Sweating about an interview coming up where you’re going to be applying as a financial administrator? Don’t sweat it! Here you can find some of the most often asked financial administrator interview questions along with sample answers. Check them out below (and good luck!)
What experience do you have (if any) as a financial administrator?
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 financial administrator?
No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. 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
What do you to ensure error free work?
While we all make mistakes, accountants can afford no such luxury. 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?
The truth is in the numbers. While it may be the epitomy of ‘nerdery’, story telling through data is a critical skill for those in the financial profession. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.
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?
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. 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:
Ive been on both ends of critical feedback, and clear, consice presnetation of facts is paramount, as is accountability
Detail is critical in our industry – what do feel makes you a detail oriented person, and why?
Always with the details! 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:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which accounting specific software are you familiar with?
These days, your mastery of accounting software is practically expected. 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:
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?
Culture is king these days, and for good reason. Simply put, culture fit means that your values are in alignment with your prospective employer’s. While you may be a chatty extrovert, be mindful of your response here and how it may be perceived by the interviewer.
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?
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. 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