In a recent survey commissioned as part of Robert Half International's Next Generation Accountant project, 38 percent of CFOs said the attribute most valued in accounting candidates today is a positive attitude.  Businesses want employees who are eager to learn and accept new responsibilities.  For example, if you engage primarily in traditional reporting activities, you may want to volunteer to work on other types of projects, such as information technology initiatives or long-term strategic planning, which utilize different skill sets.

It's also important to be able to work effectively with colleagues across your organization.  Whenever possible, take an active role in cross-functional teams and collaborate with others to find innovative solutions.  Add value to these groups by offering insight on how decisions will impact an initiative's success.

In addition, communication skills -- written, verbal and presentation -- have become increasingly vital as accounting professionals interact more often with coworkers in other departments and senior management.  To be successful, you must be able to present complex financial data to these groups in terms everyone can understand. 

As accountants move from the backroom to the boardroom, their visibility within the organization is magnified.  With strong people skills to match your business knowledge, you'll improve your odds of success and greatly increase your marketability.