Q:

As a finance manager, do you have experience with relational database management

systems, such as Oracle?

A:
The ideal candidate will have experience using relational database management
systems. Is the applicant proficient in these systems or a beginner? When explaining his
or her experience, focus on what methods the candidate has used in the past and if
your company uses any of those systems today. These types of programs typically all
use the same program language, known as SQL, so having experience in one relational
database management system can be quite versatile. What to look for in an answer:

 Knowledge of SQL

 Ability to translate data from relational database management systems

 Confidence in oneself

Example:
“As a finance manager, I have six years of experience using Oracle. I have a working
knowledge of SQL. I recently began using Tibero and Microsoft SQL Server.”

Q:

Tell me about a time when you had to prepare a financial report with a very tight
deadline. What steps did you take?

A:
As a finance manager, it is common to have tight deadlines. The ideal candidate will
have experience creating reports within a short window of time. The applicant’s answer
to this question should help you gauge what a very tight deadline is to the candidate
compared to the company’s view of a tight deadline. The amount of time may vary
significantly among candidates. How did the applicant divide his or her time while
preparing the financial report? What to look for in an answer:
  Understands the importance of efficiency and accuracy

 Experience preparing financial documents with a tight deadline

 Time-management skills

Example:
“I was given four hours to prepare a financial report. I stopped working on all non-
essential tasks and brought in my assistant to sort through balance sheets while I
examined statements of cash flow.”

Q:

What are your methods for avoiding errors when recording and examining financial
documents?

A:
While there are automated processes as a finance manager, there is still a potential for
error when recording and examining financial documents for accuracy. An applicant’s
dedication for accuracy is critical as financial mistakes can quickly result in costly
blunders. A good candidate will always be thinking ahead and have a set routine for
double-checking his or her work. Does the applicant ask a coworker to double-check
reports before submitting them? What to look for in an answer:

 Attention to detail

 A solid routine for double-checking work

 Ability to correct errors before there is a problem

Example:
“In my last finance manager position, I put together a team of analysts to double-check
all financial documents. I would correct any errors on the documents before submitting
them to upper management.”

:
 As a finance manager, how do you motivate and reward your team?

A:
The ideal candidate will have interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate teammates.
When working with numbers, employees can often become disgruntled if they feel
unappreciated. The applicant’s answer should help you determine his or her motivation
techniques and reward systems. A finance manager should be able to identify what –-
programs. What to look for in an answer:

 Communication skills for staff and colleagues

 High level of initiative and creativity

 Knowledge of motivational techniques

Example:
“As a finance manager, I allocate budgets for monthly bonuses and Friday lunches.
Every Friday, I provide my team with excellent lunches in the office. The monthly
bonuses are for those who come to work daily.”

Q:

In your opinion, can a cash flow statement tell how well a company is doing?

A:
Finance managers know the ins and outs of a plethora of different financial documents.
The applicant should be aware that a cash flow statement reflects what a company is
doing with its money and where it is coming from; however, it does not take into account
liabilities and assets. Focus on what side of the question the applicant is defending.
Does the candidate recommend using another document for a company’s entire
financial condition? What to look for in an answer:

 A solid understanding of multiple financial documents

 Explains the pros and cons of different financial documents

 Critical thinking skills

Example:
 “I would use a balance sheet, which lists liabilities and assets, and a cash flow
statement to get a complete idea of a company’s financial state. Using multiple
documents helps fill in any missing gaps.”

Q:

Have you ever disagreed with a member of upper management about an investment
decision? What example can you provide and how did you handle the situation?

A:
Finance managers provide beneficial insights into a company's financial practices and
strive to maintain their employer's finances. This question allows interviewers to gauge
a candidate's ability to analyze potential investment opportunities and compare those
opportunities to current company revenue versus debts or accounts receivable. It also
highlights their ability to challenge authority in a respectful way to uphold a business's
financial health.

A candidate's answer should emphasize:

 Respect for upper management professionals

 Persuasive verbal communication skills

 Ability to recognize financial risks

Here is one example of a quality candidate answer:

Example:
"Yes, at my previous job, the CFO of our company wanted to find ways to maximize
business profits by investing in start-up companies. At this time, it was the end of
August and we were still waiting to receive payments from clients to pay off our current
liabilities. To help them understand my reasoning, I created a report that outlined how
existing client payments would barely match current liabilities. This was enough for the
CFO to consider holding off on our investment plan until after the start of the next year."