I’ve got a job interview! Not just any job interview, but one with an accountancy firm. Where do I start? How should I approach it? These are just some of the questions candidates ask themselves. …

Many people would like to join an accounting firm. Management-related professions offer a fast-track route to the day-to-day development of certain essential qualities: organization, rigor, ability to synthesize, autonomy and skills development. Clearly, the candidate won’t be able to demonstrate all these qualities in an interview, but he or she should still bear in mind that this face-to-face meeting is an opportunity to put the odds in his or her favor. It goes without saying that it needs to be prepared.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

ACCOUNTING FIRM INFORMATION

But you’re not going to wait until the big day to find out about the accounting firm? That’s a mistake you really shouldn’t make! The candidate must have at least a basic knowledge of the company in question. With the Internet, information is at your fingertips. You need to be curious and motivated to stand out from your competitors.

Take a look at the company’s website, if available. You will find the following information :

• https://kof-experts.sn/mission-traditionnelles/ objectives and missions
• Our services
• Work organization
• Profile required
• Working tools
• Target customers
• Etc.

The list is exhaustive, but the important thing is at least to be able to give precise answers to these questions.

WHAT ABOUT THE POSITION IN THE ACCOUNTING FIRM?

If you’re interested in a career in accounting, consulting or auditing, you need to be able to explain your reasons for applying. Of course, this doesn’t mean giving a speech, but rather stating your motivations and objectives clearly and precisely.

Before the interview, remember to practice and list all the reasons why you decided to get involved. It’s no sport, but get ready!

You’ll be able to address points such as your ability to handle figures, the cross-disciplinary nature of the job, your interpersonal skills, etc. Make sure your sales pitch is well defined.

DRESS CODE

How should I present myself on the day of the interview? As much as you care about the job, you’ll also care about what you’re wearing – it’s a question that will always come up! What you need to know is that each structure has its own dress code. Reassuring, isn’t it? But that doesn’t mean it’s a foregone conclusion! After all, you have to be logical, you have to make a good impression.

For the ladies: Avoid sneakers, jeans and low-cut necklines, as these are often considered casual or extravagant. Choose tailored ensembles.

For gentlemen: opt for a suit and tie. Avoid ostentatious colors and favor neutral, professional colors such as white, blue, etc.

SKILLS AND QUALITIES IN AN ACCOUNTING FIRM

The accountant must have a minimum of skills:

• Proficiency in office software (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Proficiency in at least one accounting software package (SAGE, ODOO, QUADRATUS etc.)
• Know how to enter accounting data in the books
• Monitor the processing of customer and supplier invoices
• Preparing tax and social security returns

At the same time, the accountant needs to have a number of qualities that match his or her position. Accountants need to be highly organized and rigorous, versatile, able to synthesize and analyze data, and above all have a good sense of customer relations.

INTERVIEW TIPS

Above all, avoid arriving late for a job interview. If something unexpected happens, let the company know.

Wear clean clothes, look after your appearance and trim your nails.

Always carry your CV with you in physical format, and make sure you have a good grasp of your background and the tasks you’ve been given, for a solid sales pitch.

Keep up to date with the latest accounting, financial and tax news…

Asking questions in a job interview shows that you’re interested in the position. So don’t hesitate to jot down a few questions to ask your interviewer.

Never speak ill of your former employer or colleagues, even if they are the cause of your departure.

At the end of the interview, always thank your interviewer(s) for their interest in your application.

We hope our advice will bring you luck on the day of your interview, so don’t give up!

On your marks…get set ….gagnez !!!!