After the director, an accountant is referred to as the second person. An accountant is a crucial character in any business: he is in charge of the finances, confirms the legitimacy of all monetary transactions, and optimizes expenses. This employee receives and distributes all profits. As a result, managers are picky about who they hire for this role and only hire individuals who meet all of the qualifications. But what exactly are they?
Which is more important: a fancy certificate or current knowledge? What should you search for in the applicant's past? And how should his qualifications be assessed over a brief trial period? These and other nuances are covered in this article!
7 Crucial Interview Questions
An unskilled accountant is responsible for more than just late and incorrect reporting. His punctures caused by inattention or ignorance will result in considerable losses and issues with regulatory authorities. And this carries the risk of severe punishment, up to and including criminal prosecution, as well as exorbitant fines. As a result, it is critical to approach the selection of such employees with caution - a few suggestions can help.
1. Education
Profile competency is, of course, a must for job. However, one crust is insufficient. Accounting is a field that is evolving at a breakneck pace. It is continually being updated: new laws are being enacted, and regulatory organizations' requirements are changing. You can't quit working as an accountant because the knowledge you obtain fast becomes obsolete.
As a result, key interview questions should focus on legislative updates and current regulatory changes. After receiving responses, you will be able to determine how relevant the candidate's expertise is and whether he stays up with industry advancements.
2. Subject of Study
Inquire with an accountant about their practical experience. It would be a huge benefit if the candidate had prior experience in the industry in which your company operates. As a result, the professional will soon become acquainted with the intricacies of doing business.
3. Taxes
An accountant must comprehend the tax rules in order to properly prepare documentation and avoid flaws that will result in penalties. This cannot be directed by articles from user forums; instead, you must be familiar with the original rules and regulations.
It is simple to test a prospective employee's knowledge: ask him an unclear topic from the tax sphere, such as the actual terms of the reporting period. It is a calendar year under federal law, but in practice, as well as in conformity with the tax legislation, which established months and quarters for reporting, accountants employ interim periods that must be reflected in the company's own regulatory documentation.
Rate how sensible and comprehensive the response was. At the same time, it is perfectly fair to give someone the option of looking up the solution on the Internet. The most important thing to understand in this scenario is what kind of sources he uses: official or word of mouth.
4. Digitalization
In this case, it is vital to analyse the applicant from both sides. On the one hand, computer and Internet literacy should be at its peak, and a person should be well-versed in field innovations:
· Configurations 1C,
· Cloud computing,
· Internet resources that are useful
· Apps and programs
· Synchronization of data
At the same time, familiarity with the fundamentals is still required:
· Accounting records,
· Duplicate entries,
· Wiring and other nuances
An accountant's ability to learn and drive to develop in the technical aspects of their profession are essential for any employee.
5. Confidentiality
Inquire about their past employment and what they liked and disliked about it. The degree of frankness and emotional colouring of remarks can reveal how correct the applicant is and whether he respects the concept of information confidentiality. Even if the separation from the previous workplace was acrimonious, an acceptable specialist will not go into specifics and will not give the entire tale of the organization.
6. Concentration
This characteristic is essential for accounting success. Keep one working life hack: it would be beneficial to give the candidate a short attentiveness test, even if it is the most basic one, such as finding the same letters or signs. It is preferable if the task is written, as the accountant will not have to deal with any images. Any Web exam with fewer than five points will suffice.
7. Salary
Don't cut corners when it comes to hiring an accountant. A multifunctional professional with considerable industrial experience and core understanding is more profitable for any organization. This one will not only be able to keep primary papers, but will also be able to efficiently handle the material component. You won't have to hire professional consultants for every unclear scenario with the tax office if you use it.
Of course, such an employee's services will not be inexpensive. Above all, make certain that attractive stories about expertise and experience are more than simply words.
The Bottom Line
In general, it is apparent from a dynamic chat what tasks the applicant has to handle and what his professional range is. Try to assess not only the experience listed on the résumé, but also the skills - this is part of the reason for the trial time. The abilities of the applicant should be vast and adaptable. Only by asking questions and observing will you be able to reach the correct conclusions.
Have you already identified your suitable accountant, managers? How did you select him, and what attributes proved to be the most beneficial to your company in the end? What are the most significant talents in your opinion? What personal life tactics do you employ to find a qualified specialist?
And here are a few questions for accountants: what do you emphasize in your resume? What are the most bizarre interview questions you've been asked? And what advice would you provide to peers who are looking for work?
So, we hope that this article will help you in the process of finding the perfect account. If you thing we missed some crucial aspects, please let us know in the comments below!
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