To be at the peak of your career, there are some required set of skills which you must have.
- Strong mathematical skills: a person going for the role of payroll manager must be comfortable working with numbers. It is one of the most important skills a payroll manager must have. It shouldn’t only entail just calculating huge figures. It also comprises the ability to look at a spreadsheet and spot out any errors or discrepancies. Even though the manager will be equipped with payroll software that will help in accomplishing difficult tasks, it is very dangerous to trust and rely on them. A payroll manager should be able to conduct fast and accurate arithmetic on his own.
- Attention to detail oriented: A payroll manager must have an affinity detail. Financial risks come with the job, even a minute error can cause a colossal damage to his/her reputation. For example, the use of a comma and full stop in your digits can be a little confusing. Take for instance 99,999 and 99.999. They may look alike when you are busy and tired and this may cause problems for you
- Communication: having a good communication skill will be necessary for this role, in both writing and speaking. He will be needed to clearly write messages, to avoid misinterpretation and aid understanding which will then positively impact the performance and productivity of assisting staffs in his division. In addition, He will also be asked to regularly organise several financial reports for senior executives, major investors, and collaborating staffs. The information should be accurate, clear, compelling, and easy to understand. The payroll officer should also be able to interpret difficult messages in a way that every person under his unit will be able to understand and successfully carry out the message’s order.
- Computer knowledge: all companies in this era prefer their candidate to have the basic computer knowledge. Even computer skills as simple as the MS word office such as MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and MS word are important for carrying out simple tasks. Computer knowledge will be necessary for creating engaging materials and reports for executives. Major stakeholders and other personnel in their team.
- Analytical Abilities: A payroll manager must exhibit an appetite for carrying out research and conducting analyses based on raw data, and providing lasting solutions for payroll guidelines and procedures in the firm.
- Trustworthiness: The Payroll Manager needs to also exhibit certain qualities that make him the best man for the job. For that reason, an aspirant that wants to go for the position of the payroll manager must, handle delicate and confidential material, and also preserve a high level of honesty. In addition, He will also have to demonstrate self-motivation because most jobs, he will be working under unlimited restrictions. He will have to be very active going beyond his jurisdiction, have an affinity for multitasking, accomplish everyday jobs in a timely manner, have outstanding solution-providing skills, have the skills to work in a team and show composure in times of stress and pressure.
- People Person: The payroll manager should also exhibit an ability to create and preserve strong and important connections. He will also be sociable, instil trust in other personnel, which will make senior executives and investors free to share sensitive information with you because they have found favour in your judgement.