presentation skills for finance professionals

• Skip to main menu
• Skip to user menu

Six Presentation Tips for Finance Professionals

• Soft Skills

Presenting is an essential responsibility for many finance professionals.

To gauge just how essential, we asked CFA Institute Financial NewsBrief readers how often they have to give presentations. More than half of the 585 respondents (58%) to our unscientific poll said they present at least once a month. Meanwhile, only 19% responded that they “rarely” or “never” do.

Presumably, there is a bit of natural selection at play here: Those who are more comfortable with or gifted at presenting end up in the roles that require it most often. And, of course, the more experience they accrue, the more they improve and the more comfortable they grow. Nevertheless, most people always have room to hone their presentation skills.

As a finance professional, on average, how frequently are you required to give presentations?

Recently, Dave Underhill of Underhill Training and Development delivered a webinar on how to be clear and concise in data-heavy presentations . He offered many useful tips for improving your presenting skills. Here are a few:

Presentation Design Tips

• Have a clear and singular core message tied to a specific call to action. Even when you are dealing with complex information, the key takeaway and call to action should be simplified and made crystal clear for your audience.  
• Targeting the information to your audience means considering each member’s role and how well they understand your material as well as their communication style and how they feel about the purpose of your presentation. If you know some of the key decision makers in your audience well, consider what motivates them. Do they care most about getting straight to results, ensuring the best for staff members affected by the decisions, avoiding unnecessary risks, or basing plans on flawless data? Address these motivations. If you don’t know your audience well, try to address all of the motivations.

Presentation Delivery Tips

• Attention spans are short and you may notice audience members’ interest drifting away. To bring them back, try pausing, moving, or mentioning an individual by name. The silence of the pause can recapture people’s attention. Similarly, a move to a new position can change the setting enough so that people refocus. Using someone’s name is a foolproof technique, but does require some tact because you do not want to embarrass anyone.  
• Orient your audience to your data slides verbally or through animation, even if you believe they will grasp the meaning on their own. Explain what the axes of a graph represent, for example, and feature the specific data points you want the audience to absorb.

Underhill had two additional pieces of advice that address both design and delivery:

• For every “what” you present, you need to answer the “so what?” Don’t assume there’s one logical conclusion to be drawn from your evidence. Communicate what you want the audience to take away. Underhill used the example of a company pitch presentation in which the audience is told that the pitching team has a combined xx years of experience. That’s nice, but so what? Why should the audience care about that? You need to tell them why.  
• Remember that the goal of many presentations is to have a conversation, not to give a lecture. Approaching presentations with this mindset can give you more confidence and help ensure the audience’s needs are better met.

Share this article

Related articles

Career Conversations: The Role of Teambuilding in Leadership

Career Conversations: Negotiation

Career Conversations: The Intersection of Emotional Intelligence and Executive Presence

Latest articles, the future of work in investment management: skills and learning, future state of the investment industry, career tools: job search tools and career management content.

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

• Carmine Gallo

Five tips to set yourself apart.

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

• Carmine Gallo is a Harvard University instructor, keynote speaker, and author of 10 books translated into 40 languages. Gallo is the author of The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World’s Greatest Salesman  (St. Martin’s Press).

Partner Center

• WhatsApp: +971 50 985 0174
• Dubai office: +971 4 589 6164

• Testimonials

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest information delivered directly to you

Type here to search

An intensive 5-day training course, effective presentation skills for finance professionals, vital skills for career development, course introduction.

Build the skills you need to take your finance career to the next level!

Highly developed finance knowledge and accounting skills and Excel proficiency will only take you so far in your career as a finance professional; but in today’s highly competitive work place those talents will not by themselves be enough to get you in to the C-suite with the real decision makers. Experience shows time and time again that the most successful senior finance professionals only achieve their place at the boardroom table by being masters at interpreting, communicating and presenting financial information to senior colleagues in a way that they can understand.

This OXFORD hands-on training course explains and practically demonstrates how to prepare for, plan and deliver financial presentations with real impact to internal and external audiences.

The course has been designed to provide delegates with a comprehensive set of skills and practical tools to interpret and effectively communicate and present financial information to senior non-financial managers.

By the end of the course you will be able to:

• Produce clear insightful reports using Excel and Powerpoint
• Integrate financial and non-financial performance measures
• Understand audience needs when making financial presentations
• Apply effective communication methods to get your message across
• Make presentations with real impact to internal and external audiences
• Handle difficult questions and challenging people

Who Should Attend?

• Finance Directors and Chief Financial Officers
• Planning and Budgeting Managers
• Management Accountants
• Senior Finance Managers
• Tax Managers and Auditors

Course Outline

• Tools and Techniques for Financial Analysis and Interpretation
• Integrating Key Financial and Non-Financial Measures
• Understanding the Needs of Non-Financial Audiences
• Principles of Effective Communication
• Preparing and Planning for Financial Presentations
• Avoiding Common Errors in Financial Presentations
• Tips and Best Practice using Excel and Powerpoint
• Making the most of Graphics in Excel and Powerpoint
• Designing Effective Reports in Excel
• Using Excel to Produce Eye-Catching Dashboards
• Practical Tips for Delivering Presentations with Impact
• Managing "Stage Nerves" before and during Presentations
• Handling Difficult Questions from the Audience

Certificate

Oxford Management Centre Certificate will be provided to delegates who successfully completed the training course.

Accreditation

In association with

GLOMACS Training & Consultancy

Visit website

• LinkedIn LinkedIn LinkedIn
• Facebook Facebook Facebook
• Twitter Twitter Twitter
• WhatsApp WhatsApp WhatsApp
• Print Print Print
• Favorites Add to favorites Add to favorites
• Pinterest Pinterest Pinterest
• Email App Email App Email App
• Gmail Gmail Gmail
• Reddit Reddit Reddit
• Adfty Adfty Adfty
• Amazon Amazon Amazon
• Atavi Atavi Atavi
• Bit.ly Bit.ly Bit.ly
• BizSugar BizSugar BizSugar
• Blogger Blogger Blogger
• Buffer Buffer Buffer
• Diigo Diigo Diigo
• Evernote Evernote Evernote
• Flipboard Flipboard Flipboard
• Google Classroom Google Classroom Google Classroom
• LINE LINE LINE
• MIX MIX MIX
• Myspace Myspace Myspace
• QRSrc.com QRSrc.com QRSrc.com
• Skype Skype Skype
• Telegram Telegram Telegram
• Trello Trello Trello
• Tumblr Tumblr Tumblr
• Yahoo Mail Yahoo Mail Yahoo Mail

Oxford Management Centre Typically replies within an hour

Course Registration Form

Enquiry for a course, request form, request for a different format, download brochure, accept cookies & privacy policy.

We use cookies to provide necessary website functionality, improve your experience and analyze our traffic. By using our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and our cookies usage. More information

Select cookies to accept

• Site Preferences

Accept Cookies Customise Cookies -->

Important Presentation Skills for Finance and Accounting Professionals

The world of finance is changing, and that means that professionals in the industry must enhance their skills to keep up with that transformation.

One of the most critical components of being an effective team member is your ability to connect with others across multiple departments.

Having strong presentation skills ensures that your message is being heard and sets an excellent example for your entire company.

Here are a few presentation skills that you should make sure are in your tool belt.

Presentation Tips for Finance and Accounting Professionals

1. try to reduce anxiety.

Unfortunately, public speaking is a complicated process for many people. It’s not easy standing in front of a crowd and explaining complex information.

However, the best way to overcome this fear is to do it more often. You can start small by giving a talk to a smaller circle of colleagues, or even just to your family and friends.

Next, you should seek opportunities with larger crowds at a group or organization that you belong to.

Toastmasters International allows you to gain even more opportunity to work on your presentation skills and get constructive feedback so you can become a quality public speaker.

2. Focus on practicing presentation skills

Put time into practicing. You want to make sure that your point is understood and that you break any distracting habits.

Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and then implement those changes to deliver a more powerful speech.

3. Deliver results

The delivery of your presentation is everything. Make sure that you maintain a conversational tone and that you use words and phrases that your audience will understand.

You can also pepper in a few jokes and metaphors along the way to keep people engaged. Make yourself relatable, and people are more likely to listen to what you have to say.

4. Be prepared for questions

While giving a quality presentation is undoubtedly essential, you should know that it doesn’t just end once you stop speaking.

In fact, you should want your presentation to be interactive as this keeps people engaged in what you are saying.

Take some time to anticipate questions and make sure that you have a quality response prepared.  

You may also benefit from reading, Communication Skills for Career Success .

Looking for a Trusted Partner?

DLC is a professional services firm helping companies drive transformation and growth, one project at a time. Our team provides flexible, efficient, on-demand execution of your financial projects.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help or explore our services below.

By DLC Consulting

Recent consulting news & industry insights from the DLC digital content & research teams.

Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives

• Course Overview
• Course Topics

Why Select this Training Course?

In the finance industry, how you present a piece of information is as good as the information you are giving. Effective presentation skills and highly developed accounting and finance knowledge will take you far in your career.

What are the vital skills for effective financial presentations? 

The presentation involves communicating data in ways that are informative and interesting. Today, presentation skills are needed in virtually all industries to help businesses deliver factual and critical information to target audiences. The top presentation skills every presenter needs to possess include honesty and enthusiasm, which involves excitingly delivering messages to the audience. Secondly, strong focus on the audience, effective presenters provide information in ways centered around the audience and not themselves. The third effective presentation skill is keeping messages straightforward. Finally, ensure you are personable in your presentation and have excellent body language.

Also Explore Related Courses

• Corporate Financial Planning, Budgeting and Control Course
• Government Contract Accounting Certification Course

Certificate Course in Financial Accounting & Taxation

Forex certification course.

• Federal Government Financial Accounting and Management Training Course

What are the types of financial presentations?

The financial presentation provides valuable insights into the company’s financial performance and helps evaluate the challenges and how to improve them. The method utilized in presenting financial information is essential for passing the data to necessary stakeholders, and generally, financial presentation involves four major financial statements:

• Balance sheets display what an organization owns and owes at a given period.
• Statements of shareholders’ equity indicate the changes in shareholders’ interests over time.
• Cash flow statements show the exchange of finances between the firm and outsiders for a fixed period.
• Income statements show the amount of money realized by a company over a given period.

The Rcademy Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives course is designed to equip participants with the rudiments of effective communication and how to prepare, plan and present financial presentations with an impact on external and internal audiences. Attendees will also learn how to analyze financial data, the interpretation techniques required, valuable presentation skills, and utilize Excel to deliver financial information.

Who Should Attend?

The Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives Training Course by Rcademy is designed for a wide range of professionals engaged in various types of financial presentations. The following personnel should undertake the course:

• Finance directors:  tasked with managing a firm’s short-term and long-term financial growth
• Chief financial officers:  charged with overseeing the financial activities of a company
• Planning and budgeting managers:  responsible for monitoring the entire budgeting process of a company
• Management accountants :  tasked with recording and managing a company’s investments and designing financial decisions
• Tax managers:  responsible for developing and filing tax documents for entities
• Senior finance managers:  responsible for monitoring investment decisions and designing strategic financial goals for a company
• Investment analysts:  charged with performing research and evaluating assets
• Tax auditors:  tasked with executing tax audits for public and private bodies and designing tax reports
• Asset Managers:  responsible for managing the assets of a company and also executing programs that raise the value of a company’s assets
• Financial Reporting Associates :  tasked with preparing and reviewing financial information
• Professionals  interested in learning about practical financial presentation skills

What are the Course Objectives?

The Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives Training Course by Rcademy will provide attendees with the in-depth knowledge and skills required to interpret and effectively communicate financial reports to relevant stakeholders. At the close of the course, participants would have learned the following objectives:

• Design clear financial reports and business insight through Excel and PowerPoint
• Utilise proven rules of effective communication to deliver financial messages to relevant stakeholders within and outside the financial industry
• Recognize the principles of effective communication and why it is vital in the financial industry
• Learn valuable skills used in handling difficult questions and challenging people
• Recognize the needs of the audience while making a financial presentation
• Understand how to interpret financial instruments and critical business performance metrics
• Learn how to make presentations with real impacts on stakeholders
• Understand the relevant presentation skills utilized in financial presentation and how to develop them

How will this Course be Presented?

The Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives course is participant-oriented and designed to meet participants’ expectations and improve their knowledge and skill of the subject matter. Different practical approaches to ensure attendees’ active and constant learning will be utilized to present this course. Renowned experts and professionals who have gathered years of practice and experience will teach the course within the field. The course modules are also drawn from exhaustive and meticulous research into the subject matter.

The Rcademy course on Effective Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals and Executives integrates practical and theoretical learning by providing attendees with cases, studies, lectures, slides on the concepts, and real-life scenarios. Participants will also engage in presentations, seminar workshops, quizzes, and regular feedback on lessons learned to confirm their optimum satisfaction.

What are the Topics Covered in this Course?

Module 1: Introduction to Financial Analysis and Presentation

• Introduction and definition of terms
• Principles of financial presentation and Interpretation
• Calculating and interpreting financial ratios
• Principles of business intelligence and Analytics
• A practical approach to financial analysis
• Using data analytics in Excel

Module 2: Delivering with Impact

• Introducing a financial presentation
• Pitch, pace, and pausing
• The value of metaphors
• Gestures and body language
• Logical flow and the benefits of signpost slide
• Positional anchors
• Sensory based language
• Lines of sight and visual aids

Module 3: Integrating Key Performance Measures

• Understanding and using the balanced scorecard
• Designing and using dashboards in Excel
• The principles of integrated reporting
• Identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) in an organization
• Exploiting Excel’s advanced data analysis functions
• Utilizing the effective performance management framework

Module 4: Handling Hostile Questions

• Recognizing hostile questions
• Types/examples of hostile questions
• The 3-step technique
• Replying with a question
• Car parking
• Inviting audience participation

Module 5: Building Presenter Confidence

• Importance of confidence in the presentation process
• Having expert beliefs
• The conditioning process
• Understanding the material
• Resource anchoring
• Developing positive emotions
• Recalling the past positive experience
• Using triggers

Module 6: Preparing for a Financial Presentation

• Mastering how to communicate vital finance concepts effectively
• Designing Excel reports for non-financial audiences
• The principles of effective communication
• Avoiding common presentation mistakes
• Using Excel to create graphics with impacts
• The principles and practice of effective data visualization

Module 7: Voice Development Exercises

• Speaking naturally with pride
• Breathing projection
• Correct posture and relaxation
• Monitoring your speech cadence
• Diaphragmatic breathing

Module 8: Analysing Financial Statements

• Importance of financial statements
• Types of financial statements – Income statements – Cashflow statements – Balance sheets – Statements of shareholders’ equity
• Financial ratio analysis
• Horizontal and vertical analysis
• Ratio analysis
• Forecasting financial statements

Module 9: Feedback and Reviews

• Types of Feedback and Reviews
• Analyzing feedback and reviews
• Importance of feedbacks
• Replying to a review
• Handling feedback
• Difference between feedback and criticisms

Module 10: Presenting a Winning Financial Presentation

• Writing an effective financial report
• Managing meetings and audiences
• Reporting to stakeholders
• Tips for delivering knock-out presentations
• Managing stage fright

Share This Content

Click here to auto generate invoice for this course

Get a free proposal to conduct this course in your organisation as an in-house basis

If you've any questions, Let us know by clicking the button below.

Customized Schedule is available for all courses irrespective of dates on the Calendar. Please get in touch with us for details.

Related Courses

Advanced Cost and Management Accounting Course

Certificate in Treasury and Cash Management Course

Corporate Actions Course

Private Equity, Venture Capital, Angel Investing and Hedge Funds Certification Course

Accounting Assistant Certification Course

Cost Accounting and Cost Management Certification Training Course

Start typing and press enter to search

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Important Presentation Skills for Finance and Accounting Professionals

The world of finance is changing, and that means that professionals in the industry must enhance their skills to keep up with that transformation. One of the most critical components of being an effective team member is your ability to connect with others across multiple departments. Having strong presentation skills ensures that your message is being heard and sets an excellent example for your entire company. Here are a few presentation skills that you should make sure are in your tool belt.

Reduce Your Anxiety

Unfortunately, public speaking is a complicated process for many people. It’s not easy standing in front of a crowd and explaining complex information. However, the best way to overcome this fear is to do it more often. You can start small by giving a talk to a smaller circle of colleagues, or even just to your family and friends. Next, you should seek opportunities with larger crowds at a group or organization that you belong to. Toastmasters International allows you to gain even more opportunity to work on your presentation skills and get constructive feedback so you can become a quality public speaker.

Practice Your Presentation Skills

Put time into practicing. You want to make sure that your point is understood and that you break any distracting habits. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and then implement those changes to deliver a more powerful speech.

Deliver Results

The delivery of your presentation is everything. Make sure that you maintain a conversational tone and that you use words and phrases that your audience will understand. You can also pepper in a few jokes and metaphors along the way to keep people engaged. Make yourself relatable, and people are more likely to listen to what you have to say.

Be Prepared for Questions

While giving a quality presentation is undoubtedly essential, you should know that it doesn’t just end once you stop speaking. In fact, you should want your presentation to be interactive as this keeps people engaged in what you are saying. Take some time to anticipate questions and make sure that you have a quality response prepared.  

You may also benefit from reading, Communication Skills for Career Success .

Related Posts

Bad Accounting Structures Can Doom Startups

The Now-Gen CFO

How to Hire in a Competitive Market: Tips & Advice

Never miss an insight.

Subscribe to our blog

We are Here for YOU!

Looking for a trusted partner dedicated to driving results, or more insight into what Addison Group brands can provide? You have come to the right place.

No matter the need, our brands have a solution, no matter the project size, we are dedicated to your success.

Need Verification of Employment or References?

Tel: 0844 394 8877

Boulden Management Consultants

• Study Guides

Remote Training

Presentation Skills  >  2-Day Course

Tailor Made Training Courses

• Management Skills
• Leadership Capability
• Core Communication Skills
• Professional Capabilities
• Trainer Training
• Negotiation Skills
• Sales Skills

2 Day Courses

• Presenting with Impact
• Masterful Sales Pitches

Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals

1 Day Courses

• Essential Presentation Skills

Half-Day Courses

• Charismatic Presentations
• Remote-Based Training
• Pick n’ Mix
• Course Brochures
• Insights Blog
• Insights - Free Articles
• Free Study Guides
• Video Nuggets

Learn to make financial presentations with passion and power

Two Day Course

• Acquire a toolkit of methods for getting the audiences attention
• Learn how to be self confident and charismatic when presenting
• Design high impact presentations (including strategies for building effective visual aids)

In the world of banking, finance and insurance the ability to ‘pitch’ an idea and present a proposal elegantly is a required competency for promotion to senior positions and this workshop aims to give participants the ability to be delivering powerful messages with a real sense of authority. It is also about having a real sense of confidence in yourself as a presenter and in the content of your message. The course is structured to meet the particular needs of people in the finance sector who have to present to colleagues; or speak at conferences, or pitch ideas to investors.

Learning objectives

By attending this highly interactive two-day course you will:

• Gain an insight into the ‘golden rules’ and guiding principles of dynamic presentations
• Master powerful techniques for developing your self-confidence when standing in front of an audience
• Discover a simple, yet elegant, nine-step planning process that will enable you to have a systematic approach for creating excellent presentations
• Learn how to open and close a talk so that you make a good impression
• Develop a strong, flexible speaking voice that exudes confidence and energy

Who should attend?

This is a training programme for relationship managers, account executives, corporate bankers, asset managers, senior insurance industry executives and other banking and insurance sector employees who have to make presentations to key decision makers (both internal and external) as part of their job.

Pre-course preparation

The emphasis of the course is on delivering material in front of an audience. In order to maximise the time available to do this, participants need to prepare a draft presentation with visual aids in advance of the course. The presentation, lasting around five minutes, will be delivered on day one. To help guide them in their preparation, participants will be sent a Boulden planning guide in advance of the course to help structure their talk. Participants should also allow time on the evening of day one of the course to write a second talk, of around ten minutes duration. This presentation will be used on day two.

The inner game of presenting

The phrase the ‘inner game’ is a term borrowed from sports psychology. It is a reference to the fact that what is going on inside a person’s head (their state of mind) is crucial to good performance. Here we consider the role perception and beliefs of expert presenters. We review the mindset that is associated with elegant and charismatic presentations.

• Examining your current beliefs
• Reviewing expert beliefs
• Making changes that you feel are appropriate for you

Pairs exercise: brainstorming the golden rules of effective financial presentations

Masterful planning method.

Outstanding presenters plan and rehearse their talks thoroughly but quickly. The BMC masterful planning process™ is a mnemonic in which each letter in the word ‘masterful’ covers one of the nine aspects of effective preparation. Learning the method allows the design of the presentation to be fast and effective.

Day 1 (cont)

Delivering with impact

There will be a review of the BMC Financial Presentations Assessment checklist, which highlights the key points that the speakers need to implement when giving their talks.

• Introduction and ending
• Pausing, pace and pitch
• Logical flow – the importance of the signpost slide
• The power of metaphors
• Sensory based language
• Body language and gestures
• Positional anchors
• Visual aids and lines of sight

Group exercise: discussion of key points

Revising the 5 minute presentation.

Participants update and rehearse their five-minute presentations.

Delivering the 5 minute presentations

Speakers take turns to deliver their five-minute presentations in front of the group and are given feedback by reviewing the videotape of their presentation and as a result of getting feedback against the Boulden assessment checklist.

Voice development exercises

Excellent presenters speak naturally and with pride. Here we consider the postural, breathing, and voice projection aspects of speaking well to groups. The exercises are of the types that are taught to actors and singers.

• Correct posture & relaxation
• Diaphragmatic breathing

Pairs exercise: breathing exercises

Day 2 (cont)

Building presenter confidence

Confidence in presenting has four sources. Firstly it stems from having expert beliefs, secondly from knowing your material, thirdly positive experience (i.e. having done it successfully in the past) and fourthly from conditioning yourself to feel good about presenting. Using a technique known as ‘resource anchoring’ we can develop this conditioning aspect of building confidence.

• The conditioning process
• Building positive emotions
• Using ‘triggers’

Pairs exercise: resource anchoring to build confidence

Handling hostile questions.

Methods for dealing with hostile, difficult or awkward questions.

• The 3 step technique
• Car parking
• Responding with a question
• Inviting audience participation

Open forum: question and answer session

Making graphs count.

Understanding how to get the most out of graphs as a key means of presenting financial data to clients and senior executives.

Delivering a second presentation (10 minutes long)

Speakers take turns to deliver their ten-minute presentations in front of the group and are given feedback by reviewing the videotape of their presentation and as a result of getting feedback against the Boulden assessment checklist. Particular emphasis will be put on self-confidence and voice projection.

Customisation

All our programmes are run on an in-house basis and we conduct interviews and facilitate focus groups to gather information with which to write bespoke exercises and case studies that precisely reflect the culture and work environment of the participants.

Numbers are limited to twelve per course to maximise participation in the programme. Presentations are videoed so that attendees can see for themselves how they come across to the audience and see how they grow in confidence and competence as the course progresses. In addition each presenter is given a detailed assessment of their talk, which is prepared by their peers. Completing the Boulden assessment checklists is not only valuable to the presenter it also helps those completing them to gain an in-depth understanding of the building blocks that make up an excellent presentation.

Course structure

There is an option of following the workshop with a three month long Action Learning project to link the lessons from the training back into the workplace. If this option is selected there is a closure workshop at the end of the project phase where delegates present how they have applied the techniques learned on the course into their daily work routines.

All of our workshops can be delivered as Remote Training via e-learning modules plus Zoom based virtual workshops. Please see our Virtual Training page for more information.

To talk to us about our range of courses contact Boulden Management Consultants : via our Contact form Tel: 0844 394 8877

© Boulden Management Consultants Limited. All rights reserved. Reproduction or copying of any material without written permission is prohibited. International House, 36-38 Cornhill, London, EC3V 3NG - Tel: 0844 394 8877 - VAT 715 0101 95 - Company number 03564303

Privacy Policy - Environmental Policy - Social Responsibility Policy

• Top Courses
• Online Degrees
• Find your New Career
• Join for Free

What Are Effective Presentation Skills (and How to Improve Them)

Presentation skills are essential for your personal and professional life. Learn about effective presentations and how to boost your presenting techniques.

At least seven out of 10 Americans agree that presentation skills are essential for a successful career [ 1 ]. Although it might be tempting to think that these are skills reserved for people interested in public speaking roles, they're critical in a diverse range of jobs. For example, you might need to brief your supervisor on research results.

Presentation skills are also essential in other scenarios, including working with a team and explaining your thought process, walking clients through project ideas and timelines, and highlighting your strengths and achievements to your manager during performance reviews.

Whatever the scenario, you have very little time to capture your audience’s attention and get your point across when presenting information—about three seconds, according to research [ 2 ]. Effective presentation skills help you get your point across and connect with the people you’re communicating with, which is why nearly every employer requires them.

Understanding what presentation skills are is only half the battle. Honing your presenting techniques is essential for mastering presentations of all kinds and in all settings.

What are presentation skills?

Presentation skills are the abilities and qualities necessary for creating and delivering a compelling presentation that effectively communicates information and ideas. They encompass what you say, how you structure it, and the materials you include to support what you say, such as slides, videos, or images.

You'll make presentations at various times in your life. Examples include:

Making speeches at a wedding, conference, or another event

Making a toast at a dinner or event

Explaining projects to a team 

Delivering results and findings to management teams

Teaching people specific methods or information

Proposing a vote at community group meetings

Pitching a new idea or business to potential partners or investors

Why are presentation skills important? 

Delivering effective presentations is critical in your professional and personal life. You’ll need to hone your presentation skills in various areas, such as when giving a speech, convincing your partner to make a substantial purchase, and talking to friends and family about an important situation.

No matter if you’re using them in a personal or professional setting, these are the skills that make it easier and more effective to convey your ideas, convince or persuade others, and experience success. A few of the benefits that often accompany improving your presentation skills include:

Enriched written and verbal communication skills

Enhanced confidence and self-image

Boosted critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities

Better motivational techniques

Increased leadership skills

Expanded time management, negotiation, and creativity

The better your presenting techniques, the more engaging your presentations will be. You could also have greater opportunities to make positive impacts in business and other areas of your life.

Effective presentation skills

Imagine yourself in the audience at a TED Talk or sitting with your coworkers at a big meeting held by your employer. What would you be looking for in how they deliver their message? What would make you feel engaged?

These are a few questions to ask yourself as you review this list of some of the most effective presentation skills.

Verbal communication

How you use language and deliver messages play essential roles in how your audience will receive your presentation. Speak clearly and confidently, projecting your voice enough to ensure everyone can hear. Think before you speak, pausing when necessary and tailoring the way you talk to resonate with your particular audience.

Body language

Body language combines various critical elements, including posture, gestures, eye contact, expressions, and position in front of the audience. Body language is one of the elements that can instantly transform a presentation that would otherwise be dull into one that's dynamic and interesting.

Voice projection

The ability to project your voice improves your presentation by allowing your audience to hear what you're saying. It also increases your confidence to help settle any lingering nerves while also making your message more engaging. To project your voice, stand comfortably with your shoulders back. Take deep breaths to power your speaking voice and ensure you enunciate every syllable you speak.

How you present yourself plays a role in your body language and ability to project your voice. It also sets the tone for the presentation. Avoid slouching or looking overly tense. Instead, remain open, upright, and adaptable while taking the formality of the occasion into account.

Storytelling

Incorporating storytelling into a presentation is an effective strategy used by many powerful public speakers. It has the power to bring your subject to life and pique the audience’s curiosity. Don’t be afraid to tell a personal story, slowly building up suspense or adding a dramatic moment. And, of course, be sure to end with a positive takeaway to drive your point home.

Active listening

Active listening is a valuable skill all on its own. When you understand and thoughtfully respond to what you hear—whether it's in a conversation or during a presentation—you’ll likely deepen your personal relationships and actively engage audiences during a presentation. As part of your presentation skill set, it helps catch and maintain the audience’s attention, helping them remain focused while minimizing passive response, ensuring the message is delivered correctly, and encouraging a call to action.

Stage presence

During a presentation, projecting confidence can help keep your audience engaged. Stage presence can help you connect with your audience and encourage them to want to watch you. To improve your presence, try amping up your normal demeanor by infusing it with a bit of enthusiasm. Project confidence and keep your information interesting.

Watch your audience as you’re presenting. If you’re holding their attention, it likely means you’re connecting well with them.

Self-awareness

Monitoring your own emotions and reactions will allow you to react well in various situations. It helps you remain personable throughout your presentation and handle feedback well. Self-awareness can help soothe nervousness during presentations, allowing you to perform more effectively.

Writing skills

Writing is a form of presentation. Sharp writing skills can help you master your presentation’s outline to ensure you stay on message and remain clear about your objectives from the beginning until the end. It’s also helpful to have strong writing abilities for creating compelling slides and other visual aids.

Understanding an audience

When you understand your audience's needs and interests, you can design your presentation around them. In turn, you'll deliver maximum value to them and enhance your ability to make your message easy to understand.

Learn more about presentation skills from industry experts at SAP:

How to improve presentation skills

There’s an art to public speaking. Just like any other type of art, this is one that requires practice. Improving your presentation skills will help reduce miscommunications, enhance your time management capabilities, and boost your leadership skills. Here are some ways you can improve these skills:

Work on self-confidence.

When you’re confident, you naturally speak more clearly and with more authority. Taking the time to prepare your presentation with a strong opening and compelling visual aids can help you feel more confident. Other ways to improve your self-confidence include practicing positive self-talk, surrounding yourself with positive people, and avoiding comparing yourself (or your presentation) to others.

Develop strategies for overcoming fear.

Many people are nervous or fearful before giving a presentation. A bad memory of a past performance or insufficient self-confidence can contribute to fear and anxiety. Having a few go-to strategies like deep breathing, practicing your presentation, and grounding can help you transform that fear into extra energy to put into your stage presence.

Learn grounding techniques.

Grounding is any type of technique that helps you steer your focus away from distressing thoughts and keeps you connected with your present self. To ground yourself, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and imagine you’re a large, mature tree with roots extending deep into the earth—like the tree, you can become unshakable.

Learn how to use presentation tools.

Visual aids and other technical support can transform an otherwise good presentation into a wow-worthy one. A few popular presentation tools include:

Canva: Provides easy-to-design templates you can customize

Powtoon: Animation software that makes video creation fast and easy

PowerPoint: Microsoft's iconic program popular for dynamic marketing and sales presentations

Practice breathing techniques.

Breathing techniques can help quell anxiety, making it easier to shake off pre-presentation jitters and nerves. It also helps relax your muscles and get more oxygen to your brain.  For some pre-presentation calmness, you can take deep breaths, slowly inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.

While presenting, breathe in through your mouth with the back of your tongue relaxed so your audience doesn't hear a gasping sound. Speak on your exhalation, maintaining a smooth voice.

Gain experience.

The more you practice, the better you’ll become. The more you doanything, the more comfortable you’ll feel engaging in that activity. Presentations are no different. Repeatedly practicing your own presentation also offers the opportunity to get feedback from other people and tweak your style and content as needed.

Tips to help you ace your presentation

Your presentation isn’t about you; it’s about the material you’re presenting. Sometimes, reminding yourself of this ahead of taking center stage can help take you out of your head, allowing you to connect effectively with your audience. The following are some of the many actions you can take on the day of your presentation.

Arrive early.

Since you may have a bit of presentation-related anxiety, it’s important to avoid adding travel stress. Give yourself an abundance of time to arrive at your destination, and take into account heavy traffic and other unforeseen events. By arriving early, you also give yourself time to meet with any on-site technicians, test your equipment, and connect with people ahead of the presentation.

Become familiar with the layout of the room.

Arriving early also gives you time to assess the room and figure out where you want to stand. Experiment with the acoustics to determine how loudly you need to project your voice, and test your equipment to make sure everything connects and appears properly with the available setup. This is an excellent opportunity to work out any last-minute concerns and move around to familiarize yourself with the setting for improved stage presence.

Listen to presenters ahead of you.

When you watch others present, you'll get a feel for the room's acoustics and lighting. You can also listen for any data that’s relevant to your presentation and revisit it during your presentation—this can make the presentation more interactive and engaging.

Use note cards.

Writing yourself a script could provide you with more comfort. To prevent sounding too robotic or disengaged, only include talking points in your note cards in case you get off track. Using note cards can help keep your presentation organized while sounding more authentic to your audience.

Learn to deliver clear and confident presentations with Dynamic Public Speaking from the University of Washington. Build confidence, develop new delivery techniques, and practice strategies for crafting compelling presentations for different purposes, occasions, and audiences.

Article sources

Forbes. “ New Survey: 70% Say Presentation Skills are Critical for Career Success , https://www.forbes.com/sites/carminegallo/2014/09/25/new-survey-70-percent-say-presentation-skills-critical-for-career-success/?sh=619f3ff78890.” Accessed December 7, 2022.

Beautiful.ai. “ 15 Presentation and Public Speaking Stats You Need to Know , https://www.beautiful.ai/blog/15-presentation-and-public-speaking-stats-you-need-to-know. Accessed December 7, 2022.

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

Subscribe for Free Business and Finance Resources

Mastering communication skills for finance professionals: a comprehensive guide.

If you're interested in breaking into finance, check out our Private Equity Course  and Investment Banking Course , which help thousands of candidates land top jobs every year.

Types of Communication Skills

Verbal communication.

Verbal communication is the ability to articulate thoughts and ideas using spoken words . In the finance sector, verbal communication skills are crucial for explaining complex financial concepts and strategies to clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.

Written Communication

Written communication involves the use of written words to convey information. Finance professionals must be proficient in drafting emails, reports, and other documents to communicate financial data and insights effectively.

Listening Skills

Active listening is a crucial communication skill in the finance world. It involves giving your full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and providing appropriate feedback. This skill is vital for building rapport with clients and understanding their needs and expectations.

Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication encompasses body language, facial expressions, gestures, and eye contact. In the finance industry, nonverbal cues can convey confidence, professionalism, and credibility, which are essential for building trust with clients and colleagues.

Presentation Skills

Presentation skills are crucial for finance professionals who need to share financial data, analysis, and recommendations with clients, colleagues, or investors. This skill includes creating visually engaging presentations and delivering them confidently and effectively .

Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is an essential skill for finance professionals, as it allows them to reach mutually beneficial agreements with clients, partners, or other stakeholders. Effective negotiation skills involve understanding the needs and interests of all parties and finding creative solutions to satisfy them.

Networking Skills

Networking is the art of building and maintaining professional relationships . In the finance industry, networking can lead to new clients, partnerships, and job opportunities. Strong networking skills involve being personable, engaging, and genuine in your interactions with others.

Tips to Improve Your Communication Skills

Practice active listening.

To improve your listening skills, focus on the speaker, avoid interrupting, and ask clarifying questions. This will help you better understand the message and demonstrate that you value the speaker's input.

Develop Your Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary enables you to express yourself more effectively and accurately . Regularly reading finance articles, books, and reports can help expand your financial terminology and industry-specific language.

Be Concise and Clear

When communicating, strive for clarity and simplicity . Avoid jargon and focus on delivering your message in a straightforward manner. This will make it easier for your audience to understand and retain the information.

Enhance Your Nonverbal Communication

Pay attention to your body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. Make an effort to maintain a professional posture, smile, and make eye contact when speaking with clients and colleagues.

Practice Public Speaking

To improve your presentation skills, consider joining a public speaking group or taking a course. Practice delivering presentations to friends or colleagues and ask for constructive feedback .

Learn from Others

Observe successful communicators in your field and learn from their techniques . Watch presentations, read well-written reports, and listen to podcasts featuring finance experts to gain insights into effective communication strategies.

Seek Feedback

Solicit feedback from colleagues, mentors, or clients to identify areas for improvement. Be open to criticism and use it as an opportunity to grow and enhance your communication skills

In conclusion, mastering various communication skills is critical for finance professionals to excel in their careers. By focusing on verbal and written communication, active listening, nonverbal cues, presentation, negotiation, and networking skills, you can effectively convey information and ideas, build trust with clients and colleagues, and make informed decisions.

To improve your communication skills , practice active listening, expand your vocabulary, be concise and clear, enhance your nonverbal communication, practice public speaking, learn from successful communicators, and seek constructive feedback. By investing time and effort in developing these skills, you will not only increase your professional value but also foster stronger relationships and drive better results in the finance industry.

Remember, effective communication is an ongoing journey, and there's always room for improvement. By continually working on your skills and adapting to new situations, you will become a more versatile and successful finance professional.

• Business 101

Recent Posts

What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)? Corporate Structure, Benefits, and Examples

What is Salvage Value? Explanation and Examples in Finance

Credit Sales: Definition, Mechanics, and Benefits to Buyer/Seller

1 commentaire

When I started creating my Google Slides presentation, I decided to use a professional design service. With their help, my presentation began to look completely different and the google slides design itself was done perfectly. The designers carefully selected the color palette, fonts, and layout to ensure my information looked clear and attractive. They took into account every detail to make it visually appealing and easy to understand. This service made my presentation look professional and impress the audience, which was the key to delivering it successfully.

More From Forbes

20 key skills finance professionals need to cultivate.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Though recent technological advances have had a disruptive effect across the business landscape, success in the finance industry demands more than just technological know-how. As the workplace continues to evolve, there's a growing emphasis on a broader range of skills that complement technical expertise. These skills are becoming key differentiators for finance professionals to stand out and thrive in a competitive, rapidly changing field.

Which skills should today's finance professionals use to best serve their clients and continue to grow? Below, members of Forbes Finance Council share 20 skills to cultivate if you want to stay relevant and be successful.

1. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a crucial skill for finance professionals in the evolving workplace. The ability to manage one's own emotions and understand and influence the emotions of others can lead to better collaboration, leadership and client relationships. EQ involves skills like empathy and social awareness, which are vital for navigating complex interpersonal dynamics in the business world. - David Chavez , CVS Health

2. The Ability To Connect Across Verticals

The ability to engage with stakeholders across verticals is becoming the most important skill a finance professional can possess. A successful finance professional needs to not only be an expert in their field but also possess a network to tap into expertise in intersecting fields. Identifying opportunities to interact with diverse sets of stakeholders will be critical for success moving forward. - Reed Luhtanen , U.S. Faster Payments Council

In a world full of bits and bytes, one of the most important skill sets for everyone is empathy. This is especially true for those in finance. While we create tech solutions to help solve people's problems—we can't do it well unless we learn to listen and empathize, to truly understand where people come from and what's important to them. - Theodora Lau , Unconventional Ventures

Goldman Sachs Issues ‘Astonishing’ Bitcoin And Ethereum ETF Prediction After Price ‘Turning Point’

Master these 4 talking points to ace your job interview, could blackrock change the issuance schedule of bitcoin, 4. relationships and business acumen.

Relationships and business acumen are crucial. Finance professionals should be equipped with the ability to establish and maintain strong connections with key stakeholders, and have street-smart insight into how businesses operate, make money and sustain profitable growth, now and in the future. This is a skill that is highly necessary for any finance professional who wants to be relevant in the future. - Mohammed Olatunji , Moremonee Limited

5. Strategic Knowledge

Finance professionals will need to understand strategy as the future workplace continues to evolve. As the world continues to develop—and new technologies, new ways of working and the everchanging geo-social-political climate are present—the finance lead will need to identify those factors that may have an impact and participate in the company-level strategic discussion to proactively address them. - Shannon Power , Scope AR

Forbes Finance Council is an invitation-only organization for executives in successful accounting, financial planning and wealth management firms. Do I qualify?

6. Critical Thinking

The No. 1 skill most in demand for finance professionals is strategic and critical thinking, followed by communications and storytelling, along with data analytics. These all form what we refer to as a "T-shaped professional"—boundary-crossing skills across the top of the T, on top of the deep technical accounting and finance skills. - Tom Hood , Association of International Certified Professional Accountants & the Business Learning Institute

7. Soft Skills Mixed With Client Information

Emotional intelligence and empathy are key. Technology will be able to help say what to do, but we know people can't and don't do what they know they should do. If they did, we would all be wealthy, in great shape, reading 40 books a year and so on. Financial professionals need to mix the soft skills and the info, meet their clients where they are and help them devise a plan and stick to it. - Rafael Loureiro , Wealth.com

8. Research And Innovation

The best skill known to man, in order to survive, is the skill to adapt. Study trends and new technologies to see where we are headed. Learn to innovate to stay ahead of technology and use it for your needs before it replaces you. The world has always changed. Study the evolution of industries. Adapt and create your own future. - Sharon Bloodworth , White Oaks Wealth Advisors

9. Comprehension Of Credit Reports

Finance professionals should know how to access credit reports for individuals, how to read and interpret them and how to guide individuals to address material inaccuracies in those reports. - Adam Singer , Credit Report Law Group

10. Self-Presentation

Regardless of technology, finance professionals need to be able to present themselves as uniquely qualified to serve the client. What is it that makes you different or more qualified than the other professionals? Is your story compelling? Does it sound like everyone else's? Is it truly different? If you cannot articulate why you are different and why you are better prepared to serve, you lose. - Michael Seltzer , Vérité Group, LLC

11. Relationship Management

Relationship management within the wrapper of “service," having always been important, is a business imperative. Technology, while pursuing efficiency, impacts relationship management. Advisors seeking to differentiate themselves in seemingly commoditized marketplaces must appreciate that research shows a majority of clients leave their advisor—not for a lack of expertise, but of service. - Thomas H. Ruggie, ChFC® CFP® , Destiny Family Office

12. Adaptability

As technology advances and the business landscape changes, finance professionals must be able to adapt to new processes, tools and ways of working and engaging. This includes being open and accepting to learn new skills, embracing change and being flexible in their approach to problem-solving. Adaptability allows professionals to stay current with industry trends, regulations and emerging tech. - Monica Hovsepian , OpenText

13. Curiosity

Maintaining a high level of curiosity is critical in an ever-changing workplace. Whether it is returning to the office, investing in new technology or bringing in new talent, constantly finding innovative ways to level up will serve you well in the financial space and beyond. While it may sound cliché, curiosity is repeatedly encouraged for a reason—it works. - Omar Choucair , Trintech

14. Perseverance

Perseverance is vital. We need to be ready to pivot and adjust at any time to fluctuating conditions. The way to succeed in any environment is by taking one step at a time, understanding that business cycles come and go, and maintaining confidence that a new rhythm will emerge. Take the next step. Do the next best thing. Focus on the highest use of your time. - Kirk Mann , Mitsubishi HC Capital America

15. Conflict Resolution

People are returning to the office, at least part-time. That means more face time and more conflicts. Existing technology is not going to substitute for conflict resolution. While AI apps might give suggested ways of handling a tricky conversation, it’s still not acceptable to send your AI app to interact for you. Learning how to effectively and efficiently deal with conflict is a crucial skill. - Carolina Martinez , CAMEO

16. Data Analysis

Technical expertise alone won't be enough. It requires a thorough comprehension of how to use statistics and data to inform decisions. The capacity for data analysis is necessary. Knowing what's going on behind the numbers will help you make better judgments and can improve your understanding of clients. The conduct will reveal patterns, enabling them to pinpoint just what they require. - Neil Anders , Trusted Rate, Inc.

17. Inclusive Communication

As demographics shift, both employees and customers of financial institutions will come from increasingly diverse backgrounds. Inclusive communication and leadership skills will be crucial for success. Financial professionals who can communicate with a broader array of people will have a strategic advantage within the workplace, as well as when it comes to attracting and retaining clients. - Monique Johnson , Beneficial State Bank

18. Mentorship

The industry suffers from a lack of talent entering its workspace, and mentoring offers the next generation more opportunities to grow and thrive. With succession planning always top of mind, there needs to be a better balance between the drive for individual success with mentorship. - John Abusaid , Halbert Hargrove

19. The Human Touch

As new AI tools become increasingly prevalent, I expect that finance professionals will be increasingly expected to provide the human touch. Software can do the math and elaborate information, but empathy, coaching, leadership and accountability are difficult to replace by software. - Daniele Viappiani , GC1 Ventures

20. Collaboration

I think that finance professionals are going to need to realize that other peers working in the financial industry are not their opponents or competitors but teammates. If we all share great ideas and techniques, then more people in the world will benefit. In reality, it would be a win for everyone! - Bob Chitrathorn , Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn of Simplified Wealth Management

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

• Business Essentials
• Leadership & Management
• Credential of Leadership, Impact, and Management in Business (CLIMB)
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Digital Transformation
• Finance & Accounting
• Business in Society
• For Organizations
• Support Portal
• Media Coverage
• Founding Donors
• Leadership Team

• Harvard Business School →
• HBS Online →
• Business Insights →

Business Insights

Harvard Business School Online's Business Insights Blog provides the career insights you need to achieve your goals and gain confidence in your business skills.

• Career Development
• Communication
• Decision-Making
• Earning Your MBA
• Negotiation
• News & Events
• Productivity
• Staff Spotlight
• Student Profiles
• Work-Life Balance
• AI Essentials for Business
• Alternative Investments
• Business Analytics
• Business Strategy
• Business and Climate Change
• Design Thinking and Innovation
• Digital Marketing Strategy
• Disruptive Strategy
• Economics for Managers
• Entrepreneurship Essentials
• Financial Accounting
• Global Business
• Launching Tech Ventures
• Leadership Principles
• Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability
• Leading Change and Organizational Renewal
• Leading with Finance
• Management Essentials
• Negotiation Mastery
• Organizational Leadership
• Power and Influence for Positive Impact
• Strategy Execution
• Sustainable Business Strategy
• Sustainable Investing
• Winning with Digital Platforms

7 Finance Skills Employers Look for on a Resume

• 07 Jun 2022

There's a shortage of talent in today's job market. While some believe it's caused by factors like the pandemic or "Great Resignation," the finance field is experiencing a talent shortage largely due to changing industry trends.

According to Robert Half Talent Solutions , 65 percent of senior managers in finance and accounting are hiring for permanent positions in the first half of 2022. Yet, only 33 percent are hiring for vacant roles, meaning many positions are newly created, largely due to the changing skill sets needed.

Are you interested in breaking into finance but not sure what your resume should include? Here are the top finance skills employers want, why they're essential to the job market, and how you can obtain them.

Access your free e-book today.

What Are Finance Skills?

Finance skills are often associated with industry-specific positions, such as accountants and finance managers. This definition only scratches the surface when examining finance's role in business. Finance skills are soft and hard skills that enable stakeholders to manage and navigate financial decision-making and problem-solving.

Some common roles that require financial skills on a resume are:

• Accountants
• Financial analysts
• Chief financial officers (CFOs)
• Underwriters
• Finance managers

Each role requires varying skills and experience levels. Yet, several skills are important, and often mandatory, across all positions. Here's an overview of what finance skills employers want and what you can do to enhance your resume.

Finance Skills You Need on Your Resume

1. accounting skills.

The first, and perhaps most important, finance skill employers ask for is accounting. This doesn't mean you need to have previous experience as an accountant, but rather proficiency in reading and understanding financial documents , including:

• Balance sheets
• Income statements
• Cash flow statements
• Annual reports

The data points extracted from these financial documents inform finance and business leaders about a company's financial health and its future initiatives.

For example, cash flow management —tracking a company's assets as they move in and out of the business—is an incredibly important metric. Leadership and key stakeholders use it to predict how much money will be available at any given time and how much is needed to cover outstanding debts.

Since accounting is fundamental in tracking a company's performance, employers tend to offer a competitive salary to those who possess these skills. According to Emsi Burning Glass data, prospective finance professionals with accounting skills can expect a median salary of $80,320 or more.

2. Analytical Thinking Skills

While employers need team members who build financial statements, business leaders need experience analyzing and leveraging this information. This is called financial statement analysis , the process of reviewing key financial documents to better understand a company's performance.

This is done by analyzing performance metrics found on various financial statements and through financial ratios. Some important ratios include:

• Current ratio , which measures a company's ability to pay off its short-term commitments
• Quick ratio , which calculates whether a company can pay off its short-term obligations with liquid assets
• Debt-to-equity ratio , which evaluates a company's financial efficacy by dividing a company's total liabilities by shareholder equity

Analytical thinking has quickly become a high commodity in the finance job market. Some of the top employers advertise finance job postings that require analytical thinking. According to Emsi Burning Glass data, the top 10 companies that require this skill include:

• Travelers Insurance
• Charles Schwab
• JPMorgan Chase & Co.
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Wells Fargo
• The Hartford
• Health Care Service Corporation

3. Financial Decision-Making Skills

Decision-making is an essential skill for aspiring leaders. While business leaders often take time to understand an organization's goals, initiatives, and mission, finance is crucial to positioning a company for success.

Managers in any department can benefit from finance knowledge. For example, estimating a project's financial impact is a common responsibility, often done by calculating its return on investment (ROI) .

Data-driven financial decision-making creates a clear framework for company leadership to reference and provides the building blocks to a far more elusive finance skill: intuition. For this reason, it's invaluable to include on your resume.

4. Management Skills

Like most industries, employers in the finance sector always look for applicants with management skills and experience. These skills are needed for managing people as well as the various moving parts of a company's capital structure and reporting processes.

This skill doesn't apply solely to mid- and high-level managers. For example, preparing an organization's budget requires management skills. Whether a quarterly budget for performance tracking or a budget proposal to recommend future initiatives, the preparation of this essential document calls for collaboration, regular communication, and clear direction.

According to Emsi Burning Glass data, some top finance job titles that require management skills include:

• Financial managers
• Personal service managers
• Financial and investment analysts
• Financial risk specialists
• Financial specialists
• General managers
• Operations managers
• Securities sales agents
• Commodities sales agents
• Financial services sales agents

5. Financial Reporting Skills

Many finance professionals deal with historical data, but looking to the future is equally as crucial.

Financial forecasting predicts a company's financial future by examining historical performance data, such as revenue, cash flow, expenses, or sales. This is an incredibly important skill to include on a resume since it often assists business leaders in major decisions around areas like hiring, budgeting, and strategic planning.

Cash flow forecasting is a particularly important form of forecasting. These predictions help support a company's stability by determining whether it will have enough cash to cover future expenses. As a result, these skills are often synonymous with "forward-thinking"—a valuable characteristic of prospective finance employees.

6. Communication Skills

Most prospective finance professionals understand the importance of accounting and analysis skills, but many minimize the role of effective communication.

This skill can take the form of strong oral communication in meetings or written communication in financial documents. Being an effective communicator also requires explaining financial jargon in simple terms. This is accomplished through financial literacy —the understanding and use of financial terminology, statements, and concepts.

Since many stakeholders and clients are outside the financial sector, companies often select candidates who can communicate complex industry language to others. Emsi Burning Glass shows a steady increase in finance job postings requiring communication skills over the past year.

7. Investing Skills

In today's market, most employers know profits made from their goods and services aren't enough to sustain long-term growth. Investing as one form of capital allocation is a great way for companies to generate even more money outside of their operations.

Since investing is a riskier endeavor than releasing a new product to market, it's important for employers to hire individuals with a keen eye for investing. For example, a company that has numerous alternative investments should hire people who understand these assets and can assess the varying risks.

Another aspect of this industry that's grown in popularity and demand is sustainable investing . This trend of purpose-driven investing has created a need for financial leaders who value and understand environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) factors when deciding whether resources should be contributed to a venture.

How to Improve Your Finance Skills

Finance skills are essential for industry leaders and managers. These positions require an intuitive knowledge of financial principles and statements to unlock critical insights into a company's performance and potential.

One of the best ways to develop these high-demand skills is by taking an online course. These courses can offer a solid foundation in finance and accounting concepts while giving you the tools and processes to tackle some of the biggest financial challenges companies face.

Are you looking to strengthen your finance resume? Check out our finance and accounting courses , including Leading with Finance , Financial Accounting , Sustainable Investing , and Alternative Investments , to acquire the skills needed to land an interview. If you aren't sure which course is the right fit, download our free course flowchart to determine which best aligns with your goals.

About the Author

•  +44(0)2073874484
• 0 View Basket

• Soft Skills

Advanced Presentation Skills for Financial Services Professionals

Experienced presenters will move to new levels of increased confidence by consolidating basic skills and learning advanced presentation techniques..

A one-day course

Download:   course category brochure   |   course outline, technical course content, advanced presentation skills training: first impressions.

• The ABC of first impressions
• The key opening line
• How to begin confidently
• Handling nerves
• Owning the “stage”
• Initial feedback

Exercise: Introductory presentation -who I am, where I am from, why I am here 

Essential Physiology of the Skilled Presenter

• Physiology – the data
• What defines confidence from an audience perspective?
• Using eye contact to build a connection
• Stance – presidential or casual?
• The importance of stillness – and movement
• Open body language
• Using hand gestures to develop engagement

Exercise: Short presentations and feedback

Presentation Preparation

• The race is won in training not just on the track
• Defining your objectives
• Using the 3Cs to construct your presentation
• Building objectives into your opening
• Using the “3 Ps” to start your message
• Gaining audience buy-in – before you begin
• Using the audience's point of view
• Achieving audience attentiveness

Advanced Presentation Skills Training: Audience Interaction and Engagement

• Questions to encourage participation
• Techniques to increase and reduce participation
• Handling audience responses
• Connecting participation with objectives
• Controlling comments and responses
• Developing interaction with what you say and do
• Inviting audience interaction
• Better alternatives to “any questions?”

Exercise: Short interactive presentations on a given topic, or a topic of your choice, with feedback

The Importance of Visuals – Slides

• Essential PowerPoint skills
• Using the AIDS technique to build engagement
• Handling large amounts of data on slides
• Drawing attention to key elements
• Connecting your slides with your objectives
• Using images instead of words

Example: Short PowerPoint presentation of your choice with individual feedback

Using Visuals to Support Communication – The Power of Flip

• Another medium of communication
• Using images to help imagination
• Linking images to objectives
• Improvising image building & engagement
• Key colour choices
• Quick techniques to build images
• Preparation and improvisation – prepare your ad hoc moments

Exercise: Fun session. Drawing your objectives

Handling Objectives and Objections

• Practical application of tools & advanced presentation techniques
• The power of the 3-minute presentation
• Opportunity for preparation and best practice in delivering presentations
• Individual feedback
• Audience participation
• Building confidence in you and your audience

Background of the Trainer

Training objectives.

• Deliver presentations more confidently and with impact using advanced techniques
• Build clarity on the key audience message
• Identify best practices for visual aids
• Become familiar with complex data presentation techniques
• Learn and develop techniques to increase audience engagement
• Practice delivering financial services presentation & management presentations
• Receive individual coaching, helping to enhance your skills on a 1-2-1 level
• Develop strategies to handle audience questions
• Manage audience dialogue to develop engagement
• Identify key messages within an advanced presentation
• Refine audience message takeaways
• Increase confidence as a presenter
• This advanced presentation course will help improve confidence in your audience in you as a communicator

What Makes this Course Different?

• This advanced course includes many varying scenarios applicable to the use of advanced presentation skills; not just PowerPoint
• Understanding everyone presents differently, you’ll experience a tailored approach to developing your unique style
• Training is delivered online, live, in a virtual classroom, across two half days giving participants the opportunity for reflection
• Advanced sessions are delivered in the morning allowing you to test your new-found skills during the working afternoon
• Combining the application of basic techniques alongside advanced skills, participants leave this course with a clear understanding of how to push their style forward successfully
• Advanced presentation training is combined with individual feedback and coaching

Do You Need to Attend this Course?

• Wealth Managers engaged in competitive client presentations
• Senior Executives making investor presentations
• Financial services professionals using ‘data heavy’, complex presentations
• Private equity professionals seeking to raise finance through pitches
• Financial Services professionals seeking greater buy-in from team meetings
• Financial services professionals seeking greater self-confidence, easier preparation and more engaged audiences

Training Course Summary

Have this course presented in-house.

• On a date, time and in a location of your choice
• Topics expanded or deleted to your bespoke requirements

Have this course pre-recorded

• Full course recording edited exclusively for your company
• Files converted to enable housing on your LMS

Trusted By:

Before you continue

You've booked 2 places on part one but only 1 place on part two, do you want to add the extra place to part two, popular courses.

Effective Business Writing for Junior Corporate Finance Professionals

Report Writing

Negotiation Skills Masterclass

The Art & Skill of Persuasion

Book before   to take advantage of our early bird offer, our standard prices after    , select the number of course places and dates to automatically calculate the discount. please note that virtual and face-to-face classes cannot be added to the basket under the same order., early bird offer valid until.

Prices are subject to change. We strongly advise booking early to secure the places at the prices above. This course can also be run as a tailored live webinar exclusively for you and your team.

We are very sorry but there are only spaces available on this course on your selected date

You can select the next available date below.

Or to run this as an In-house Course please contact us here

Join the waiting list

Please fill in your details below:.

• Search Search for:

No products in the cart.

• Scientific and Medical Professionals
• Powerful Presentation Skills: Online Public Series
• Craft Compelling Content Pre-Work
• Presentation Skills Training Programs
• Business Presentations: Standing
• emPOWER Educational Portal
• Presentation Practice Software
• Free Live Online Education
• Free eNewsletter

Financial Presentation Skills Training

Develop and deliver financial presentations to show trends and promote decisive decision making, get technical, get factual, get results program.

Improving your financial presentation skills will empower you to present the numbers to tell the story and promote decisions that get results.

Let’s Discuss Your Training Needs

Your Challenges

Too much information

Read with back to audience

Attendees are confused

Lack confidence

We Can Help You

Simplify complex data to tell the financial story

Enhance your professional presence to project enthusiasm

Present busy visuals without reading or using notes

Edit content to meet timeframes

Present the positive or negative impact of the financials

Handle tough questions with confidence

Relate your information to the big picture

Learn a 7-step content development format

Bring information to life beyond the spreadsheets

Formats Available

This financial presentation skills training program is customized to fit your needs, time frame and budget. Options include:

• One or two Power Presentations consultants
• Extensive video recordings followed by private coaching with most formats
• Motivational talk, one-day, two-day or three-day formats available
• Pre-work webinar may be required
• Tips for your Talk ® book
• Ideal Image Coaching Document: Personalized written feedback outlining key learning objectives
• Copy of all video recordings and skill enhancements
• Get FIT (Factual, Informative, Technical) PowerPoint ® template and worksheet
• Get FIT format wallet card
• E-newsletter 

related resource

Financial Presentation Skills: Maintain Your Audience’s Attention

Tell Stories to Connect With Your Audience

Tip for Effective PowerPoint Presentations: Touch, Turn and Talk

[email protected]

1-888-428-8410

Nine Reasons Why Financial Advisers Should Sharpen Their 'Soft Skills'

In the financial world, it’s not just about knowing your numbers.

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Many think of finances as purely a numbers business, but in reality, it’s a people business, too. Financial advisers work closely with their clients, often getting to know them on a deeper level than others might due to the sensitive nature of the work they do together. Discussing and receiving advice about one’s financial goals and personal money habits can be very vulnerable, and so working with a financial adviser who puts focus on their “soft skills” can be a much more comfortable and rewarding experience.

Below, the financial experts of Kiplinger Advisor Collective touch on nine other reasons why financial advisers and other financial professionals should sharpen their soft skills, and address why doing so can make for much better client-adviser relationships. 

To understand clients' unique needs and goals “Money isn't about numbers to most people; it's about how we live our lives. When financial advisers focus on mathematical optimization, they ignore the reason people want financial stability in the first place — so they can experience ease and joy in all areas of their lives. No set of rules or equations is right for everyone, so advisers must know how to understand clients' unique needs and goals.” — Dana Miranda , YOU DON'T NEED A BUDGET

Subscribe to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Be a smarter, better informed investor.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters

Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.

Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.

To build connection and trust “Money is personal. We attach all types of emotions, values and more to it, which is why advisers need to develop soft skills. People are wired to connect with other people like them; it's in our DNA. Soft skills are the bridge to human connection, establishing rapport and ultimately trust. Without them, the numbers never matter. ‘People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.’” — Derek Notman , Couplr AI

To be able to give personalized advice “Only after learning about the client's family dynamics, goals, concerns and fears can you truly identify an appropriate tax savings, estate, financial or asset protection plan. This typically requires you to listen more than talk and to ask the questions needed to identify the goals and concerns that the client generally will not share or may not even have had the time to identify themselves.” — John Goralka , The Goralka Law Firm

To act as a co-pilot on a client's journey “AI and robo-advisers are upon us, and while these advancements are incredible in many ways, they lack emotional intelligence. Advisers bring humanity. By combining financial acumen with emotional intelligence, advisers can play the role of co-pilot and help clients set their own GPS toward a destination that makes this flicker of existence a meaningful one.” — Dennis McNamara , wHealth Advisors

Kiplinger Advisor Collective is the premier criteria-based professional organization for personal finance advisors, managers, and executives. Learn more >

To blend the numbers with the heart “Just like great teachers have to think about how their students think, finance pros have to start thinking about how their clients feel if they want to be effective. Without that personal touch, giving advice is just flinging numbers into the void and hoping something sticks. The best recommendations use head and heart, blending the numbers with the hopes, dreams and fears those numbers represent.” — Kiersten Saunders , rich & REGULAR

To maintain relatability “One reason I believe financial professionals should sharpen their soft skills is to maintain relatability. All too often, professionals (no matter the industry) get so caught up in their work that they begin to disconnect from the lives of the very people they work with. Building that authentic connection with a client has the potential to create a lasting relationship.” — Justin Donald , Lifestyle Investor

To unlock the information clients may try to hide “Money is always an emotional business. We get attached to it, and we attach color and emotions to certain expenses. Finance professionals should understand this. People may not be so forthcoming with their actual expenditures to maintain a front. Unlocking this info accurately requires soft skills.” — Zain Jaffer , Zain Ventures

To better understand where clients are coming from “Money is math to finance professionals, but it’s pure emotion to many of our clients. In fact, that’s a major reason why they need us. Our clients often think about money in terms of how others will judge them — or even how they’ll judge themselves. Money equals appearances instead of inner peace. It’s our job to get deeper. If we can’t put ourselves in our clients’ heads, we can’t truly help them.” — Howard Dvorkin , Debt.com

To bring the human touch “Soft skills in any field will make people more effective, efficient and impactful. In today's AI- and data-driven world, soft skills bring the human touch, creativity, emotional intelligence and critical thinking to the table. By combining these two types of skills, finance professionals can make informed decisions, drive innovation and achieve success in an ever-evolving business landscape.” — Amrita Choudhary , Wasabi Technologies

Related Content

• Six Questions Your Financial Adviser Should be Asking
• Eight Times You Should Contact Your Financial Adviser
• Conversations That Women Should Have With their Financial Advisers
• Three Ways to Know If Your Financial Adviser ‘Gets It’ When Estate Planning

The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.

Kiplinger Advisor Collective is the premier criteria-based professional organization for personal finance advisors, managers, and executives.

Investing in the market while the market is high might not seem like a good idea right now, but here are three scenarios to help you decide what to do.

By Evan T. Beach, CFP®, AWMA® Published 2 June 24

Embracing your identity and purpose in retirement can help you avoid negative behaviors that thwart your happiness, joy and well-being.

By Richard P. Himmer, PhD Published 2 June 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise with us

Kiplinger is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.