Sweating about an interview coming up where you’re going to be applying as a Credit Manager? Don’t sweat it! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Credit Manager interview questions along with sample answers. Check them out below (and good luck!)
What experience do you have (if any) as a Credit Manager?
A straightforward question that requires an honest answer – list experience you have as it pertains to the position 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. In doing this, you can actually turn your lack of experience into a showcase for your ability to relate and connect similar 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 Credit Manager?
To be certain, a wide range of answers are acceptable here. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. 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 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?
Numbers don’t lie. Here, it isn’t about you being right or a client being wrong, it’s about finding the facts through data. A great example here would be anything relating to a decision where your data made a difference.
Answer Sample:
In a recent client meeting, by clearly visualizing some key figures we were able to save them $10s of thousands in tax payable.
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. Here, the important thing to do is let your interviewer know how you overcame this particular challenge. 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:
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.
Would those that know you describe you as a detail oriented person? Why might they describe you that way?
The devil is in the details – and even more so with accounting! You’d be hard pressed to find any job in the accounting & finance industry where being detail oriented isn’t a major requirement. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.
Answer Sample:
By ensuring that x and y were carefully reviewed, the organization was able to save immensely on z
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
Every modern accounting practice will require some level of proficiency when it comes to software. 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:
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?
Every company wants to find the perfect culture match for their organization. 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
Why are you leaving your last financial industry / accounting position?
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. 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