Sweating about an interview coming up where you’re going to be applying as a Accounts Payable/Receivable Supervisor? Don’t sweat it! On this page, we’ve listed some of the most common Accounts Payable/Receivable Supervisor interview questions as well as some examples of how to answer. Check em out below and thank us later!
Do you have any experience working as a Accounts Payable/Receivable Supervisor?
Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate to the position you’re applying for. Don’t get caught off guard by this question should you not any actual experience. Plan ahead and have something relatable to share. In this way, you can turn a simple ‘no’ into an opportunity to demonstrate your awareness of related skillsets.
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 Accounts Payable/Receivable Supervisor?
There are a variety of ways to answer this one. AI, automation, and inexpensive labor are all interesting items to bring up. However, be prepared to explain why you answered the way you did – and do some research ahead of time.
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?
To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. 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 may sound funny, Ive developed my own system for quality control that I call the x – its never let me down yet!
Tell me about a time you used numbers to tell an effective story?
Numbers don’t lie. 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
Have you ever had to give someone difficult 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. Was there denial? Deflection? By dealing with difficult situations calmly and with full accountability, you demonstrate qualities every employer loves.
Answer Sample:
Ive been on both ends of critical feedback, and clear, consice presnetation of facts is paramount, as is accountability
Give me an example of when your attention (or lack of attention) affected the outcome of a project. Why?
Details, details, details! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Here, your interviewer is looking for examples.
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?
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. Do some research and investigate new platforms or recent developments in the software field.
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?
Work culture is huge and for good reason these days. Simply put, culture fit means that your values are in alignment with your prospective employer’s. 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, consise direction and find a balance of solo effort and working alongside a team is when Im most productive
What made you leave your last job – and why are you choosing us?
Tread lightly! This question can be a dealbreaker if answered improperly. 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