It is always important for new graduates, and working professionals looking to make a job change, be prepared and understand questions they as accounting professionals and candidates should expect during an interview. However, is it also equally important to develop a few questions of your own.
By developing a list of questions to ask potential employers, finance professionals demonstrate their knowledge and curiosity - and it ensures they are getting the information they need to make a good decision should a position be offered.
When working with accounting candidates, I always encourage them to ask questions in a variety of categories. If you limit your questions to just those about the finance team you might learn a good deal about the job, but nothing about the company.
The following are a few questions I encourage all finance professionals ask during the interview process:
Culture Club
- What policies or activities best illustrate your company culture?
- What is more valued in the organization: output or innovation?
- What do employees value most about working for your organization?
Future Focus
- What is the short and long term vision for the organization?
- What is the organization's biggest challenge currently?
- What is the organization's competitive advantage in the marketplace?
Success Stories
- What are the most important skills and attributes needed to be successful?
- What are common characteristics of successful employees?
- Describe someone previously in this position who made a difference?
Looking for a new position is difficult, but it is important to remember that you are shopping for a new organization as much as you are selling your skills. Good luck!