Newsletter Archive

Surviving the Search: the three keys to successful interviewing

By Daniel Williger, CPA
Partner
Good Swartz Brown & Berns LLP

In Real Estate the three most important things are "Location, Location, and Location". Apply this simple rule to interviewing, and you come up with its three most important things: "PREPARATION, PREPARATION, PREPARATION". And with such a large body of information available about most accounting firms, preparation can be fast, easy and efficient!

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of preparation, some questions must first be asked. There are many different questions, but most can be put into one of two main categories. "What should I know about the firm and people that I am interviewing with?" and "What do I want the firm to know about me?"

Let's start off with what you should know about the firm with which you are interviewing and why it is important. An accountant is hopefully making a long-term commitment and devoting a major part of every day life to their job. It is in everyone's best interest therefore to make sure they are happy with their job, comfortable in their work environment, and learning and growing in their position. A good place to begin is the website of the firm you plan to interview with. As an example, visit my firm's website: www.gsbbcpa.com. There is a ton of good information to be found.

General information such as the size of the firm, firm structure, services provided, specialties, and types of client is readily available on CPA firm websites. Ask yourself if the firm is a good match for you, based upon what you have learned from the website. Consider both technical issues, such as the type of work, clients and specialization, as well as personal issues such as work environment. Look for information regarding the Partners and Staff, and their personal areas of expertise, which is usually available. If you know in advance who you will be interviewing with, then knowing these things is not only helpful, but most probably viewed as complimentary by the interviewer.

Additional information on CPA firms can be found in industry publications like Practical Accountant and local business publications such as the Los Angeles Business Journal. An internet search can also provide great information on CPA firms, such as recent articles written by their partners, upcoming seminars sponsored by CPA firms, and other details. Firms will definitely highlight their own accomplishments on their websites as well. You cannot know too much about the firm and people that make up that firm.

Now on to question number two. What do I want the firm to know about me? Think of it this way. It is your job to "sell yourself" to the firm. What do you have to offer to the firm that makes you "the one"? Be prepared to discuss your education, any work experience, your short and long-term career goals, and most importantly why the firm needs you as part of their new staff. As I interview a candidate for a position at our firm I usually ask myself, "How would this person represent the firm when working at a client's facility," and "How would this person fit into our own work environment?" The answers to these questions are crucial in the hiring decision. With all else being equal, such as grades, experience, and other factors, the well prepared, self assured candidate is light years ahead of someone who is not prepared.

Interviewing should be viewed as an opportunity for you to strut your stuff, highlight your accomplishments, and show that you are "THE ONE". Preparation makes this an easier task. A prepared candidate is definitely more relaxed, comfortable and confident. Preparation makes the interview process much more useful - and even fun - for both the interviewer and candidate. And it could take you one step closer to hearing those wonderful words: You're Hired!

p.s. Guys, Do NOT wear white socks with a dark suit!!!!