You’ve probably encountered this scenario before—an applicant submits an impressive resume, but when they sit down for the interview, something feels off. Maybe they lack enthusiasm, their personality doesn’t fit your firm’s culture, or their skills don’t align with their written credentials. This is why effective interviewing for accounting candidates requires more than just reviewing resumes—it demands a deeper, more strategic evaluation of talent.
A well-crafted resume might tell part of the story, but it doesn’t reveal a candidate’s work ethic, adaptability, or ability to collaborate with your team. That’s why firms must adopt a more comprehensive approach to evaluating talent.
Looking Beyond the Resume
To attract top accounting talent, go beyond traditional hiring methods. Consider these strategies:
-
Use Social Media & Online Presence – A candidate’s LinkedIn activity, industry engagement, or even personal projects can provide valuable insight into their interests and professional growth.
-
Evaluate Soft Skills & Emotional Intelligence – Technical skills are essential, but strong communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities are just as crucial in a modern accounting firm.
-
Pay Attention to Nonverbal Cues – Body language, confidence, and how candidates handle unexpected questions can reveal their true personality and fit for your firm.
For more expert hiring strategies, check out Best Practices for Hiring Accountants: An Expert’s Take, which discusses creating compelling job descriptions and avoiding common hiring mistakes.
Making Smarter Hiring Decisions
Rather than relying solely on traditional interviews, consider a multi-step process that includes:
-
Short pre-screening calls to assess initial fit.
-
Behavioral interview questions that test problem-solving and adaptability.
-
Skills assessments to verify expertise.
If you want to refine how you evaluate resumes and interviews, Resume Writing Tips to Land Your Dream Accounting Job offers valuable insights into what makes a strong application stand out.
Act Fast—Top Talent Won’t Wait
The best accounting professionals are in high demand, and firms that take too long to make hiring decisions risk losing them to competitors. If you’re looking to improve your hiring speed while still making informed choices, How to Fully Staff Your Firm by January provides a step-by-step guide to securing top candidates before peak seasons.
For additional guidance on structuring fair and effective interviewing for accounting candidates, visit the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), which provides best practices for hiring while staying compliant with industry standards.
By integrating these strategies and resources, your firm will be better equipped to hire smarter, faster, and more effectively—ensuring you build a team that thrives long-term.
Last updated: April 2025
