FINANCE/ACCOUNTING CAREERS

Highlighting Your Communication Skills in the Job Interview

A recent Robert Half International survey shows job seekers make more mistakes during the interview than at any other stage of the hiring process. Whether it’s not knowing enough about the employer, appearing anxious or asking about compensation at an inappropriate time, this meeting is full of potential stumbling blocks.

Source: Robert Half International survey of 150 executives

It also can be a time to shine, however. The interview is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm for the job, and it allows accounting candidates to prove they possess an increasingly important trait - strong communication skills.

Accountants must be able to explain complex data and concepts to diverse audiences, including clients, senior management and colleagues from other departments. Many times, these contacts do not have financial backgrounds, making it imperative for the presenter to deliver the information in ways that everyone involved can comprehend.

With the growing emphasis placed on the ability to communicate effectively, how can candidates prove to hiring managers they have the requisite skills? Following are some ways to highlight strength in this area during a job interview:

• Be prepared. Research the company and position thoroughly so you are able to converse with ease and pose insightful inquires. Before the interview, rehearse your responses to common interview questions as well as your delivery.
• Mention past achievements and awards. When appropriate, discuss recognition you’ve received for public speaking or writing. Or, if you managed a highly accomplished project team, emphasize how your ability to effectively communicate key goals to group members led to the initiative’s success.
• Highlight speeches and editorial contributions. Are you involved with Toastmasters, or are you a regular presenter at industry events? Perhaps you contribute columns on topics of interest for your local chapter of an accounting organization. These are all compelling points to convey to hiring managers.
• Speak about the steps you're taking to improve. Employers want to see candidates who are committed to continually enhancing their skills. When the opportunity arises, make sure to mention any public speaking or writing courses you have taken.
• Ask insightful questions. At some point in the interview, typically toward the conclusion, the hiring manager may ask if you have any questions about the role or organization. Bring up subjects that demonstrate your expertise but also spark further conversation. For example: "I recently read that you are launching a new product. How will this help the company capture marketshare from Competitor Y?" This should prompt additional discussion and allow you to further highlight your speaking abilities.
  

To advance in your accounting career you need strong communication skills. Although you may not have a chance to deliver a 45-minute speech on current industry trends or write Pulitzer Prize-winning prose when applying for a new position, you can still impress hiring managers with your abilities and savvy. By understanding what you want to say during the interview and when to bring up key points, you can turn this discussion into an opportunity to not only highlight your qualifications but also demonstrate your communication prowess.

Founded in 1948, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, a division of Robert Half International Inc., is first and largest specialized financial recruiting service. The company has more than 360 offices worldwide. Search for jobs now or learn more at www.roberthalf.com.