How to Select the Best Accountant with a Strong Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Finding a skilled accountant is essential for managing finances, but technical expertise alone isn’t enough. A great accountant should also have emotional intelligence (EQ)—the ability to manage their emotions and understand others. A high EQ helps accountants communicate better, handle stressful situations, and build strong relationships with clients. Here’s a guide to help you choose an accountant who not only knows numbers but also connects with people.

1. Understanding Emotional Intelligence in Accounting

Emotional intelligence is a mix of self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (Goleman, 1995). Accountants with high EQ can handle pressure, adapt to client needs, and maintain professionalism in difficult situations. According to Salovey and Mayer (1990), EQ is just as important as IQ in workplace success.

2. Key Traits of an Accountant with High EQ

When selecting an accountant, look for these traits:

  • Strong Communication Skills – They should explain complex financial matters in a way that’s easy to understand (Bradberry & Greaves, 2009).
  • Empathy – They should be able to put themselves in your shoes and understand your financial concerns.
  • Adaptability – A good accountant adjusts to changing tax laws, regulations, and business needs.
  • Conflict Resolution – If financial disagreements arise, an accountant with high EQ can navigate the situation calmly and professionally.
  • Trustworthiness and Integrity – Since accountants handle sensitive financial data, a high level of integrity is crucial (Cohen et al., 2001).

3. How to Assess EQ During the Hiring Process

  1. Ask Behavioral Questions

    Instead of just reviewing technical skills, ask questions that reveal emotional intelligence, such as:

    • “Tell me about a time you had to explain a difficult financial situation to a client. How did you handle it?”
    • “Can you describe a time when a client was upset? How did you resolve the issue?”
  2. Observe Their Listening Skills

    A great accountant listens actively and responds thoughtfully. If they interrupt frequently or rush to conclusions, they might lack EQ.

  3. Check References for Interpersonal Skills

    Ask previous clients or employers about the accountant’s communication, patience, and ability to handle pressure.

  4. Watch for Non-Verbal Cues

    During interviews, observe body language and tone of voice. A confident but approachable demeanor is a sign of high EQ.

4. The Benefits of Hiring an Accountant with High EQ

  • Better Decision-Making – Accountants with strong EQ consider not just numbers, but also business goals and client emotions (Boyatzis et al., 2000).
  • Reduced Stress for Business Owners – A supportive accountant eases financial worries and offers reassurance.
  • Stronger Client-Accountant Relationships – High-EQ professionals create long-term, trust-based relationships with clients.
  • Improved Conflict Resolution – They handle disputes professionally, reducing unnecessary stress.

5. Conclusion: Balancing Technical Skills and EQ

Choosing an accountant isn’t just about credentials—it’s about finding someone who can handle both numbers and people. A high-EQ accountant will communicate well, build trust, and help you make better financial decisions. Take your time in the hiring process, ask the right questions, and look for the signs of strong emotional intelligence.