Payroll Jobs Interview Questions:

What to Ask When It’s Your Turn

Hiring managers shouldn’t be the only ones asking payroll job interview questions. A recent
Accountemps survey shows 84 percent of candidates ask interview questions. You should, too.
Here’s why and how:

A candidate who doesn’t ask questions comes off as either overwhelmed or uninterested in the
job. But it’s not a one-way street. Applicants also need to make sure the work environment and
responsibilities are right for them. And that requires making pertinent inquiries that will help you
decide whether you can see yourself with the organization in the future.

Good payroll jobs interview questions to ask

The first interview is where you sell yourself and make a good impression. An excellent way to
do that is to ask questions so you get the insights you need, which will also show your know-how
and interest in the position. Here are some payroll jobs interview questions you can ask:

 What is a day in this position like?

 Is this a new role? If not, why did the previous employee leave?
 How do you help payroll employees keep up with regulatory changes and compliance?
Do you offer continuing education and training?
 What are the top three skills you’re looking for in this payroll position?
 Are there opportunities for in-house advancements?
 What are your favorite aspects of working here?
 What are the next steps? What is your timeline for hiring?

Bad payroll jobs interview questions

The first interview is not the best time to negotiate salary or inquire about benefits details. There
will be time for that if you make it past the first round. Here are some other payroll jobs
interview questions not to ask:

 How many sick days can I take?

 Do I have to use your payroll software, or would you be willing to switch to the platform
I’m used to?
 What is the worst part about this job?
 Can I negotiate the job responsibilities?
 Are you flexible on the start time?
 When’s the earliest I can ask for a raise?
 Do I have to take the drug test?
Make payroll jobs interview questions work for you. Be strategic in how you use these last 10
minutes or so of your time with the hiring manager to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the
position and to make a great lasting impression.

Accountemps, a Robert Half company, is the world’s first and largest specialized staffing firm
for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals. Accountemps has more than
340 locations worldwide. More resources, including online job search services and the
Accountemps blog, can be found at accountemps.com.

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