Top interview questions to expect

1. Describe a challenging audit situation and how you overcame it.
2. Explain a time when you had to manage a project from start to finish.
3. Tell me about a recent instance where you had to deal with a difficult client.
4. Was there a time you made an error at work and how did you handle it?
5. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest accounting regulations and standards?
6. Tell me about a time you effectively analyzed and interpreted financial data.
7. Give me an example of a time you demonstrated strong attention to detail.

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

The STAR method is a commonly used framework for answering behavioral interview questions. STAR stands for:

* Situation: Describe the situation you were in.
* Task: Explain the task that you were responsible for.
* Action: Describe the actions you took to complete the task.
* Result: Share the outcome of your actions.

Using the STAR method can help you provide structured and detailed answers that clearly demonstrate your skills and abilities. Here’s an example of how you can use the STAR method to answer a behavioral interview question:

Question: Tell me about a time you had to manage a project from start to finish.

Answer:

Situation: During my previous role as an accountant at a small business, I was tasked with managing the year-end audit.

Task: My responsibilities included coordinating with the audit team, gathering and analyzing financial data, and ensuring that all required reports were submitted on time.

Action: I created a detailed project plan, assigned tasks to team members, and conducted regular meetings to track progress. I also proactively addressed any challenges that arose, such as obtaining necessary documentation from clients.

Result: The audit was completed successfully and on schedule, with no material findings. My efforts were praised by my manager, and I received a bonus for my exceptional performance.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Describe a challenging audit situation and how you overcame it.

Example Answer:

Situation: During an audit of a large manufacturing company, I discovered several discrepancies in the company’s financial statements.

Task: I was responsible for investigating the discrepancies and determining their cause.

Action: I conducted interviews with key personnel, reviewed supporting documentation, and performed additional analyses. I also consulted with my supervisor and other experts to help me understand the issues.

Result: I was able to identify the root cause of the discrepancies and recommend corrective actions. My findings were accepted by the company’s management, and the audit was completed successfully.

Why this answer is strong: This answer clearly demonstrates the candidate’s strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to work independently and collaborate with others.

2. Explain a time when you had to manage a project from start to finish.

Example Answer:

Situation: In my previous role, I was tasked with implementing a new accounting system for the company.

Task: I was responsible for leading the project team, developing the project plan, and ensuring that the system was implemented on time and within budget.

Action: I worked closely with the project team to gather requirements, select a vendor, and configure the system. I also provided training to employees and managed the transition from the old system to the new system.

Result: The project was completed successfully and on schedule, and the new system was well-received by employees. My efforts were praised by my manager, and I received a promotion for my exceptional performance.

Why this answer is strong: This answer showcases the candidate’s strong project management skills, as well as their ability to lead and motivate a team.

3. Tell me about a recent instance where you had to deal with a difficult client.

Example Answer:

Situation: During my previous role, I had a client who was very demanding and often made unreasonable requests.

Task: I was responsible for managing the relationship with this client and ensuring that their needs were met.

Action: I took the time to understand the client’s needs and concerns. I also communicated regularly with the client and kept them updated on the status of their projects. I also worked with my team to develop creative solutions to meet the client’s needs.

Result: I was able to build a strong relationship with the client and resolve their concerns. The client was so impressed with my service that they increased their business with our firm.

Why this answer is strong: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s strong interpersonal skills and their ability to build relationships with difficult clients.

4. Was there a time you made an error at work and how did you handle it?

Example Answer:

Situation: During my previous role, I made an error in a financial statement that I was preparing.

Task: I was responsible for identifying and correcting the error before it was submitted to the client.

Action: I immediately notified my supervisor of the error. I also worked with my team to investigate the cause of the error and develop a plan to prevent similar errors from occurring in the future.

Result: The error was corrected before it was submitted to the client. My supervisor was impressed with my quick action and my willingness to take responsibility for my mistake. I also received a bonus for my exceptional performance.

Why this answer is strong: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s strong ethical standards and their ability to learn from their mistakes.

5. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest accounting regulations and standards?

Example Answer:

Situation: It is important for accountants to stay up-to-date with the latest accounting regulations and standards.

Task: I am responsible for staying informed about new developments in the accounting profession.

Action: I regularly read accounting journals and newsletters. I also attend accounting conferences and seminars. I also take continuing education courses to ensure that my knowledge is up-to-date.

Result: I am able to provide my clients with the most up-to-date advice and guidance. I am also able to help my clients comply with all applicable accounting regulations and standards.

Why this answer is strong: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s strong commitment to professional development and their desire to provide their clients with the best possible service.

6. Tell me about a time you effectively analyzed and interpreted financial data.

Example Answer:

Situation: During my previous role, I was tasked with analyzing the financial data of a company that was considering acquiring another company.

Task: I was responsible for determining whether the acquisition would be a good financial decision for the company.

Action: I gathered and analyzed financial data from both companies. I also conducted interviews with key personnel from both companies. I then presented my findings to the company’s management team.

Result: My analysis showed that the acquisition would be a good financial decision for the company. The company’s management team agreed with my recommendation, and the acquisition was completed successfully.

Why this answer is strong: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s strong analytical skills and their ability to interpret financial data.

7. Give me an example of a time you demonstrated strong attention to detail.

Example Answer:

Situation: During my previous role, I was responsible for preparing the company’s financial statements.

Task: It was important to ensure that the financial statements were accurate and complete.

Action: I took my time to carefully review all of the financial data. I also worked with my team to ensure that all of the necessary disclosures were included in the financial statements.

Result: The financial statements were prepared accurately and completely. The company’s management team was pleased with my work, and I received a bonus for my exceptional performance.

Why this answer is strong: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s strong attention to detail and their ability to produce high-quality work.