Tips for Finance Job Interviews

Finance job interviews can make anyone nervous, especially if you really need the open position. But with a good mixture of confidence and preparation, you can ace any job interview you go to. Securing the position you want takes more than just skills on paper, you have to show through your words and actions that you are worth investing in. Those seeking finance jobs should understand how the job interview goes. It can go well if you make a good first impression.

The first thing you need to understand is that your interviewer asks questions to measure your suitability as a job applicant. Making a good first impression can catch the interest of the hiring manager. If you impress your hiring manager, you’ll get shortlisted and will advance to the next stage of your employment process.

Here are some of the things you should understand when going for the job interview.

 

The Way You Present Yourself in a Job Interview

It’s not enough to wear your best suit to the interview. The best presentation you can give shows in your demeanor and your calmness during the interview. Everyone who goes through the same thing will feel nervous, but what should set you apart from your peers is your ability to stay calm. You’ll feel less flustered if you arrive on time and you show your enthusiasm over the prospect of working in the company.

Also, you should answer when the interviewer asks pertinent questions. The way you answer and ask your own questions also tell of your people skills. Keep your composure even when the interviewer asks pointed questions. Don’t overreact when the interviewer tests you by asking trick questions. First impressions matter when it comes to job interviews, so make sure you stay on the safe side.

 

Get Ready to Answer Generic Interview Questions

The interview is just a small part of the lengthy hiring process. It’s very likely that your job interviewers will ask the same questions, so it’s best if you prepare to answer these types of questions.

In general, think of questions related with the job, your qualifications and why you think you are the perfect candidate for the job position you’re applying for. Do your research and pattern your answers according to the company and the finance position.

Employers that offer accountant jobs or private equity jobs may phrase their questions in a different way each time, but the subject matter of the general background questions will be roughly the same.

If it’s your first interview, you may not notice the difference. But after going through the process a few times, you’ll start seeing a trend. All the questions will be geared toward sizing up your suitability for the job. Make sure the material you have prepared in advance can be tweaked quickly so that you can think of an answer without taking too much time.

 

Questions on Work History and Goals

Some employers are eager to use the job interview to filter out those who aren’t suitable for the job. For sure, most candidates that get to the interview portion of the hiring process are qualified, but suitability is another matter. Work history will often tell of your professionalism, and your tendency to switch jobs.

There are some questions that seem unrelated, like your familiarity with computer troubleshooting. These are meant to check your reaction. Some candidates for finance jobs may be filtered out for not having the right attitude toward learning new work or technology skills.