chartered accountant (CA) Job Interview Questions & Answers

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Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a chartered accountant (CA)? Don’t sweat it! Here you can find some of the most often asked chartered accountant (CA) interview questions with advice on how to reply. Read on!

What experience do you have (if any) as a chartered accountant (CA)?

This one’s pretty simple – discuss your experience as it relates to the job you’re applying for. What happens if you don’t have any experience? By thinking about the question ahead of time, you can have a reply at your fingertips. 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

As we move into the future, what challenges do you feel our industry is facing, especially the role of chartered accountant (CA)?

No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. These days, mentioning Artificial Intelligence, software, and related items should do well. Regardless of your answer, be sure to have something to backup your responses.

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 systems have you developed to reduce/eliminate 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:

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?

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. 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?

Difficult feedback is difficult for a reason. Your interviewer realizes that everyone makes mistakes, and they’re not looking to hang you out to dry. The interviewer here is looking for one thing in particular: how you reacted in the situation. Was there ownership of a mistake, or deflection? By showing your cool in the reaction itself, you demonstrate leadership characteristics that employers love.

Answer Sample:

Ill never forget the time my old boss talked to me about x. The way it was handled was totally professional, and thats been my model ever since.

Detail is critical in our industry – what do feel makes you a detail oriented person, and why?

The devil is in the details – and even more so with accounting! 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?

These days, your mastery of accounting software is practically expected. If your experience is limited, make sure you at least have a basic understanding of industry standards prior to the interview. 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?

Work culture is huge and for good reason these days. Many studies prove that hiring for culture first and ability second yields far superior results. 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

Without revealing too much info – why are you leaving your last job?

An innocent question, but deadly 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 let go, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama at all costs.

Answer Sample:

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

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