Preparing for an accounting job interview is important to help you stand out from other candidates and make a good impression.
We've compiled some tips to help you prepare:
Research the company
Learn as much as you can about the company, its products and services, and its mission. Understand the company's industry and its place within it, and try to be familiar with the company's recent news and any relevant current initiatives.
Review the job requirements Understand the job requirements and responsibilities and prepare examples of how you have demonstrated the necessary skills and qualifications in the past.
Brush up on your accounting knowledge Review and practice basic accounting concepts and principles, such as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), financial statements, budgeting, cash flows and forecasting. If payroll or taxation knowledge are part of the job criteria, ensure you are up to speed!
Be familiar with the software Be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency with accounting software such as Xero, MYOB or Quickbooks. If you are not familiar with the specific software the company uses, take the time to learn the basics.
Prepare answers to common interview questions
Be ready to answer common interview questions such as why you want the job, what interests you about the company, what makes you a good fit for the position, etc. It's inevitable you'll be asked what you consider to be some of your professional career highlights. For example, computerising internal processes, improving management reporting, lifting productivity, training staff, reducing operating expenses, working on tenders etc.
Plan to ask questions
Prepare questions to ask your interviewer about the company, the team, and the
position. This will show your interest in the company and the role, and will help you gather information that can help you make an informed decision about whether to accept a job offer.
Show your attention to detail Accounting requires a high level of attention to detail. Be prepared to give examples of how you have demonstrated your attention to detail in past work experiences.
Highlight relevant qualifications and professional accreditations and memberships If you have any relevant certifications or qualifications, such as a CPA, ACA or IPA, degrees or diplomas, mention them in the interview and don't forget to include any webinars or short courses you've undertaken..
Dress and show up on time Make sure you are dressed professionally and arrive at the interview location on time. Being punctual and professional in your appearance will make a good first impression.
By following these tips, you will be well-prepared for your accounting job interview and increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and landing the job.
Philip Seigel CPA FFIN, Comdex Training, November 2022
Related articles and links
Complimentary online accounting tests https://www.comdex.com.au/assessments
Job Interviews Q&A https://www.comdex.com.au/job-interviews
Instructor led one day class Xero In-A-Day
Accounting Terminology https://www.comdex.com.au/post/accounting-terms-explained-briefly
Don't Ignore the Balance Sheet https://www.comdex.com.au/post/why-the-balance-sheet-is-important
Hi, could you tell me how to set up the microphone in Zoom before the interview? This would be very helpful, I have my first online interview in a couple of days. You can record your screen using the free Movavi Screen Recorder or email me to tell me how to do it. I hope for your feedback.
Great tips! Keep them coming please