Most Important Skills For An Audit Associate At A Big 4 Accounting Firm
While attention to detail and data-driven analysis are essential skills in accounting and audit, as noted by Joel, a Big 4 Audit Associate, the ability to "work with people," demonstrating high emotional intelligence and empathy, truly differentiates high performers. This "standout skill" is often overlooked but proves invaluable in a career like theirs.
Attention to Detail, Data Analysis, Communication, People Skills, Emotional Intelligence
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Joel Bobe
Audit Associate
Big 4 Accounting Firm
The George Washington University
UNC - Chapel Hill
International Relations & Affairs, Philosophy
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Attention to detail and data-driven approach are crucial for analyzing financial statements and numbers.
2. Excellent people skills, including high emotional intelligence and empathy, are essential for effective teamwork and collaboration.
3. Strong communication skills are needed to clearly convey complex information and build rapport with clients and colleagues.
Transcript
What skills are most important for job makers?
What draws many people to accounting, and audit in particular, is attention to detail. If you're a numbers person and can glean a story from financial statements or numbers, and you're oriented that way and data-driven, that's usually what attracts people to accounting.
I think what's often overlooked is your people skills. Ultimately, what differentiates high performers from others is their ability to work with people.
Many people are very good with the data and numbers and have attention to detail. But a standout skill is your ability to deal with people, to have high emotional intelligence, to be empathetic, and to understand people and where they come from. I think that's very valuable.