• Robert Kraal, Co-founder and CBDO at Silverflow


• 24.02.2025 01:30 pm
#PaymentsIndustry #FintechSkills

The payments industry is dynamic and fast-paced, and while there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success, some skills stand out as absolutely essential.

Here are five skills that have been critical in my own journey, and why they’ll serve you well, too, no matter where you are in your career.

First up is Analytical Skills. Payments involve numbers, trends, and a lot of data. Being able to analyze this information gives you a huge advantage. Early in my career, I realized that making sense of data helped me understand everything from transaction patterns to areas for efficiency.  Whether it’s transaction fees or customer behavior, those who can interpret data effectively will always be a step ahead in finding growth opportunities and solving real issues for clients.

Secondly, Attention to Detail might sound obvious, but in payments, details are everything.
A missed decimal, an unchecked box, it can all impact transaction flow, security, or compliance. Working in a technical environment, I saw firsthand how the smallest errors could become costly.  In my work at Silverflow, ensuring accuracy is a cornerstone of what we do; it’s why clients trust us. If you’re detail-oriented, you’ll catch issues before they become problems and build a reputation for reliability.

Communication skills are also key. The payments world isn’t just tech or finance; it’s a combination of both, and more. Being able to explain complex concepts clearly makes you invaluable. For me, communicating with both clients and tech teams became crucial. Payments clients often need the “what” and the “why” behind every decision. And your teammates? They need to understand your insights to take action. Strong communication creates alignment and trust in a field where precision matters.

Next is technical proficiency. The payments landscape is increasingly digital, and understanding the technology behind it is essential. This doesn’t mean you need to be a coder, but it helps to understand the basics of APIs, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Finally, problem-solving ability is a must. Payments often involve complex processes, and things won’t always go as planned. The ability to think critically and come up with solutions on the fly is priceless. In my experience, every client has unique needs, and finding ways to deliver on them is half the job. When you develop a knack for problem-solving, you build resilience and adaptability, two qualities that will carry you far.

So, if you’re just starting out or looking to grow in the payments industry, focusing on these skills will give you a strong foundation. From analyzing data to solving complex issues, these skills have proven invaluable throughout my career, and they can set you up for success, too.