When it comes to finance hires, technical expertise is a given. But what about the skills that don’t show up on a CV or in a system test?

We asked our LinkedIn network: What’s the most undervalued skill in finance hiring?

• Emotional intelligence: 46%
• Industry knowledge: 24%
• Coaching/mentoring ability: 17%
• Tech Adoption skills: 12%

The results might surprise you, nearly half of the respondents said emotional intelligence is the most undervalued. In an industry where accuracy and compliance often take the spotlight, this demonstrates a growing recognition of the human side of finance.

Emotional Intelligence (46%)

Emotional intelligence is more than being “good with people”. It’s the ability to listen, empathise, communicate under pressure and manage conflict, all while leading teams through complex financial challenges.

Why it matters in finance:

• Client relationships: Emotional intelligence builds trust when discussing sensitive financial data.
• Team leadership: Managers with high emotional intelligence retain talent by creating positive workplace cultures.
• Change management: Whether it’s new systems, regulations or restructures, emotionally intelligent leaders guide teams through uncertainty.

Industry knowledge still counts (24%)

A close second was industry knowledge. While transferable skills are powerful, having someone who “speaks the language” of your sector can accelerate onboarding and reduce costly mistakes.

But here’s the nuance: Unlike emotional intelligence, industry knowledge can often be learned on the job. That’s why leaders are beginning to prioritise adaptability and people skills first.

Coaching and mentoring (17%)

Strong finance leaders don’t just deliver results; they multiply them by elevating those around them. Candidates with mentoring skills are the ones who build bench strength, reduce turnover and ensure continuity when key staff move on.

Yet, as our poll showed, this often gets overlooked compared to technical skill sets.

Tech Adoption (12%)

Surprisingly, only 12% rated tech adoption skills as the most undervalued. With AI, automation and cloud systems transforming finance functions, this figure may shift in years to come. But right now, the human touch is clearly taking priority.

What this means for employers

• Rethink your job descriptions: Balance technical systems with soft skills like communication, collaboration and adaptability.
• Ask smarter interview questions: Behavioural and situational scenarios reveal more about emotional intelligence than a technical test ever could.
• Consider long-term impact: Technical skills can be trained, but emotional intelligence and mentoring ability are harder to teach.

The poll results are clear: The finance talent of tomorrow won’t just be measured in spreadsheets. Emotional intelligence and leadership potential are the hidden drivers of business success.

At HireIQ, we specialise in identifying candidates who bring both technical expertise and the soft skills to elevate entire teams.

Looking to strengthen your finance function with talent that goes beyond the numbers? Register your vacancy with HireIQ today.