Finance Interview Questions: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Types of Finance Interview Questions

Finance interviews generally combine three types of questions: technical accounting questions, competency-based behavioural questions, and commercial or business questions. Understanding the mix for the specific role you are applying for is the first step in preparing effectively.

Common Technical Questions

Expect questions on the three financial statements — particularly how they link (profit in the P&L flows to equity in the balance sheet; cash generated from operations reconciles P&L profit to cash). Walk me through a cash flow statement is a standard question at all levels. Other common technical questions cover deferred tax, revenue recognition under IFRS 15, consolidation principles, and ratio analysis. For more senior roles, expect questions on business combinations, impairment testing, and hedge accounting.

Competency Questions

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for all competency questions. Common themes include: managing competing deadlines, dealing with a difficult stakeholder, finding an error under pressure, and influencing a decision without direct authority. Prepare three or four strong examples that can flex across multiple question types.

Commercial Questions

At senior level, interviewers test commercial awareness. Questions such as 'What is driving our sector right now?' or 'How would you approach pricing this product?' assess whether you think beyond the numbers. Read the annual report and recent press coverage of the company before the interview.

Questions to Ask

Always prepare questions for the panel. Good options: What does success look like in this role in the first six months? How is the finance team structured? What are the biggest financial challenges facing the business this year? Avoid questions about salary, holidays, or benefits at first interview.

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