Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Collections Supervisor? No worries! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Collections Supervisor interview questions as well as some examples of how to answer. Read on!
What experience do you have (if any) as a Collections Supervisor?
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
Things are changing quickly in our industry. What do you feel are the biggest challenges within the role of Collections Supervisor?
There are a variety of ways to answer this one. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. 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
What do you to ensure error free work?
While we all make mistakes, accountants can afford no such luxury. While you may be a caped crusader with superhuman error-free work skills, your interviewer won’t buy it. What your interviewer seeks here is a process for quality control.
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?
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:
A client had struggled with x for nearly a decade until I was able to clearly present the issue visually – a lightbulb went off, and the clients business is better than ever
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. The interviewer here is looking for one thing in particular: how you reacted in the situation. 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
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. Like many non-valid responses, your statement ‘yes I am a detail oriented person’ is not going to cut it.
Answer Sample:
A careful review of x revealed that y and z were out of order, ultimately preventing a costly audit
Which online tools, cloud software, or other accounting specific platforms 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. If your experience lies in a single – or outdated platform, be sure you are familiar with the current standards. Do some research and investigate new platforms or recent developments in the software field.
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. 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 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 let go, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama at all costs.
Answer Sample:
It was time for me to move on, and I feel as though I am ready for a new challenge