What are Common Accounting Interview Questions?

Preparing answers to questions you think you might be asked is a common way to prepare for a job interview. Among accounting interview questions you may want to consider in preparing for a job interview for an accounting position are queries about the company with which you are interviewing. Others include questions about why you’re interested in the job and questions about your skills. Be prepared enough that your answers sound good to the interviewer, but not so prepared that your answers come off sounding rehearsed.

One of the big accounting interview questions you are likely to face — one many people overlook — is a question on what you know about the company you’re claiming to want to work for. As soon as you know you have an interview with a company, spend at least a few minutes researching it. Make sure you know what it does, how many people work for it, and how the company’s performance has been during the past few years. Knowing how to answer this question will show that you took the time to research it, and that you are genuinely interested in the company.

Another important accounting interview question is likely to demand an explanation about why you want to be an accountant. Answer this one honestly, but try not to sound too typical. Whatever your answer, make sure you refer to your skills and abilities along the way. For example, you might suggest that you want to be an accountant because you have a talent for it and enjoy it. It is also a good idea to refer back to the company by saying you would enjoy contributing to the success of the company for which you work.

The interviewer will also most likely ask you at least some questions about your skills and experience. Be prepared to discuss your strengths and any experience you have in accounting. Bring up your education briefly, but focus as much as possible on your real-world experience. Bring up any skills or qualities you know you have and the company is seeking.

Accounting interview questions may include one asking you to explain a weakness you have. First, only discuss your weaknesses if it is specifically requested. Then explain a small weakness you once had, but be sure to end on a positive note, explaining how working through that weakness made you a better accountant. Do not, under any circumstances, blame your previous boss for any of your own shortcomings.

Accounting interview questions are completely dependent on the person giving the interview. Make sure you get a feel for the interviewer's attitude before you answer. Some interviewers are casual and expect slight small talk, while others will expect a serious discussion about your qualifications. Be prepared for both and, when in doubt, keep it professional.