This article provides accounting professionals with some tips on interviewing for an accounting job. Plus, though most interviews may be similar between industries, there are some questions accounting professionals may be asked that are specific to the accounting industry. Examples of such questions are included.

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	Also, ask questions about the accounting job you are interviewing for. Take this opportunity to learn more about the position and about the company. This will show the interviewer and employer that you are really interested in the accounting job.

Let’s admit it: interviews are nerve-wracking. I haven’t been on an interview in four years, and let me tell you, if I had to go on one today, I think I would have an anxiety attack. It’s hard, for me anyway, to be put in the spotlight, given the third degree, interrogated, and scrutinized. But the interview process is all part of the job-search process, and despite any fears you may be feeling, you have to go through with it.

So, listen up, accountants! There are ways to get through the interview with flying colors. First and foremost, be prepared. With the right information, you won’t be caught in an awkward moment or be caught off guard by a certain question.

Review the Job Description of the Accounting Position You Are Interviewing For

The job description will highlight the duties, tasks, and assignments you will be responsible for should you be hired. Learn the job description inside and out. This way, you’ll be able to answer the questions based on what you would be doing should you be hired. If the job description calls for knowing a certain accounting program, refer to that in your answers. That way, your answers will tell your interviewers much more than what they are asking for.

Tailor Your Answers to the Accounting Job You Are Interviewing For

With every question that you answer when interviewing for an accounting job, be sure to tailor your answer to the type of accounting job you are interviewing for. So if you are interviewing for an accounts payable clerk position, refer to the duties an accounts payable clerk is responsible for. This will show the interviewer that you are familiar with the duties of an accounts payable clerk. Also, ask questions about the accounting job you are interviewing for. Take this opportunity to learn more about the position and about the company. Again, this will show the interviewer and employer that you are really interested in the accounting job.

Sample Interview Questions for Accounting Jobs

Below are a few questions you may be asked during your interview. To guide you even further, I have grouped interview questions together according to various accounting jobs.

Accounts Payable

How many invoices do handle on a monthly basis?
What steps do you take to approve a payment on an invoice?
Tell me about a discrepancy you discovered and how you resolved it.
Tell me about a dispute you were involved in and how you resolved it.

Accounts Receivable

Tell me about all your responsibilities as an accounts receivable coordinator.
What information do you include in a bill for services?
Have you handled journal entries? If so, please explain your duties.

Cost Accounting

Tell me about all your responsibilities as a cost accountant.
Tell me how you handled a chargeback.
What are fixed, marginal, and variable costs?

Payroll Administrator

What distinguishes a contract employee from a full-time employee?
Did you handle payroll for part-time, full-time, and commissioned employees?
Tell me about all your responsibilities as a payroll administrator.
What system did you use to administer payroll?

Director of Accounting

What cost-cutting policies did you implement?
What types of hands-on accounting did you participate in?
What systems are you familiar with?

Conclusion

Be familiar with the questions that are specific to the accounting industry before you go on an interview for an accounting job.

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Sample Interview Questions for Accounting Jobs

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