CPA Interview Questions & Answers Guide
CPA Interview Questions: Complete Guide to Land Your Dream Job (2026)
Author: Vicky Sarin, CA | 25 Years Post-Qualification Experience | INSEAD ILPSE Alumni
You've invested years passing the CPA exam, and now the real test begins—landing the job that matches your credentials.
CPA interviews differ from general accounting interviews. Employers expect technical depth, regulatory awareness, and professional judgment that goes beyond textbook knowledge. Whether you're interviewing for public accounting, corporate finance, or advisory roles, the questions you'll face probe both your technical competence and your ability to navigate complex professional scenarios.
After coaching hundreds of CPA candidates through interviews at Big 4 firms, mid-tier practices, and Fortune 500 companies, I've identified the patterns that consistently separate successful candidates from those who fall short.
This guide covers everything from foundational technical questions to advanced situational scenarios, with frameworks you can apply immediately in your next interview.
Understanding CPA Interview Structure
CPA interviews typically follow a structured format across multiple rounds:
Initial Screening:
- Resume walkthrough
- Motivation for the role
- Basic qualification verification
- Salary expectations
Technical Assessment:
- Accounting fundamentals
- GAAP application scenarios
- Industry-specific knowledge
- Software proficiency
Behavioral/Final Round:
- Cultural fit assessment
- Professional judgment scenarios
- Leadership and teamwork examples
- Partner or senior management interview
For experienced CPAs, expect deeper technical scrutiny and questions about specific engagement experience. Entry-level candidates face more foundational questions with emphasis on learning potential.
Technical Accounting Questions
Technical questions form the foundation of CPA interviews. Demonstrate both knowledge and practical application.
Q1: Walk me through the three financial statements and their interconnections.
The three core financial statements work together to present a complete financial picture:
Income Statement shows profitability over a period—revenues minus expenses equals net income. This flows directly to retained earnings on the balance sheet and serves as the starting point for operating cash flow.
Balance Sheet captures assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point. The accounting equation (Assets = Liabilities + Equity) must always balance. Changes in working capital accounts directly impact the cash flow statement.
Cash Flow Statement reconciles net income to actual cash movement through operating, investing, and financing activities. Ending cash ties back to the balance sheet.
Key insight: Understanding these linkages is fundamental. If depreciation increases by $100, net income decreases by $70 (assuming 30% tax), but operating cash flow increases by $30 due to the tax shield effect.
For deeper understanding of financial statement analysis, explore key financial ratios that drive business decisions.
Q2: Explain the difference between cash basis and accrual basis accounting.
Cash Basis: Recognizes revenue when cash is received and expenses when cash is paid. Simpler but doesn't match economic activity with the period it occurs.
Accrual Basis: Recognizes revenue when earned (regardless of cash receipt) and expenses when incurred (regardless of payment). Required under GAAP for most businesses.
Why it matters: Accrual accounting provides a more accurate picture of financial performance but creates differences between net income and cash flow—a concept you must explain clearly.
Q3: What is the revenue recognition principle under ASC 606?
ASC 606 establishes a five-step model for revenue recognition:
- Identify the contract with the customer
- Identify performance obligations in the contract
- Determine the transaction price
- Allocate the transaction price to performance obligations
- Recognize revenue when (or as) performance obligations are satisfied
Practical application: Revenue is recognized when control transfers to the customer—either at a point in time or over time, depending on the nature of the performance obligation.
Q4: How do you account for bad debt expense?
Two primary methods exist:
Direct Write-Off Method: Expense recorded when specific accounts become uncollectible. Simple but doesn't match expenses with related revenues. Not GAAP-compliant for material amounts.
Allowance Method: Estimates uncollectible accounts at period-end, creating a contra-asset (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts). Matches expense with revenue period. Required under GAAP.
Estimation approaches:
- Percentage of sales method
- Aging of receivables method
- Specific identification
Q5: Explain the difference between capitalizing and expensing costs.
Capitalize: Record as an asset when expenditure provides future economic benefits extending beyond the current period. Depreciate or amortize over useful life.
Expense: Record immediately in the income statement when benefit is consumed in the current period.
Judgment required: Determining whether costs should be capitalized involves assessing probable future benefits, measurability, and materiality—key areas where CPAs add value.
GAAP and Standards Questions
CPAs must demonstrate fluency with accounting standards and their practical application.
Q6: What are the key differences between US GAAP and IFRS?
Fundamental differences:
| Area | US GAAP | IFRS |
|---|---|---|
| Framework | Rules-based | Principles-based |
| Inventory | LIFO permitted | LIFO prohibited |
| Development Costs | Generally expensed | Capitalized if criteria met |
| Revaluation | Not permitted for most assets | Permitted for PPE and intangibles |
| Lease Classification | Finance vs. Operating | Similar but different thresholds |
Understanding these differences becomes crucial for multinational engagements. Consider pursuing IFRS certification to strengthen your global reporting capabilities.
Q7: How do you determine fair value under ASC 820?
ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy:
Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets/liabilities (most reliable)
Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices—quoted prices for similar items, interest rates, yield curves
Level 3: Unobservable inputs based on entity's own assumptions (least reliable, requires most disclosure)
Fair value definition: The price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.
For comprehensive understanding of valuation concepts, review fair value measurement principles.
Q8: Explain lease accounting under ASC 842.
ASC 842 requires lessees to recognize most leases on the balance sheet:
Finance Lease (formerly Capital Lease):
- Transfers ownership or contains purchase option likely to be exercised
- Recognize right-of-use asset and lease liability
- Front-loaded expense pattern (interest + depreciation)
Operating Lease:
- Does not meet finance lease criteria
- Still recognize right-of-use asset and lease liability
- Straight-line expense recognition
Key change from ASC 840: Operating leases now appear on balance sheet, significantly impacting leverage ratios and financial covenants.
Q9: What is the going concern assumption and when is it relevant?
Going concern assumes an entity will continue operations for the foreseeable future (generally 12 months from financial statement date).
Auditor responsibilities:
- Evaluate management's assessment
- Consider conditions raising substantial doubt
- Evaluate adequacy of disclosures
- Issue appropriate audit opinion modification if warranted
Indicators of concern: Recurring losses, negative cash flows, loan defaults, legal proceedings, loss of key customers.
Audit and Assurance Questions
For CPAs in public accounting, audit-specific questions are essential.
Q10: Walk me through the audit process.
Phase 1: Planning and Risk Assessment
- Understand the entity and its environment
- Assess risks of material misstatement
- Determine materiality levels
- Design audit procedures
Phase 2: Internal Control Evaluation
- Document and test controls
- Assess control risk
- Identify control deficiencies
Phase 3: Substantive Testing
- Tests of details
- Analytical procedures
- Gather sufficient appropriate evidence
Phase 4: Completion and Reporting
- Evaluate findings
- Form audit opinion
- Issue audit report
- Communicate with governance
Q11: What is materiality and how do you determine it?
Materiality: Information is material if its omission or misstatement could influence economic decisions of users.
Determination factors:
- Size of the entity (revenue, assets, equity)
- Nature of the entity and industry
- Users of financial statements
- Prior period materiality levels
Planning materiality sets the threshold for the audit. Performance materiality (typically 50-75% of planning materiality) allows for aggregation of misstatements.
Tolerable misstatement applies to individual account balances during testing.
Q12: Explain the difference between inherent risk, control risk, and detection risk.
Inherent Risk: Susceptibility of an assertion to material misstatement, assuming no related controls. Higher for complex transactions, estimates, and related party dealings.
Control Risk: Risk that a material misstatement won't be prevented or detected by internal controls. Assessed through control testing.
Detection Risk: Risk that audit procedures won't detect a material misstatement. The only component auditors directly control through nature, timing, and extent of procedures.
Audit Risk Model: Audit Risk = Inherent Risk × Control Risk × Detection Risk
Q13: What are the different types of audit opinions?
Unmodified (Clean) Opinion: Financial statements present fairly in all material respects.
Qualified Opinion: Except for specific identified matters, financial statements present fairly. Used for material but not pervasive misstatements.
Adverse Opinion: Financial statements do not present fairly. Used for material and pervasive misstatements.
Disclaimer of Opinion: Auditor unable to obtain sufficient appropriate evidence. Used when scope limitations are material and pervasive.
For CPAs maintaining their license, understanding ethics requirements is essential for audit quality.
Tax-Related Questions
Tax knowledge remains crucial for CPAs across all practice areas.
Q14: Explain the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion.
Tax Avoidance: Legal minimization of tax liability through legitimate planning strategies—timing of income/deductions, choice of entity structure, utilization of credits and deductions.
Tax Evasion: Illegal concealment of income or fraudulent claiming of deductions. Criminal offense with severe penalties.
CPA responsibility: Help clients minimize taxes legally while maintaining ethical boundaries. Never participate in or advise on tax evasion schemes.
Q15: What is the difference between permanent and temporary differences?
Permanent Differences: Items that affect book or tax income but never both. Never reverse. Examples: municipal bond interest, 50% meals limitation, fines and penalties.
Temporary Differences: Items that affect both book and tax income but in different periods. Create deferred tax assets or liabilities. Examples: depreciation timing differences, bad debt allowances, prepaid expenses.
Deferred Tax Asset: Future tax benefit from temporary differences (book expense recognized before tax deduction)
Deferred Tax Liability: Future tax obligation from temporary differences (tax deduction recognized before book expense)
Q16: How do you approach tax provision preparation?
Current tax expense: Tax payable for the current period based on taxable income.
Deferred tax expense: Change in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the period.
Total tax expense: Current + Deferred components
Key steps:
- Calculate current taxable income
- Identify temporary and permanent differences
- Calculate deferred tax assets/liabilities at enacted rates
- Assess need for valuation allowance on DTAs
- Reconcile effective tax rate to statutory rate
Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral questions assess your soft skills and professional judgment.
Q17: Tell me about a time you identified an error in financial data. How did you handle it?
STAR Framework:
Situation: Describe the context—what engagement, what type of data, what was the error?
Task: What was your responsibility? What needed to be corrected?
Action: How did you investigate, verify, and resolve the issue? Who did you communicate with?
Result: What was the outcome? What controls were implemented to prevent recurrence?
Key elements to demonstrate:
- Attention to detail that caught the error
- Professional skepticism
- Appropriate communication chain
- Focus on resolution, not blame
Q18: Describe a time you had to explain complex accounting to a non-financial audience.
This question tests your communication skills—essential for client service.
Strong response elements:
- Understanding your audience's knowledge level
- Using analogies and plain language
- Focusing on implications rather than technical mechanics
- Confirming understanding through questions
- Providing written summaries when appropriate
Example framework: "When explaining revenue recognition changes to the sales team, I used their commission structure as an analogy—just as their commissions are earned when deals close, not when customers eventually pay, the company recognizes revenue when we deliver value to customers."
Q19: How do you handle tight deadlines with multiple competing priorities?
CPAs frequently face deadline pressure, especially during busy seasons.
Effective response demonstrates:
- Systematic prioritization approach
- Proactive communication with stakeholders
- Time management techniques
- Willingness to escalate when necessary
- Quality maintenance under pressure
Framework: "I assess urgency and importance, communicate realistic timelines, and focus on high-impact items first. During our last busy season, I managed six simultaneous engagements by creating a shared tracker, holding brief daily stand-ups, and escalating resource constraints early."
Q20: Tell me about a time you disagreed with a colleague or supervisor.
This tests your professional diplomacy and intellectual integrity.
Key elements:
- Respectful disagreement based on facts
- Willingness to voice concerns through appropriate channels
- Openness to being wrong
- Maintaining relationships regardless of outcome
- Focus on the right answer, not being right
Situational Questions
Situational questions present hypothetical scenarios to assess your judgment.
Q21: You discover a material error after the audit report has been issued. What do you do?
Correct approach:
- Verify the error: Confirm it's actually material and affects the previously issued statements
- Assess impact: Determine whether the financial statements need restatement
- Consult standards: Review AU-C 560 (Subsequent Events) requirements
- Communicate immediately: Inform engagement partner and client management
- Determine appropriate action: Restatement, disclosure, or other corrective measures
- Document thoroughly: Record the error, investigation, and resolution
Professional responsibility: Transparency and prompt action protect both the public interest and the firm's reputation.
Q22: A client asks you to record an adjustment that you believe is inappropriate. How do you respond?
Framework:
- Understand the request: What's the client's reasoning? Is there a legitimate interpretation?
- Research the issue: Consult authoritative guidance on the specific transaction
- Present your analysis: Explain why you believe the treatment is inappropriate
- Propose alternatives: Offer acceptable approaches that address client's underlying concern
- Escalate if necessary: Involve engagement leadership if disagreement persists
- Document everything: Maintain clear record of discussions and conclusions
Bottom line: Never compromise professional standards. Your CPA license and reputation are more valuable than any single engagement.
Q23: You suspect a colleague has committed fraud. What steps do you take?
Response framework:
- Gather facts objectively: Don't accuse based on suspicion alone
- Consult firm policies: Follow established reporting channels
- Report to appropriate authority: Typically your supervisor, ethics hotline, or partner
- Maintain confidentiality: Don't discuss with others not involved in investigation
- Document observations: Record specific facts, dates, and circumstances
- Cooperate with investigation: Provide information requested by investigators
Key principle: CPAs have ethical obligations to report suspected fraud. Protecting the profession's integrity sometimes requires difficult conversations.
Q24: A client pressures you to complete an engagement faster than you believe is appropriate. How do you respond?
Balanced approach:
- Understand the urgency: What's driving the timeline? Is it negotiable?
- Assess implications: What quality risks exist with accelerated timeline?
- Communicate clearly: Explain specific concerns and potential consequences
- Propose solutions: Additional resources, phased delivery, scope adjustments
- Escalate if needed: Involve engagement leadership in timeline negotiations
- Document agreements: Confirm revised expectations in writing
Never compromise: Quality and professional standards aren't negotiable. Better to lose an engagement than issue substandard work.
Questions to Ask Interviewers
Thoughtful questions demonstrate engagement and help you evaluate the opportunity.
About the Role:
- What does a typical day or week look like in this position?
- What are the biggest challenges someone in this role would face?
- How is success measured in the first 90 days?
About Development:
- What professional development opportunities does the firm provide?
- How does the firm support CPE requirements and additional certifications?
- What's the typical career progression for someone in this role?
About Culture:
- How would you describe the team's working style?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- How does the firm approach work-life balance during busy season?
About the Business:
- What industries or client types does this team primarily serve?
- How has the practice evolved over the past few years?
- What technology investments is the firm making?
Preparation Strategy
Technical Preparation
Core knowledge refresh:
- Review financial statement preparation and analysis
- Study current GAAP standards (ASC 606, ASC 842, ASC 326)
- Understand audit methodology and risk assessment
- Refresh tax provision concepts
Software proficiency:
- Excel advanced functions (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, macros)
- Common accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle)
- Audit tools and data analytics platforms
Industry knowledge:
- Research the firm's primary industries
- Understand industry-specific accounting issues
- Review recent regulatory developments
Behavioral Preparation
Prepare STAR stories for:
- Handling errors or discrepancies
- Working under pressure
- Managing difficult clients or colleagues
- Demonstrating leadership
- Solving complex problems
- Learning from mistakes
Practice articulating:
- Your career narrative and transitions
- Why you chose this firm specifically
- Your long-term professional goals
Company Research
Know before you interview:
- Firm's service lines and specializations
- Recent news and announcements
- Key clients and industries served
- Culture and values statements
- Leadership team backgrounds
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Technical Errors
1. Surface-level knowledge
Interviewers probe beyond definitions. Understand why standards exist and how they apply in practice.
2. Outdated information
Accounting standards evolve. Ensure your knowledge reflects current GAAP, not what you learned years ago.
3. Inability to explain simply
If you can't explain a concept to a non-accountant, you may not truly understand it yourself.
4. Ignoring professional judgment
Many questions don't have single correct answers. Demonstrate your reasoning process, not just conclusions.
Behavioral Errors
5. Generic "Why CPA" answers
Connect your motivation to specific aspects of the profession that genuinely appeal to you.
6. Badmouthing previous employers
Even if your departure was difficult, maintain professionalism when discussing past experiences.
7. No questions prepared
Having no questions suggests disinterest. Always prepare thoughtful questions demonstrating engagement.
8. Overconfidence without substance
Confidence matters, but it must be backed by genuine competence and humility about what you're still learning.
Advanced Technical Questions
For senior roles and specialized positions, expect deeper technical probes:
Q25: How do you approach impairment testing under ASC 350 and ASC 360?
ASC 350 (Intangibles—Goodwill and Other):
- Goodwill tested at reporting unit level
- Option for qualitative assessment first
- If quantitative test needed, compare fair value to carrying amount
- Impairment = excess of carrying amount over fair value
ASC 360 (Property, Plant, and Equipment):
- Test when events indicate carrying amount may not be recoverable
- Compare undiscounted cash flows to carrying amount
- If impaired, write down to fair value
- Impairment loss recognized in income
Q26: Explain the expected credit loss model under ASC 326 (CECL).
Current Expected Credit Losses (CECL):
- Forward-looking model replacing incurred loss approach
- Recognize lifetime expected credit losses at origination
- Consider historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable forecasts
- Applies to financial assets measured at amortized cost
Key change: Losses recognized earlier, resulting in higher allowances upon adoption.
Q27: How do you account for business combinations under ASC 805?
Acquisition method requirements:
- Identify the acquirer
- Determine the acquisition date
- Recognize and measure identifiable assets and liabilities at fair value
- Recognize and measure goodwill or bargain purchase gain
Goodwill calculation:
Goodwill = Consideration transferred + NCI + Previously held equity interest − Fair value of net identifiable assets
For professionals working with complex transactions, AICPA certification programs provide specialized knowledge in areas like forensic accounting and data analytics.
Q28: What are the key considerations for variable interest entity (VIE) consolidation?
Consolidation required when:
- Entity is a VIE (insufficient equity at risk, or equity holders lack certain characteristics)
- Reporting entity is the primary beneficiary
Primary beneficiary determination:
- Power to direct activities most significantly affecting VIE's economic performance
- Obligation to absorb losses or right to receive benefits that could be significant
Practical complexity: VIE analysis requires significant judgment and is frequently tested in interviews for senior positions.
Industry-Specific Questions
For Public Accounting Candidates:
Q29: How do you approach client relationship management while maintaining independence?
Balance required:
- Build rapport and trust with client personnel
- Maintain professional skepticism
- Recognize and address independence threats
- Document safeguards applied
- Consult when situations are unclear
Independence threats: Self-interest, self-review, advocacy, familiarity, intimidation. Understanding these categories helps identify and mitigate risks.
Q30: Describe your experience with audit sampling.
Key concepts to address:
- Statistical vs. non-statistical sampling
- Sample size determination factors
- Selection methods (random, systematic, haphazard)
- Evaluation of results and projection of errors
- Documentation requirements
For Corporate Accounting Candidates:
Q31: How do you approach month-end close process improvement?
Framework:
- Map current process and identify bottlenecks
- Implement standardized templates and checklists
- Automate recurring entries where possible
- Establish clear ownership and deadlines
- Create reconciliation standards
- Build in review checkpoints
Demonstrate: Process improvement mindset and practical experience streamlining financial operations.
Q32: How do you ensure SOX compliance in your work?
Key elements:
- Understanding of control frameworks (COSO)
- Documentation of key controls
- Testing methodology and evidence retention
- Deficiency evaluation and remediation
- Communication with external auditors
Frequently Asked Questions
What technical topics should I prioritize for CPA interviews?
Focus first on financial statement fundamentals and their interconnections—this underlies everything else. Then master current revenue recognition (ASC 606), lease accounting (ASC 842), and fair value concepts (ASC 820). For audit roles, emphasize risk assessment and materiality. For tax roles, prioritize provision calculations and temporary/permanent differences.
How important is industry experience for CPA interviews?
Industry experience strengthens candidacy but isn't always required. Demonstrate transferable skills and genuine interest in learning the new industry. Research industry-specific accounting issues before interviewing to show preparation and adaptability.
Should I pursue additional certifications beyond CPA?
Additional certifications demonstrate commitment to professional development. Consider AICPA specialized certificates in areas like forensic accounting, data analytics, or international standards depending on your career focus. These credentials differentiate you from other CPAs.
How do I discuss salary expectations in CPA interviews?
Research market rates for your experience level and location. Provide a range rather than single number: "Based on my research and experience level, I'm expecting a range of X to Y." Be prepared to discuss total compensation including benefits, bonuses, and professional development support.
What's the best way to explain gaps in employment or career changes?
Be honest and focus on what you learned or accomplished during the gap. Frame career changes positively—emphasize skills gained and how they apply to the new role. Avoid negativity about previous employers or circumstances.
How do I prepare for case study questions in CPA interviews?
Practice thinking aloud through accounting scenarios. Structure your approach: identify the issue, consider relevant standards, analyze facts, reach a conclusion, and acknowledge uncertainties. Interviewers want to see your reasoning process, not just answers.
Interview Day Checklist
Before the Interview:
- Research the firm's services, clients, and recent news
- Review your resume for discussion points
- Prepare 5-6 STAR stories covering key competencies
- Refresh technical knowledge (GAAP updates, industry issues)
- Prepare thoughtful questions for interviewers
- Confirm interview logistics (time, location, format, participants)
Technical Review:
- Three financial statements and linkages
- Revenue recognition under ASC 606
- Lease accounting under ASC 842
- Fair value hierarchy under ASC 820
- Audit risk model and materiality concepts
- Tax provision components
Day-Of Preparation:
- Professional attire ready
- Copies of resume and certifications
- Notepad and pen for notes
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Test video setup if virtual interview
Conclusion
CPA interviews reward candidates who combine technical precision with professional judgment and strong communication skills. The questions in this guide represent what actually gets asked—master these concepts and you'll handle most interview scenarios confidently.
Remember: your CPA credential opens doors, but interviews determine which opportunities you actually capture. Technical competence is the entry ticket, but demonstrating how you think through complex situations and interact professionally often determines final decisions.
Approach preparation systematically. Build genuine understanding rather than memorizing scripts. Stay current on standards and industry developments. And recognize that landing the right CPA role positions you for long-term career success.
For those looking to strengthen their credentials further, exploring AICPA certification programs can provide specialized expertise that differentiates you in competitive markets. Programs in data analytics, forensic accounting, and US GAAP fundamentals complement your CPA and demonstrate commitment to continued professional development.
Related Resources:
Popular posts
Popular posts
Interview Questions? Answers.
Interview questions and model answers
- Accounting Interview questions and answers
- Accounts receivable interview questions
- Accounts payable interview questions
- ESG Interview questions
- Forensic accountant interview questions
- Financial controller interview questions
- GST interview questions
- IFRS interview questions and answers
- IFRS 15 interview questions and answers
- IFRS 17 Interview Questions and answers
- IFRS 9 Interview Questions and Answers
- IFRS 16 Interview Questions and answers
- Managerial round interview questions and answers
- Blockchain interview questions for finance professionals
What should I wear to an interview?
It's important to dress professionally for an interview. This usually means wearing a suit or dress pants and a button-down shirt for men, and a suit or a dress for women. Avoid wearing too much perfume or cologne, and make sure your clothes are clean and well-maintained.
How early should I arrive for the interview?
It's best to arrive at least 15 minutes early for the interview. This allows you time to gather your thoughts and compose yourself before the interview begins. Arriving too early can also be disruptive, so it's best to arrive at the designated time or a few minutes early.
"What should I bring to an interview?"
It's a good idea to bring a few key items to an interview to help you prepare and make a good impression. These might include:
- A copy of your resume and any other relevant documents, such as references or writing samples.
- A portfolio or sample of your work, if applicable.
- A list of questions to ask the interviewer.
- A notebook and pen to take notes.
- Directions to the interview location and contact information for the interviewer, in case you get lost or there is a delay.
Is it okay to bring a friend or family member to the interview?
t's generally not appropriate to bring a friend or family member to an interview, unless they have been specifically invited or are necessary for accommodation purposes.
What should I do if I'm running late for an interview?"
If you are running late for an interview, it's important to let the interviewer know as soon as possible. You can try calling or emailing to let them know that you are running behind and to give an estimated arrival time.
If possible, try to give them a good reason for the delay, such as unexpected traffic or a last-minute change in your schedule. It's also a good idea to apologize for the inconvenience and to thank them for their understanding.
How should I address the interviewer?
- It's generally a good idea to address the interviewer by their professional title and last name, unless they specify otherwise. For example, you could say "Mr./Ms. Smith" or "Dr. Jones."
Is it okay to ask about the company's culture or benefits during the interview?
Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to ask about the company's culture and benefits during the interview. In fact, it's often a good idea to ask about these things to get a better sense of whether the company is a good fit for you. Just make sure to keep the focus on the interview and not get too far off track.
"What should I do if I don't know the answer to a question?"
It's okay to admit that you don't know the answer to a question. You can try to respond by saying something like: "I'm not sure about that specific answer, but I am familiar with the general topic and would be happy to do some research and get back to you with more information."
Alternatively, you can try to answer the question by using your own experiences or knowledge to provide context or a related example.
"Is it okay to ask about salary and benefits in an interview?"
It's generally best to wait until you have received a job offer before discussing salary and benefits.
If the interviewer brings up the topic, you can respond by saying something like: "I'm open to discussing salary and benefits once we have established that we are a good fit for each other. Can you tell me more about the overall compensation package for this position?"
"What should I do if I'm asked a illegal question?"
It's important to remember that employers are not allowed to ask questions that discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. If you are asked an illegal question, you can try to redirect the conversation back to your qualifications and skills for the job.
For example, you might say something like: "I'm not comfortable answering that question, but I am excited to talk more about my skills and experiences that make me a strong fit for this position."
"What should I do if I'm asked a question that I don't understand?"
It's okay to admit that you don't understand a question and to ask for clarification. You can try saying something like: "I'm sorry, I'm not sure I fully understand the question. Could you please clarify or provide some more context?"
How should I end the interview?
At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for their time and express your interest in the position. You can also ask about the next steps in the hiring process and when you can expect to hear back. Finally, shake the interviewer's hand and make sure to follow up with a thank-you note or email after the interview.
Popular interview questions
- Mutual fund interview questions
- Best buy interview questions
- Aged care interview questions
- Interview outfits for women
- Business analyst interview questions
- Thank you email after interview
- questions to ask at end of interview
- Concentric advisors interview questions
- CA articleship interview questions
- Exit interview questions
- AML KYC interview questions
- Accounts payable interview questions
- Accounts receivable
- GST questions
- ESG questions
- IFRS interview
- Financial controller
- Mern stack
- Tally interview
- Terraform interview
- questions asked at interview for teaching assistant
Leave a comment