Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a Financial Services Department Accounting Manager? No worries! On this page, we’ve listed some of the most common Financial Services Department Accounting Manager interview questions as well as some examples of how to answer. Check em out below and thank us later!
Do you have any experience working as a Financial Services Department Accounting Manager?
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. 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:
I believe the core requirement for x is y – and through my volunteer work I gained a ton of experience in how x fundamentally relates to y
Things are changing quickly in our industry. What do you feel are the biggest challenges within the role of Financial Services Department Accounting Manager?
To be certain, a wide range of answers are acceptable here. These days, mentioning Artificial Intelligence, software, and related items should do well. 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?
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 may sound funny, Ive developed my own system for quality control that I call the x – its never let me down yet!
Describe a situation you needed to use data to prove a point?
The truth is in the numbers. Here, it isn’t about you being right or a client being wrong, it’s about finding the facts through 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:
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
Have you ever had to give someone difficult feedback?
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. 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?
Always with the details! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.
Answer Sample:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
Every modern accounting practice will require some level of proficiency when it comes to software. 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
What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?
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. You’ll want to be careful here, indicating that you are able to thrive in a variety of work enviornments.
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
What made you leave your last job – and why are you choosing us?
Tread lightly! This question can be a dealbreaker if answered improperly. Your desire for better compensation or venting about the ‘terrible leadership’ 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:
It was time for me to move on, and I feel as though I am ready for a new challenge