Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Accountant supervisor? Don’t sweat it! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Accountant supervisor interview questions with advice on how to reply. Check them out below (and good luck!)
Do you have any experience working as a Accountant supervisor?
Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate 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. Your interviewer will appreciate your ability to relate skills gained in one position to another.
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
Things are changing quickly in our industry. What do you feel are the biggest challenges within the role of Accountant supervisor?
To be certain, a wide range of answers are acceptable here. 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
How do you minimize the risk for errors in your work?
To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. While you may be a caped crusader with superhuman error-free work skills, your interviewer won’t buy it. What they’re looking for here is some sort of system of checks and balances.
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?
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:
Our department had been struggling for years, but by clearly illustrating the relationship between x and y, we corrected and showed record improvements in the next quarter
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. 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
Detail is critical in our industry – what do feel makes you a detail oriented person, and why?
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:
A careful review of x revealed that y and z were out of order, ultimately preventing a costly audit
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. Spend a night and compile names of cutting edge platforms, and mention these along with their purpose to your interviewer.
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
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 chatty extrovert, be mindful of your response here and how it may be perceived by the interviewer.
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?
This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Your need for better pay or indicating that your ‘old boss was an idiot’ 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:
It was time for me to move on, and I feel as though I am ready for a new challenge