Question 3: In your words, describe what you actually do?
Answer 3: I analyze financial statements, assist with planning and budgeting, ensure
compliance with accounting standards, and advise management on financial
performance.
Question 4: How long have you been doing this role for?
Answer 4: I have been in this role for 14 years.
Question 5: How did you get to this point in your career?
Answer 5: I studied accounting in university and started as a junior accountant after
graduation. I worked my way up through different companies over the years.
Question 6: When it comes to remuneration, what are your three B’s? (Base, Bonus,
Benefits?)
Answer 6: My base salary, annual performance bonus, and health insurance benefits.
Question 7: I’m not going to ask you who you work for, but, what industry is your
company in?)
Answer 7: I work in the manufacturing inustry.
Question 8: When it comes to work flexibility, is your work primarily office-based, fully
remote, or a mix of both? Which do you prefer? Does your company allow you to be
flexible?
Answer 8: My work is a mix of office and remote. I prefer the flexibility to work remotely
sometimes. My company does allow a hybrid schedule.
Question 9: What does an average week or a typical day look like for you? Can you walk
me through your day? What time do you arrive and start at work, what are your main
tasks/responsibilities, who do you interact with, what meetings do you attend, etc.?
Answer 9: I arrive at 8am and start by reviewing cash flow statements and financial
reports. I have meetings with various departments to discuss their financials. I work on
monthly closings, audit prep, and analysis of revenue and expenses. I interact with
executives, managers, and team members.
Question 10: What does a typical day look like when things are going well vs a more
challenging/stressful day?
Answer 10: A good day is when my analysis identifies areas for cost savings. A stressful
day is when there are discrepancies in the numbers I can't resolve quickly.
Question 11: What skills or knowledge are most important for your day-to-day work?
Answer 11: Attention to detail, critical thinking, communication, and adaptability are
crucial. I need expertise in accounting standards and financial modeling.
Question 12: What are some examples of recent accomplishments or contributions
you've made in this role?
Answer 12: I spearheaded the transition to a new accounting system last year which
improved efficiency.
Question 13: Do you have a supportive manager and do you feel valued?
Answer 13: I have a very supportive manager who trusts me. I feel valued for my
expertise.
Question 14: How much time do you spend collaborating with colleagues vs working
independently?
Answer 14: It's a mix - maybe 60% independent work and 40% collaboration.
Question 15: Is there anything you wish you would have known before starting this role?
Answer 15: I wish I had known how much non-accounting knowledge like
communication skills and strategic thinking would be needed.
Question 16: What do you hate most about your role?
Answer 16: The most tedious parts like data entry and paperwork.
Question 17: What do you love most about your role?
Answer 17: I love investigating discrepancies in the numbers and finding solutions. I
enjoy advising management on how to improve financials.
Question 18: What’s the next role for you and when do you hope to achieve this?
Answer 18: In the next few years I hope to be promoted to Finance Controller.
Question 19: Is your next role going to be with the same company or a different one?
Answer 19: I plan to advance within my current company which values promoting from
within.
Question 20: What’s one piece of advice you could give to someone who aspires to
reach your position?
Answer 20: Build a strong technical accounting foundation but also soft skills like
communication and critical thinking. Stay adaptable and open to learning new systems
and regulations.
Question 21: It’s Day 1 for someone in your role. What one piece of advice would you give them to
succeed?
Answer 21: On your first day, it can feel overwhelming but don't worry - you were hired for a reason. My one
piece of advice is to actively listen and ask lots of questions early on. Get to know your team
and understand what they do.
Shadow experienced team members to learn processes. Clarify anything you are unsure about.
Don't make assumptions. It's better to ask a "silly" question now than make a mistake later on.
Really invest time upfront to learn the systems and workflows. That solid foundation will pay off
tremendously as you ramp up. Also, don't be afraid to speak up if you see an opportunity to
improve something - fresh perspectives are valuable!
Just remember to be collaborative. You've got this!
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