tax auditor 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 tax auditor? We’ve got you covered! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common tax auditor interview questions with advice on how to reply. Check em out below and thank us later!

Do you have any experience working as a tax auditor?

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 doing this, you can actually turn your lack of experience into a showcase for your ability to relate and connect similar skillsets.

Answer Sample:

I believe the core requirement for x is y – and through my volunteer work I gained a ton of experience in how x fundamentally relates to y

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

To be certain, a wide range of answers are acceptable here. AI, automation, and inexpensive labor are all interesting items to bring up. Regardless of your answer, be sure to have something to backup your responses.

Answer Sample:

Like many things, I belive that with change comes opportunity

How do you minimize the risk for errors in your work?

Hey, no one is perfect – but when it comes to accounting & finance, perfection in numbers is expected. While you may be a caped crusader with superhuman error-free work skills, your interviewer won’t buy it. What they’re seeking here is some method you deploy for QA.

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

Describe a situation you needed to use data to prove a point?

The truth is in the numbers. Here, it isn’t about you being right or a client being wrong, it’s about finding the facts through data. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.

Answer Sample:

In a recent client meeting, by clearly visualizing some key figures we were able to save them $10s of thousands in tax payable.

Have you ever had to give someone difficult feedback?

One of the most difficult things to dispense – and receive – is critique of work. Anyone who has spent enough time in this industry realizes that human error is part of the job, and no one is perfect. Here, the important thing to do is let your interviewer know how you overcame this particular challenge. How accountable were the parties involved? Your ability to navigate though difficult situations will place you high on just about any accounting employer’s list.

Answer Sample:

Ive been on both ends of critical feedback, and clear, consice presnetation of facts is paramount, as is accountability

Would those that know you describe you as a detail oriented person? Why might they describe you that way?

Always with the details! As an accountant, this is a serious requirement. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.

Answer Sample:

By ensuring that x and y were carefully reviewed, the organization was able to save immensely on z

Which accounting specific software 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:

Most of my experience is with x, but I downloaded a demo of y and really think it warrants a closer look

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. You’ll want to be careful here, indicating that you are able to thrive in a variety of work enviornments.

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 subject to downsizing or let go for other reasons, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama regardless of how tempting it may be.

Answer Sample:

Working at x was a great experience for a vareity of reasons, but now its time to seek out new challenges

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.