Why the soft skills of the CFO matter
People don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it. And the same is true for CFOs.
It's not enough to be good at numbers. The modern CFO needs to be a great communicator, a strong leader, and an effective problem solver. They need to be able to build relationships with key stakeholders and make sound decisions under pressure.
In other words, they need to have strong soft skills, and here are three reasons why soft skills are so important for CFOs:
1.???Soft skills help CFOs to inspire and motivate their team. The finance function is not just about numbers; it's about people. CFOs need to be able to create a positive and productive work environment where their team members feel valued and respected
2.????Soft skills help CFOs to build trust with key stakeholders. CFOs need to be able to communicate effectively with investors, analysts, employees, and the board of directors. They need to be able to explain complex financial concepts in a clear and concise way, and they need to be able to listen and understand the concerns of their stakeholders
3.????Soft skills help CFOs to navigate change and uncertainty. The business world is constantly changing, and CFOs need to be able to adapt quickly. They need to be able to identify and assess risks, and they need to be able to develop and implement new financial strategies
CFOs with strong soft skills are better equipped to lead their businesses to success. They are able to inspire and motivate their team, build trust with key stakeholders, and navigate change and uncertainty.
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Here are a few tips for anyone who wants to improve their soft skills:
1.???Be a good listener. People appreciate it when you take the time to listen to their concerns and ideas
2.??? Be clear and concise in your communication. Avoid using jargon and technical terms that your audience may not understand
3.???? Be empathetic. Try to see things from the perspective of others
4.?????? Be open to feedback. Be willing to listen to feedback from others and use it to improve your performance
By developing their soft skills, CFOs can become more effective leaders and help their businesses to achieve their goals
Article by Husain Essa, Executive Head Finance ~ fEG