Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a Student Chartered Accountant? Don’t sweat it! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common Student Chartered Accountant interview questions along with sample answers. Check them out below (and good luck!)
What experience do you have (if any) as a Student Chartered Accountant?
Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate 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 this way, you can turn a simple ‘no’ into an opportunity to demonstrate your awareness of related 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
As we move into the future, what challenges do you feel our industry is facing, especially the role of Student Chartered Accountant?
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:
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 systems have you developed to reduce/eliminate errors in your 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 your interviewer seeks here is a process for quality control.
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!
Tell me about a time you used graphs, charts, and data to drive home 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. A great example here would be anything relating to a decision where your data made a difference.
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?
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. 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.
Give me an example of when your attention (or lack of attention) affected the outcome of a project. Why?
Details, details, details! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Here, your interviewer is looking for examples.
Answer Sample:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
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. Spend a night and compile names of cutting edge platforms, and mention these along with their purpose to your interviewer.
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?
Work culture is huge and for good reason these days. It’s more than simply ‘the way things are done’, it’s how things are done and why. 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
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 subject to downsizing or let go for other reasons, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama regardless of how tempting it may be.
Answer Sample:
My last position came to an end rather organically, and its now time to seek new opportunities