Strategic Planner Job Interview Questions & Answers

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Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Strategic Planner? No worries! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Strategic Planner interview questions as well as some examples of how to answer. Check them out below (and good luck!)

What experience do you have as a Strategic Planner?

Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate to the position you’re applying for. What happens if you don’t have any experience? By thinking about the question ahead of time, you can have a reply at your fingertips. In this way, you can turn a simple ‘no’ into an opportunity to demonstrate your awareness of related skillsets.

Answer Sample:

I believe that in order to be an effective x you really require a great deal of y. In college, I worked with z for 2 years and really belive I gained a strong sense of what its like to succeed in x

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

No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. These days, mentioning Artificial Intelligence, software, and related items should do well. However, be prepared to explain why you answered the way you did – and do some research ahead of time.

Answer Sample:

Like many things, I belive that with change comes opportunity

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

While we all make mistakes, accountants can afford no such luxury. No, the company you are applying to isn’t expecting their employees to be flawless. What your interviewer seeks here is a process for quality control.

Answer Sample:

While it sounds quirky, Ive developed my own system for QA that I call the x – its bailed me out more times than I can remember!

Tell me about a time you used graphs, charts, and data to drive home a point?

What’s being asked for here is an example of when you were able to prove a point by providing truth through the data. A great example here would be anything relating to a decision where your data made a difference.

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

Has there ever been a time you were required to deliver critical feedback?

We all love praise, and we all dislike hearing our work criticized. Any competent interviewer in the accounting profession understands that mistakes happen. Here, the important thing to do is let your interviewer know how you overcame this particular challenge. 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! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.

Answer Sample:

A careful review of x revealed that y and z were out of order, ultimately preventing a costly audit

Which online tools, cloud software, or other accounting specific platforms are you familiar with?

Every modern accounting practice will require some level of proficiency when it comes to software. If your experience is limited, make sure you at least have a basic understanding of industry standards prior to the interview. Do some research and investigate new platforms or recent developments in the software field.

Answer Sample:

Im proficient in x and y, but ive ready tons of good things about z and would love to learn more about it

What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?

Every company wants to find the perfect culture match for their organization. It’s more than simply ‘the way things are done’, it’s how things are done and why. While you may be a lone wolf, be careful how you answer this question should it fall out of alignment with the organization.

Answer Sample:

I succeed when given clear expectations of me and my team, and find a balance of working individually as well as alongside a team is when Im most content

Without revealing too much info – why are you leaving your last job?

Tread lightly! This question can be a dealbreaker if answered improperly. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ at your last job may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Even if you were let go, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama at all costs.

Answer Sample:

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

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