Essential Senior Accountant Interview Questions & Answers:

1. Tell me what is a ledger in regards to accounting?

It is a complete set of accounts for a business entity

2. Explain your responsibilities in accounts receivable?

Discuss all your responsibilities. Focus on the skills and knowledge you used to perform these functions efficiently such as maintaining a high level of accuracy, good verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational skills, problem-solving skills, computer skills and a knowledge of accounting processes.

3. Tell me what role did you play in collections?

Again focus on the skills and abilities you bring to the collections function. Demonstrate how you have used your good interpersonal skills, perseverance, ability to managing conflict, negotiation skills and communication ability for successful collections.

4. Tell me what does the abbreviation m mean in accounting?

It has come to mean one million in general usage, although it used to mean one thousand (and one million was abbreviated “MM”)

5. Explain what are the steps to take before you approve an invoice for payment?

Show your understanding of the invoice verification process. Go through each step in detail such as checking that goods have been received in proper condition or services rendered in a satisfactory manner. Explain the importance of each step.

6. Explain about an invoice discrepancy you discovered and how you resolved it?

Be specific about the type of discrepancy. Discuss the steps you took to identify and sort it out such as obtaining and checking the original order. Focus on the skills required to resolve the discrepancy such as attention to detail, problem analysis and problem resolution.

7. Tell me what is accounting ethics?

Accounting ethics is primarily a field of applied ethics, the study of moral values and judgments as they apply to accountancy. It is an example of professional ethics.

8. Tell me what is creative accounting?

“Thinking outside the box” when such practice is not permitted. Creative accounting is actually a good description of the practice, as it tends to create a picture, which is not technically correct from the perspective of the information's intended user.

9. Explain me is financial accounting necessary?

Yes, the accounting calculates the cost of capital to the business. It compares the current, expected, and historic rates of return. Suppose a company is making 12% returns but borrowing money by using the owner's credit card at 22% be good to know that.

10. Explain why did you choose the A-levels you did?

The A-level subjects you chose are largely irrelevant, so answer this question honestly, although A levels which demand numeracy, analytical skills and communication skills may help.

If you have not done A levels, but entered university by some other route such as an Access course, explain why this was so – you may find the selectors will in this case put a lot of weight on your degree performance.

A-levels are close to the heart of Accountancy firms. This is because your performance in the profession's examinations have been shown to correlate quite closely to A-level examination performance. Many firms will have a points requirement, but will also be interested in your reasoning behind the choice of subjects.