7 Interview Tips to Win the Accounting Talent War
October 14, 2015 2:23 PM
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1. Dont Wait to Interview
Waiting until there is an immediate need may cause hiring managers to overlook some negative qualities they might not normally and hire subpar people. Accounting firms that are consistently interviewing can get a better understanding of the current job market and what types of candidates are out there.
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2. Conduct Multiple Rounds of Interviews
Have candidates meet with three to four employees, and if possible, the CFO or another executive at the company. In order for accounting firms to hire strategically, they need to be sure they are identifying people who will stick around and grow within the company.
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3. Be Unconventional
Ask questions that dont pertain to the position, the company, or the candidates resume. The way a candidate reacts shows how they think on their feet and gives an idea of their personality. Pay attention to how they communicate when they arent speaking in technical terms.
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4. Have Someone Interrupt the Interview
This gives you a chance to see how the candidate responds when they are caught off guard. Are they flustered? Do they stand up and introduce themselves to the new person? The way the candidate responds provides clues for how they may react when thrown a curveball in the office or when they are under pressure.
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5. Utilize Assessments
Accounting professionals need to possess critical thinking skills and be detail-oriented. There are different tests designed to determine a candidates competency in these areas. This provides another layer of insight into a candidates potential.
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6. Evaluate the Candidates Questions
If a candidate is asking questions that can easily be found on a company websitesuch as When was the company founded? or What do you specialize in?you know they havent put a lot of thought into the interview. The best candidates ask thought-provoking, insightful questions.
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7. Dont Sugarcoat Anything
You want to make sure a potential employee is the right fit for your unique company culture and if you cant be upfront with them about the environment and the role, you wont have much success.