Question Overview: Accountants use spreadsheets to track and organize data, so it's important to know how proficient the job seeker is with this tool. Look for an answer that indicates the applicant has a strong understanding of Excel's features and functions.
Sample Answer: I would rate my skills at a solid 8. I'm comfortable with the basics, but I'm still learning how to use more advanced features. I've learned a lot from watching YouTube videos and reading Excel blogs.
Question Overview: This question gives you insight into the applicant's career aspirations. Look for answers that show a desire to continue to learn and grow in the accounting field.
Sample Answer: I want to continue to learn more about the accounting industry and advance my career. I want to work for a large company that has a lot of opportunities for growth and advancement.
Question Overview: Accountants need to have a fundamental understanding of the stock market and how to read financial statements. This question tests whether the applicant can answer a basic finance question.
Sample Answer: Google's stock price is $1,000 per share. The company's market cap is $500 billion.
Question Overview: Accountants may have to deal with difficult employees or clients. The applicant should show that they can remain professional and solve problems in a diplomatic manner.
Sample Answer: I would first try to understand the other person's perspective. I would then explain my position and try to find a solution that works for both of us. If we couldn't come to an agreement, I would escalate the issue to my manager.
Question Overview: A CV is a summary of the applicant's work history, education, and other qualifications. The applicant should be able to explain their work history in a clear and concise manner.
Sample Answer: I've worked at three different companies over the past five years. I started out as an accounting assistant and worked my way up to senior accountant. I have a bachelor's degree in accounting from a local university.
Question Overview: This question gives you insight into how the job seeker responds to difficult situations. Look for a response that shows how the applicant handled the situation and what they learned from it.
Sample Answer: I was working on a project for a client who was very demanding. I had to work with them on a tight deadline and they kept making changes to the project scope. I had to learn how to say "no" without upsetting them. I learned that it's important to set clear expectations and communicate those expectations clearly.
Question Overview: The applicant should have a clear idea of their career goals and how they plan to achieve them. Look for answers that include the applicant's long-term career goals and how they plan to achieve them.
Sample Answer: I would like to be a CPA and would like to work my way up to a controller position within the next 5 years. I plan to take the CPA exam in the next year and will continue to learn accounting software and business processes so I can be an asset to any company I work for.
Question Overview: This question reveals whether the applicant is truly interested in the position. The applicant should have a compelling reason for wanting to work for your company.
Sample Answer: I've been looking for a job in accounting for over a year, and I'm very excited about this opportunity. I've been following your company for a while, and I think you have a great reputation. I'm very impressed with your products and services, and I think you have a bright future ahead.
Question Overview: This is a simple question that allows the applicant to share their background, skills, and interests. Look for a response that shows the applicant's personality and enthusiasm for the job.
Sample Answer: I'm a recent graduate with a bachelor's degree in accounting. I'm very interested in tax accounting and have experience with tax preparation software. I'm also an avid runner and enjoy spending time outdoors.
Question Overview: This question reveals how the applicant handles difficult situations with coworkers or clients. The applicant should explain how they handled the situation and what they learned from it.
Sample Answer: I had to work with a vendor who was very difficult to get along with. I tried to be as polite and professional as possible, but I also stood my ground when he was being unreasonable. I learned that it's important to be assertive, but not aggressive.
Question Overview: This question gives you insight into the applicant's availability and flexibility. Look for a response that shows the applicant is willing to work around your schedule.
Sample Answer: I'm available any time after 3 p.m. on weekdays. I'm also available on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Question Overview: The interviewer wants to know if you've done your research on the company and have a good understanding of its goals and objectives.
Sample Answer: I read the annual report and looked at the company's website to learn about its products and services. I also read about the company in industry publications to learn about its goals and objectives.
Question Overview: Diversity in the workplace is a hot topic, and it's important for employers to know how their employees will react to different situations. This question is designed to reveal how the applicant will respond to a situation where they need to work with people from different backgrounds.
Sample Answer: I would try to understand the person's background and what they're trying to accomplish. I would also try to find common ground with them. I would make sure that I'm being respectful of their culture and beliefs, and I would also make sure that they're being respectful of mine.
Question Overview: This question reveals how the applicant handles difficult situations and how they communicate with others. Look for a response that shows the applicant's ability to remain calm and use effective communication techniques.
Sample Answer: I had a client who was upset about the amount of taxes that were withheld from his paycheck. He was angry and wanted to speak with the owner of the company. I explained that I was the owner and he could speak with me. I listened to his concerns and explained why we withheld the taxes in that amount. He understood my reasoning and was satisfied with my explanation.
Question Overview: This is a fun question that gives you insight into the applicant's personality. Look for an answer that shows the applicant's sense of humor and ability to work with others.
Sample Answer: I would hope that my boss would find a way to bring me back to life. If he couldn't, I'm sure he'd find someone else to fill my shoes.
Question Overview: Accountants need to be able to accurately record and categorize expenses. This question gives you insight into how the applicant categorizes and records expenses.
Sample Answer: I would record the lease expense as an operating expense. I would also record the lease payments as a liability on the balance sheet.
Question Overview: Accountants often need to lead a team of people, whether it's a small group of employees or a large department. The applicant should be able to provide an example of how they've led a team to accomplish a goal or overcome a challenge.
Sample Answer: I was the manager of the accounting department at my previous job. I was responsible for managing the team and making sure that we were all working on the most important projects. I had to make sure that everyone was working efficiently and that they were getting along with each other.
Question Overview: This question gives you insight into the applicant's interest in the position and their motivation for applying. Look for answers that show a genuine interest in the company and a desire to perform well in the role.
Sample Answer: I've been interested in working with your company for a long time. I've been impressed by your commitment to customer service and your dedication to providing a quality product. I'm excited about the opportunity to work with your team.
Question Overview: Accountants often have to adjust their schedules to accommodate unexpected events. The applicant should be able to explain how they handled the situation and what they learned from the experience.
Sample Answer: I had a meeting scheduled with a client, but I was called into an emergency meeting with my boss. I rescheduled the client meeting for later in the week and apologized for missing it. I learned that I need to be more flexible with my schedule and make sure that I have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens.
Question Overview: Accountants often have to type information into a computer, so it's important to know how fast and accurately they can type. This question also reveals whether the applicant has experience with a particular software package or accounting system.
Sample Answer: I can type at a rate of 60 words per minute, and I have experience using QuickBooks Online.