Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Chief Accounting Officer? Don’t sweat it! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Chief Accounting Officer interview questions along with sample answers. Read on!
What experience do you have as a Chief Accounting Officer?
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
What are some of major challenges the accounting industry faces looking ahead? How will it impact the role of Chief Accounting Officer?
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
What do you to ensure error free work?
Hey, no one is perfect – but when it comes to accounting & finance, perfection in numbers is expected. No, the company you are applying to isn’t expecting their employees to be flawless. 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. The key to answering this question is focusing on the outcome of data you furnished – and why it mattered.
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
Tell me about a time when you received difficult feedback. How did you react?
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. 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:
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! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Here, your interviewer is looking for examples.
Answer Sample:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
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 is limited, make sure you at least have a basic understanding of industry standards prior to the interview. 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
Culture is important to us here. Which style of work enviornment do feel most productive in?
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 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 expectations of me and my team, and find a balance of working individually as well as alongside a team is when Im most content
Why are you leaving your last financial industry / accounting position?
An innocent question, but deadly if answered improperly. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ 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