Tell me about a time when you had to review accounting information to identify and resolve inaccuracies or imbalances.
Accountant Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
In my previous role as an accountant at XYZ Company, I had to review accounting information on a regular basis to identify and resolve inaccuracies or imbalances. One specific instance was when I noticed a discrepancy in the general ledger during the monthly closing process. I immediately investigated the issue by comparing it with the subledger and bank statements. After thorough analysis, I discovered that an entry was mistakenly recorded twice, resulting in an imbalance. I promptly corrected the error by reversing the duplicate entry and adjusting the related accounts. To prevent similar issues in the future, I implemented a reconciliation checklist to ensure all transactions were accurately recorded. This experience showcased my attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to resolve accounting discrepancies.
A more solid answer
During my tenure as a Junior Accountant at ABC Corporation, I encountered a situation where I needed to review accounting information to identify and resolve inaccuracies. At the end of the second quarter, while preparing financial statements, I noticed that the accounts payable balance seemed unusually high. To investigate, I requested the supporting documentation for the invoices and compared it with the vendor statements. After meticulously reviewing each invoice, I discovered duplicate payments for a particular vendor. By reaching out to the vendor and cross-referencing the bank statements, I confirmed the errors. I promptly contacted the accounts payable team to resolve the issue and recover the excess payment. To prevent future occurrences, I suggested implementing a more robust vendor management system and conducting periodic audits of accounts payable transactions. This experience enhanced my data analysis abilities, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer provides specific details about the candidate's experience in reviewing accounting information and resolving inaccuracies. It demonstrates their strong mathematical and accounting skills, excellent data analysis abilities, and attention to detail. However, it could be further improved by highlighting their proficiency with accounting software and MS Excel, as mentioned in the job description.
An exceptional answer
As a Senior Accountant at DEF Financial Services, I regularly review accounting information to identify and resolve inaccuracies or imbalances. In one instance, while reconciling the bank statements, I noticed a discrepancy between the recorded deposits and the actual deposits made. To investigate, I collaborated with the treasury department and conducted a thorough analysis of the cash receipts and the corresponding bank statements. After meticulous examination, I uncovered a system glitch that was causing the deposits to be recorded in the wrong accounts. To rectify the issue, I worked closely with the IT team to troubleshoot and resolve the glitch within a week. Additionally, I implemented enhanced controls to validate and reconcile cash receipts regularly. This experience showcased my strong mathematical and accounting skills, exceptional data analysis abilities, and my proactive approach to problem-solving.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a more comprehensive example of the candidate's experience in reviewing accounting information. It demonstrates their proficiency with accounting software and MS Excel, as well as their strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload. The candidate also showcases their effective communication skills by collaborating with different departments to investigate and resolve the issue. The answer highlights the candidate's proactiveness in implementing enhanced controls to prevent future discrepancies. However, it could be further improved by mentioning their experience in preparing financial statements and their knowledge of accounting regulations and procedures, as mentioned in the job description.
How to prepare for this question
- Brush up on accounting regulations, procedures, and guidelines.
- Strengthen data analysis abilities and proficiency with accounting software and MS Excel.
- Practice reviewing and reconciling financial statements and accounts.
- Prepare examples of identifying and resolving accounting inaccuracies.
- Highlight experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams and implementing controls.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Strong mathematical and accounting skills
- Excellent data analysis abilities
- Strong attention to detail
- Good analytical skills
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