Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Vice President? Don’t sweat it! Here you can find some of the most often asked Vice President interview questions with advice on how to reply. Check them out below (and good luck!)
What experience do you have (if any) as a Vice President?
This one’s pretty simple – discuss your experience as it relates to the job 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:
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
What are some of major challenges the accounting industry faces looking ahead? How will it impact the role of Vice President?
No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. No matter what you answer here, do some research ahead of time and be sure you can back up your answer.
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 do you to ensure error free work?
While we all make mistakes, accountants can afford no such luxury. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. What they’re seeking here is some method you deploy for QA.
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 numbers to tell an effective story?
The truth is in the numbers. What’s being asked for here is an example of when you were able to prove a point by providing truth through the data. The key to answering this question is focusing on the outcome of data you furnished – and why it mattered.
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.
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. 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. 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:
No one likes these situations, but Ive found that dealing with it factually and without predjudice tends to be the best approach
Would those that know you describe you as a detail oriented person? Why might they describe you that way?
Always with the details! 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 accounting specific software are you familiar with?
You’d be hard pressed to find an accounting firm these days where software isn’t at the cornerstone of how they operate. If your experience lies in a single – or outdated platform, be sure you are familiar with the current standards. Take some time to ensure you are able to to name popular applications, and have a solid idea of their purpose.
Answer Sample:
Most of my experience is with x, but I downloaded a demo of y and really think it warrants a closer look
Regarding culture, what environment do you feel you do your best work in?
Culture is king these days, and for good reason. 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”
Without revealing too much info – why are you leaving your last job?
This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Your desire for better compensation or venting about the ‘terrible leadership’ 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