Accountant interview questions and answers in English

B1 answer

I'm an accounts assistant at a small building company. I've worked there for three years. I process supplier invoices, check payments and help with the month-end reports. I'm careful with figures and I like solving problems. Now I'd like to grow and take on more responsibility in a bigger finance team.

B2 answer

I've worked in accounting for four years, first in accounts payable and for the last two years as an assistant accountant at a logistics firm. I prepare the monthly bank reconciliations, post journals and help the senior accountant with the year-end audit. Last year I also helped move our invoices to a new system. I'm now studying for my professional exams, and I'm looking for a role where I can work on the full month-end close.

B1 answer

I want to work here because your company is growing fast, and I would like to learn in a busy finance department. I read that you support staff with their exams. I am accurate and reliable, and I always meet my deadlines. I think I can help with your invoices and reports.

B2 answer

I'm interested in this role because your business is expanding into new markets, which means more complex reporting and more to learn. I also like that the job covers both management accounts and the audit, so I wouldn't only do one task. In my current job I reduced late supplier payments by setting up a weekly check, and I'd like to bring that careful, organised approach to your finance department.

B1 answer

First I check the figures against the original documents, like invoices and bank statements. Then I do a reconciliation, so I know the totals match. I am very careful with details. Before I send a report, I check it again the next morning, because I often see small mistakes with fresh eyes.

B2 answer

I'm careful by nature, but I also build checks into the process. First, I reconcile every account against an independent source, such as the bank statement or a supplier statement. Then I compare the figures with last month and look into any big difference. I also use simple control totals in my spreadsheets. Because of this routine, my reports have had no corrections from the auditors for the last two years.

B1 answer

Last year I noticed that we paid one supplier invoice twice. I had to find out why and get the money back. I checked the payment records and I called the supplier. They agreed to send a refund. In the end we got the money back, and I added a check for duplicate invoices.

B2 answer

A few months ago, during the month-end close, I noticed that our travel expenses were almost double the usual figure. I had to find the error before the report went to the directors. I checked the ledger line by line and found that one large invoice had been posted twice. I corrected the entry, told my manager and added a duplicate check to our process. Since then, we haven't had the same problem.

B1 answer

First I make a list of all my tasks and their deadlines. Then I start with the tasks other people need, like the bank reconciliations. I prepare some work before month-end, so it is easier. If I think something will be late, I tell my manager early.

B2 answer

I plan month-end before it starts. A week before, I prepare the accruals and check which invoices are still missing. On the first days, I deal with the tasks that other people depend on, such as the bank reconciliations and the payroll journal, and then move to the reports. I keep a checklist with times, and if anything looks late, I tell my manager straight away, so we can share the work in the team.

B1 answer

I use accounting software every day to post invoices and payments. I am good with spreadsheets. For example, I use lookups and pivot tables to check supplier balances. I learn new systems quickly. At my last job I learned a new payroll system in two weeks.

B2 answer

I've used two different accounting systems, one cloud-based and one on a local server, so I'm comfortable learning new software. My spreadsheet skills are strong: I use lookups, pivot tables and simple macros. For example, I built a spreadsheet that matches bank lines to open invoices, which cut our weekly reconciliation from three hours to about one. I'd like to learn more about reporting tools.

B1 answer

First I would politely say no. I understand that the manager wants good results, but the figures must be true. Then I would explain the rules and offer to add a note to the report. If they still ask, I would talk to the finance manager.

B2 answer

I'd stay calm and polite, because the manager may not understand the rules. First, I'd explain that I can't change a figure without evidence, as the accounts must be accurate and they are checked by the auditors. Then I'd offer an honest option, for example a comment explaining why the number is high this month. If they kept pushing, I'd report it to the finance director, because protecting the company's figures is part of my job.

B1 answer

Yes, I have two questions. Which accounting system does the team use every day? And is there support for new staff who are studying for their professional exams? I am studying now, and I would like to know how the team plans study days around month-end.

B2 answer

Yes, a couple, if that's all right. How is month-end divided in the team, and which parts would I be responsible for? Is the team planning any big changes to the systems this year? And what do you think makes someone successful in this finance department? I'd like to understand how the work is shared, so I could be useful from the first month.