Internal Audit Supervisor Job Interview Questions & Answers

Our Experts
Written by Our Experts

Sweating about an interview coming up where you’re going to be applying as a Internal Audit Supervisor ? We’ve got you covered! On this page, we’ve listed some of the most common Internal Audit Supervisor interview questions along with sample answers. Read on!

Do you have any experience working as a Internal Audit Supervisor ?

A straightforward question that requires an honest answer – list experience you have as it pertains to the position you’re applying for. Of course, on the off chance you don’t have any experience in the role, plan ahead and have some examples of tangentially related experience. In this way, you can turn a simple ‘no’ into an opportunity to demonstrate your awareness of related skillsets.

Answer Sample:

While my experience with x is limited, while working under y at my last job I really got to learn the ropes about z

As we move into the future, what challenges do you feel our industry is facing, especially the role of Internal Audit Supervisor ?

There are a variety of ways to answer this one. These days, mentioning Artificial Intelligence, software, and related items should do well. Regardless of your answer, be sure to have something to backup your responses.

Answer Sample:

Its hard to know for sure with industry factors such as x and y changing so many things – all I can say is that Im excited for the challenges that come with that

What systems have you developed to reduce/eliminate errors in your work?

While we all make mistakes, accountants can afford no such luxury. While you may be a caped crusader with superhuman error-free work skills, your interviewer won’t buy it. What your interviewer seeks here is a process for quality control.

Answer Sample:

Rain or shine, I always make sure that x is reviewed 3 times over and referenced against y before it goes out the door

Tell me about a time you used numbers to tell an effective story?

The truth is in the numbers. While it may be the epitomy of ‘nerdery’, story telling through data is a critical skill for those in the financial profession. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.

Answer Sample:

A client had struggled with x for nearly a decade until I was able to clearly present the issue visually – a lightbulb went off, and the clients business is better than ever

Have you ever had to give someone difficult feedback?

We all love praise, and we all dislike hearing our work criticized. Any competent interviewer in the accounting profession understands that mistakes happen. What you’re going to want to do here is be sure to let the interviewer know what you did in reaction to this feedback. Was there denial? Deflection? By dealing with difficult situations calmly and with full accountability, you demonstrate qualities every employer loves.

Answer Sample:

No one likes these situations, but Ive found that dealing with it factually and without predjudice tends to be the best approach

Give me an example of when your attention (or lack of attention) affected the outcome of a project. Why?

The devil is in the details – and even more so with accounting! You’d be hard pressed to find any job in the accounting & finance industry where being detail oriented isn’t a major requirement. Like many non-valid responses, your statement ‘yes I am a detail oriented person’ is not going to cut it.

Answer Sample:

My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year

Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?

You’d be hard pressed to find an accounting firm these days where software isn’t at the cornerstone of how they operate. In the event that you don’t have experience with popular software, familiarize yourself with industry standards ahead of time. Do some research and investigate new platforms or recent developments in the software field.

Answer Sample:

The bulk of my experience lies with the x platform, but Im fascinated with some of what the y system is capable of

Regarding culture, what environment do you feel you do your best work in?

Work culture is huge and for good reason these days. Many studies prove that hiring for culture first and ability second yields far superior results. While you may be a chatty extrovert, be mindful of your response here and how it may be perceived by the interviewer.

Answer Sample:

I succeed when expectations and accountability are in place, and equally enjoy a balance of working solo / working as a team”

What made you leave your last job – and why are you choosing us?

This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ at your last job may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Regardless of the reason your employment ceased to be, keep it on point and do not get negative here.

Answer Sample:

It was time for me to move on, and I feel as though I am ready for a new challenge

About the author

Our Experts

Our Experts

The Accounting Path's in house experts draw upon a broad network of professionals to bring you the most up to date information what’s happening in the accounting world.