Why EQ is more valuable than IQ for accountants
Most accountants have great technical skills but what sets the best ones apart from the rest is their emotional intelligence, argues Edi Osborne.
Lately I have read a lot of articles about getting ready for the NextGen accountants - I've even written a few myself. All of us who like to comment on this subject recognise one of the greatest challenges for the profession in the coming years is succession.
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Looks like we have been doing the right thing without knowing we
"Attitude" is the key. I operate on the principal that whether someone is a Lord or a pauper - they are primarily a person and entitled to be treated as such - as an equal. I dont believe there is anyone superior to me, nor inferior to me. People are simply "different". No, that's not "political correctness" it's just being a decent human being.
So yes, ability and knowledge are, of course, vital. BUT, attitude and treating others, workers, suppliers, clients, with respect is equally vital. I expect, indeed insist, that when a client walks in they are treated with total respect no matter who they are or why they are there. Whether they are managing director of a plc come to discuss his latest expansion plans, or someone accused of rape wishing to discuss their defence, makes no difference. They are clients, and, above that, they are people entitled to be treated as equals.
We try to build a "family" atmosphere where everyone is on first name terms and the environment is relaxed and friendly. No set breaks, no time sheets, flexible hours, no one checking up on others, and no pay differentials. Qualified and QBEs are paid the same.
Does it work? Well we have staff who have bee with us for 30 years and very rarely does anyone leave. Indeed I dont think anyone has left for 30 years other than to retire, or because a husband has re located away from the area.
Its not rocket science - I just wonder why so many businesses get it so wrong?