Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a Accounting Specialist? We’ve got you covered! Here you can find some of the most often asked Accounting Specialist interview questions along with sample answers. Check em out below and thank us later!
What experience do you have as a Accounting Specialist?
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:
While my experience with x is limited, while working under y at my last job I really got to learn the ropes about z
What are some of major challenges the accounting industry faces looking ahead? How will it impact the role of Accounting Specialist?
There are a variety of ways to answer this one. These days, mentioning Artificial Intelligence, software, and related items should do well. 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
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. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. 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
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. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.
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
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. The interviewer here is looking for one thing in particular: how you reacted in the situation. 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?
Details, details, details! You’d be hard pressed to find any job in the accounting & finance industry where being detail oriented isn’t a major requirement. Here, your interviewer is looking for examples.
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. In the event that you don’t have experience with popular software, familiarize yourself with industry standards ahead of time. Take some time to ensure you are able to to name popular applications, and have a solid idea of their purpose.
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?
Culture is king these days, and for good reason. 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?
An innocent question, but deadly if answered improperly. 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:
My last position came to an end rather organically, and its now time to seek new opportunities