Overseas Accountant Interview

Can you describe your experience with overseas accounting regulations and practices?

I don't have any experience and I study mostly the domestic accounting maybe I can quickly learn the overseas accounting with my knowledge of English accountant terms

Your answer addresses the question about overseas accounting regulations and practices but lacks depth and assurance. While honesty is important, saying you "don't have any experience" can raise concerns for the interviewer about your capability for the role. You also imply a reliance on your English language skills rather than demonstrating how you would overcome knowledge gaps.

To improve your answer, consider emphasizing your willingness to learn and adapt. You could mention specific ways you've previously acquired new knowledge or skills, and highlight any relevant coursework or training you've completed that could relate to international accounting. This would demonstrate a proactive attitude and readiness to bridge your current knowledge with international practices.

For example, you could say: "While my experience has primarily focused on domestic accounting principles, I am highly motivated to expand my understanding of overseas regulations. I have a solid foundation in accounting concepts and terms, and I am actively seeking resources and courses in international accounting standards. I believe that my adaptability and strong analytical skills would help me quickly grasp the nuances of overseas practices."

Overall, I would rate your answer 2/5. You acknowledged your limitations, but it lacked a forward-looking perspective that would reassure the interviewer of your potential fit for the role.

How do you ensure compliance with local regulations when dealing with international subsidiaries?

I will familiarize myself with local accounting standard by consulting with local expert and tax regulators and then I will keep in touch with subsidiary team to ensure the accurate data collection

Your answer demonstrates a basic understanding of the importance of compliance with local regulations when dealing with international subsidiaries. You mentioned two key aspects: familiarizing yourself with local accounting standards and maintaining communication with the subsidiary team. This shows initiative in seeking external expertise and a collaborative approach.

However, your response could be improved by adding more specific actions and considerations. Here are some points to enhance your answer:

1. Research Local Regulations: You could mention conducting thorough research on local regulations and laws, including any changes in tax policies or accounting standards.

2. Regular Training: Highlight the importance of providing regular training for both yourself and the local team on compliance matters to stay updated.

3. Documentation Process: Emphasize the establishment of a robust documentation process to organize compliance-related information and audits.

4. Internal Controls: Discuss implementing internal controls that cater specifically to the nuances of different jurisdictions to ensure compliance.

5. Collaboration: Mention collaborating with external auditors or legal advisors who specialize in the local market to ensure adherence.

An improved response could sound like this: "To ensure compliance with local regulations when dealing with international subsidiaries, I would begin by conducting thorough research on local accounting standards and regulations. I would engage with local experts and tax regulators to clarify any complex issues. Additionally, I would foster regular training sessions for the subsidiary team to keep everyone informed about compliance requirements. Establishing a robust documentation process and implementing tailored internal controls would be crucial. Lastly, collaborating with external auditors and legal advisors would help ensure ongoing adherence to local laws."

Rating of your answer: 3/5. Your response shows awareness of the key issues but lacks depth and specificity.

What accounting software are you familiar with that could assist in managing overseas accounts?

During my study I study EPR system and I think it may be helped me when I doing the overseas accounting job

Your answer touches on relevant themes, but it lacks specificity and detail, which could impact the impression you make in an interview. Here’s how to evaluate it and suggest improvements:

1. Relevance and Specificity: While mentioning an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is a good start, your answer could benefit from naming specific software that you are familiar with, such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite, or QuickBooks. This specificity shows you have practical knowledge that could be directly applied to managing overseas accounts.

2. Application: You might want to expand on how an ERP system can be beneficial in managing overseas accounts. For example, you could mention features like multi-currency transactions, compliance with international accounting standards, and support for various tax regulations across different countries.

3. Experience: If you have any hands-on experience with any accounting software, even if it was during your studies or internships, mentioning that would strengthen your answer. Specific examples of how you have used software to solve problems or streamline processes would be advantageous.

4. Conclusion: Summarize by highlighting your willingness to learn and adapt to new software while underlining your foundational knowledge.

Improved answer example: "I have studied ERP systems like SAP and Microsoft Dynamics 365 during my coursework. These systems are invaluable for managing overseas accounts, as they support multi-currency transactions, facilitate compliance with international financial regulations, and allow for real-time reporting across different jurisdictions. In my internship, I used QuickBooks for managing accounts payable and receivable, which sharpened my accounting skills and enhanced my understanding of financial software. I am eager to learn new systems as needed for the role."

Rating: 2.5/5.