakes without the use of a calculator.

Accuracy
Attention to detail and taking responsibility for checking your own work is crucial. It means that other people in your team do not have to perform checks.  The impact of inaccurate work within the sector could lead to substantial financial losses for institutions.

Problem Solving
Employers understand that new entrants may not feel confident in solving complex issues, but they are keen to have people who show enthusiasm for seeking out solutions. Rather than ask for your manager to solve the issue, present to them a range of alternative solutions.  It will show that you are proactive and take ownership – these are excellent attributes for management and leadership roles. 

Customer focus
Our sector is a peoples sector and the customer is central to work that we do.  It is essential that service standards are maintained and that the employer’s brand and corporate profile are never at risk.  Loss of customers through poor service equals a loss of business.

Understanding the bigger picture of finance, accountancy and financial services 
Employers value it when a new entrant shows an understanding of the sector and general commercial awareness.  Demonstrating your knowledge of the company, its market, the wider sector and general business practice will help the employer to see that you are keen and committed. 

Register with Directions now to receive regular updates on new opportunities in finance, accountancy and financial services.