Asking the Right Questions to Accountant Applicants

Posted on: September 16, 2016 by Huntersure

The interview process is always a tedious one. While standard interview questions are a good way to gauge the applicant’s interest and skill set, it’s hard to identify whether or not that person is the right fit for the company. As accounting is a critical component to the success of any business, ensure your clients ask the following pertinent questions to their candidates to find the right fit. Furthermore, ensure each of your clients is secured with a comprehensive Accounting Professional Liability policy.

1. How do you stay on top of current laws and regulations? According to Small Business Trends, Given the rate of change in the accounting and finance industry, it’s crucial to hire accounting and finance professionals who make a point of staying informed. In fact, top candidates will be able to tell you how they monitor the latest developments, whether it’s through subscriptions to industry publications, memberships in professional organizations, or attendance at accounting conferences and webinars.
2. Explain how you recover from accounting mistakes? This is a great way to gauge the candidate’s level of ownership and how they recover from mistakes. Being forthcoming and honest are both necessary traits of any successful accountant.
3. How do you feel about presenting financial information to non-financial employees? Have the candidate identify how they relate their findings to other professionals within the company. As other employees might not be familiar with the jargon of the accountants, it’s important for them to know how to communicate important information clearly.
4. What software programs are you familiar with? Determine the applicant’s experience and skill set by asking which accounting programs he or she is comfortable using.
5. Why did you choose to be an accountant? Look for a more in depth response other than they wanted a stable paycheck. Look for someone with a passion for the industry and someone who wants to grow and develop their skill set.

At Huntersure, we offer specially designed programs for accountant firms that provides coverage for third party claims as a result of negligent acts, errors, performance, and services. For more information about our products and services, contact us today at (855) 585-6255.

Posted in: Accounting blog

Tagged: accountant applicant questions accountant hiring process Accountant Professional Liability