+ The technical skills required by payroll professionals include proficiency in computer +programs such as payroll software and financial systems, spreadsheets, databases and word +processing. +
++ Organizations often change their payroll and business systems to meet new technology +requirements and corporate reporting needs. It is important for payroll personnel to have the +ability to be adaptable to changing systems. As a payroll practitioner, you must be prepared +and willing to embrace continuous learning. +
++ The following personal and professional skills will assist payroll practitioners in dealing with +the various stakeholders involved in the payroll process: +
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++ written communication skills, such as preparing employee emails and memos, +
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+ management reports, policies and procedures and correspondence with various levels +of government +
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++ verbal communication skills, to be able to respond to internal and external +
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+ the ability to read, understand and interpret legal terminology found in documents +
++ excellent mathematical skills to perform various calculations +
++ problem solving, decision-making, time management and organizational skills +
++ Behaviour and ethics are two areas that build on the skills that an effective payroll practitioner +must have. Effective payroll professionals should be: +
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++ trustworthy, as the potential for fraud is ever present +
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++ conscientious, with a keen attention to detail +
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++ discreet, due to the confidential nature of information being handled +
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++ tactful in dealing with employees who can be very sensitive when discussing their +
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+ perceptive, able to understand all sides of an issue +
++ able to work under the pressures of absolute deadlines +
++ able to use common sense in order to recognize problems quickly and apply sound +
++ able to remain objective and maintain a factual perspective when dealing with +
++ questions and inquiries +
++ The primary objective of the payroll function in every organization is to ensure that employees are paid accurately +and on time, in full compliance with legislative requirements, throughout the entire annual payroll cycle. This function is +critical to maintaining employee satisfaction, legal integrity, and operational efficiency. +
++ Payroll itself is the process of compensating employees for the services they perform. It encompasses calculating wages, +deducting taxes and benefits, and distributing payments. Ensuring accuracy in this process is essential to avoid financial +discrepancies and maintain trust within the organization. +
++ Legislation refers to the laws enacted by a legislative body that govern payroll practices. These laws may include tax +regulations, labor standards, and employment rights, all of which must be adhered to by the payroll department. Compliance, +in this context, means observing and fulfilling these official requirements to avoid legal penalties and ensure ethical +operations. +
++ A payroll practitioner’s knowledge base includes a thorough understanding of payroll compliance legislation, payroll +processes, and payroll reporting. In addition to technical expertise, practitioners must also possess strong personal and +professional skills to manage responsibilities effectively and adapt to evolving regulatory environments. +
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