Interview Tips

Avoiding Interview Pitfalls

 

For job seekers, the interview is both an opportunity and a challenge. Nearly one-third (32 percent) of executives surveyed recently said applicants make more missteps at this stage of the hiring process than at any other. Twenty-one percent of executives polled believe the greatest number of errors occur on resumes.

 

CEO's were asked 'in which of the following job application areas do you feel candidates make the most mistakes?”
Their responses.

 


Not knowing enough about the company or position, displaying a poor attitude or inquiring about compensation prematurely can all leave a negative impression with hiring managers. For job seekers, the interview represents a time to shine. Thorough preparation - including researching the employer, rehearsing responses to common questions and understanding appropriate topics to discuss - is the key to avoiding potential pitfalls.

 

Often, how candidates behave during an interview is viewed as a barometer of how they will perform if hired. This is particularly true for accounting professionals, who must be able to present complex data and concepts to senior executives, clients and colleagues in other departments, many of whom may not have financial backgrounds. By effectively delivering information in a challenging situation such as the job interview, accountants can prove they possess the communication skills required to be successful.

 

Practicing with a trusted colleague before the interview can help candidates ensure they are prepared. 

 

Interview Tips - Be Prepared to Answer Questions

  • Tell me about yourself. Be prepared to respond to the question, "Tell me about yourself," by creating a 15-second "sound bite" that describes your professional background and strongest skills in two or three sentences. Vary your response according to the specific job opportunity and offer a brief description of why you would be a good fit for the position. One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to rehearse with a tape recorder and then critique your answers.
  • Tell me about your background, accomplishments, strengths and weaknesses. Employers who ask this question are usually looking for a short synopsis of your experience. Be sure to demonstrate how you've developed professionally and be objective when listing your strengths and weaknesses.
  • How would you describe your most recent job performance? Hiring managers tend to ask this question in order to gauge your level of enthusiasm for the work that you do. They're also looking for a direct connection between your current position and the one for which you're applying.
  • What interests you about our company? This question seems straightforward, but it can sometimes be difficult to answer if you haven't thought about it beforehand. There are two important factors to include in your answer. The first is to use your knowledge of the company to show your sincere interest. Second, give a specific reason the position for which you're applying appeals to you (other than the fact that you need a job).
  • Who was your most difficult boss and why? It's imperative to be as diplomatic as possible when answering this question. Avoid becoming too personal; instead, focus on your previous supervisor's management style and the manner in which he or she communicated. The interviewer is looking for some indication as to how well you would get along with your future boss, if you were hired.
  • What outside activities are most significant to your personal development? Many employers ask this question to see what kind of balance you are looking for between your personal and professional lives. While it's good to list one or two activities, be careful not to list too many activities as the employer may wonder if outside interest will interfere with your work.

  • Where do you see yourself in five years? In ten years? Avoid mapping out a detailed plan when answering this question. Instead, describe what you feel is the next logical step or steps in your career path.

 

Interview Tips - Ask Questions

  • Be prepared to ask questions of the hiring manager during the interview which are based on your research of the company and industry. Insightful and pertinent questions will demonstrate that you've done your homework and that you're serious about the position. And your questions will help both of you determine if you are the right match for the job.
  • If you don't understand a question or need a moment to think about it, say so. Don’t pretend you have the answer if you don’t and definitely don’t stumble through the answer. Take your time.
  • Don't answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible.
  • Don't make negative remarks about present or former employers. When explaining your reasons for leaving, communicate your rationale professionally.
  • Don't over-answer questions. If the interviewer steers the conversation into controversial - or even illegal - topics, try to do more listening than speaking. Keep your responses non-committal.
  • Know what questions NOT to ask. Don't inquire about vacation time, benefits or your office space at the first interview. These questions are appropriate only after the hiring manager has expressed serious interest in offering you the position.

 

Here are some questions you might ask.

  • What would I be expected to accomplish in this position?
  • What are the greatest challenges in this position?
  • How do you think I fit the position?

 

Interview Tips - Closing

  • Be proactive.
  • Reiterate your interest in the job and the company by asking about the next step in the process.
  • If you get the impression the interview is not going well, don't let your discouragement show. Remain poised, upbeat and professional. There may be other opportunities in the company that would be a better fit.
  • Be enthusiastic about the job and the company. The people you meet during your job search and at your interviews can become valuable networking sources, even if you don't get the job.