Pension plans administrator Job Interview Questions & Answers

Our Experts
Written by Our Experts

Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Pension plans administrator? No worries! Here you can find some of the most often asked Pension plans administrator interview questions as well as some examples of how to answer. Check em out below and thank us later!

What experience do you have as a Pension plans administrator?

A straightforward question that requires an honest answer – list experience you have as it pertains 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:

I believe that in order to be an effective x you really require a great deal of y. In college, I worked with z for 2 years and really belive I gained a strong sense of what its like to succeed in x

As we move into the future, what challenges do you feel our industry is facing, especially the role of Pension plans administrator?

There are a variety of ways to answer this one. 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:

Like many things, I belive that with change comes opportunity

What do you to ensure error free work?

To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. What they’re looking for here is some sort of system of checks and balances.

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?

While it may be the epitomy of ‘nerdery’, story telling through data is a critical skill for those in the financial profession. The key to answering this question is focusing on the outcome of data you furnished – and why it mattered.

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?

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

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:

A careful review of x revealed that y and z were out of order, ultimately preventing a costly audit

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 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:

Most of my experience is with x, but I downloaded a demo of y and really think it warrants a closer look

Culture is important to us here. Which style of work enviornment do feel most productive in?

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 expectations and accountability are in place, and equally enjoy a balance of working solo / working as a team”

Why are you leaving your last financial industry / accounting position?

An innocent question, but deadly 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:

Working at x was a great experience for a vareity of reasons, but now its time to seek out new challenges

About the author

Our Experts

Our Experts

The Accounting Path's in house experts draw upon a broad network of professionals to bring you the most up to date information what’s happening in the accounting world.