Accounting Interview Questions and Answers in Kenya

Accounting interviews can be challenging, as they test not only your technical skills but also your understanding of industry standards and your ability to handle real-world scenarios. 

If you’re preparing for an accounting role in Kenya, this guide provides common accounting interview questions and answers, along with tips to help you stand out.

Common Accounting Interview Questions and How to Answer

1. Can You Tell Us About Yourself?

This question is a chance to summarize your qualifications and experience.

Example Answer:
“I am a CPA-certified accountant with 5 years of experience in financial reporting, tax compliance, and budgeting. At my previous job with XYZ Ltd., I streamlined the accounts payable process, saving the company 10% in operational costs. I enjoy working with data and ensuring accuracy in financial management, and I’m eager to contribute my skills to your team.”

2. What Are the Key Responsibilities of an Accountant?

Employers want to ensure you understand the role.

Example Answer:
“An accountant is responsible for preparing and analyzing financial statements, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, managing budgets, and providing actionable insights through financial data. They also play a critical role in maintaining accurate records and advising on financial strategies.”

3. What Accounting Software Are You Proficient In?

Highlight your technical skills with specific examples.

Example Answer:
“I have extensive experience with QuickBooks, Sage, and Microsoft Excel. In my previous role, I used QuickBooks to manage payroll and generate financial reports, and I leveraged Excel for advanced data analysis using pivot tables and macros.”

4. Can You Explain the Difference Between Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable?

This is a fundamental accounting concept that showcases your knowledge.

Example Answer:
“Accounts payable refers to the money a company owes to its vendors or suppliers for goods and services received, while accounts receivable represents money owed to the company by its customers. Both are recorded in the balance sheet but on opposite sides—accounts payable as liabilities and accounts receivable as assets.”

5. How Do You Ensure Accuracy in Your Work?

Accuracy is critical in accounting, so highlight your attention to detail.

Example Answer:
“I use a structured approach to ensure accuracy, including double-checking entries, reconciling accounts regularly, and reviewing reports before submission. I also use accounting software with built-in checks to minimize errors and ensure compliance with financial regulations.”

6. How Do You Stay Updated on Accounting Standards and Tax Laws?

Staying informed about industry changes is crucial for accountants.

Example Answer:
“I stay updated by regularly attending professional development seminars, subscribing to newsletters from ICPAK (Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya), and following updates from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). This ensures I am aware of any changes to tax laws or accounting standards.”

7. Can You Explain What a Balance Sheet Is?

This question tests your knowledge of financial statements.

Example Answer:
“A balance sheet is a financial statement that provides a snapshot of a company’s financial position at a specific point in time. It consists of three main components: assets, liabilities, and equity. The formula is Assets = Liabilities + Equity, ensuring the sheet is balanced.”

8. How Do You Handle Tight Deadlines?

Employers want to see how you manage stress and prioritize tasks.

Example Answer:
“I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, breaking larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. I also communicate effectively with my team to delegate tasks when necessary. For example, during a busy tax season, I successfully filed over 50 returns by creating a detailed schedule and focusing on high-priority clients first.”

9. Can You Describe a Time You Resolved a Discrepancy in Financial Records?

Employers want examples of problem-solving skills.

Example Answer:
“While reconciling accounts, I noticed a discrepancy in supplier payments. After reviewing the records, I discovered an invoice had been duplicated. I immediately corrected the entry and implemented a new system to flag potential duplicates, preventing similar issues in the future.”

10. What Is Depreciation, and How Is It Recorded?

This question gauges your technical understanding of accounting concepts.

Example Answer:
“Depreciation is the systematic allocation of an asset’s cost over its useful life. It reflects the wear and tear or obsolescence of the asset. In accounting, it is recorded as an expense in the income statement and a reduction in the asset’s value in the balance sheet.”

Behavioral Questions for Accounting Interviews

1. How Do You Handle Stress During Financial Audits?

“I focus on staying organized and maintaining clear communication with my team. By preparing in advance and ensuring documentation is in order, I reduce the chances of last-minute issues. During audits, I stay calm and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines efficiently.”

2. Describe a Time You Improved a Financial Process.

“In my previous role, I automated the expense reporting process using Excel macros, reducing errors by 30% and saving the accounting team 10 hours per week.”

Tips for Succeeding in an Accounting Interview

1. Understand the Job Role: Review the job description thoroughly and align your answers with the employer’s needs.
2. Prepare for Technical Questions: Revisit core accounting principles like financial statements, taxation, and bookkeeping.
3. Highlight Your Achievements: Use numbers and examples to demonstrate your impact.
4. Showcase Your Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and time management are crucial for accountants.
5. Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the organization’s financial challenges and industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Employers Looking for in an Accountant?

• Strong technical skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Problem-solving ability.
• Knowledge of local tax laws and regulations.

2. What Should I Bring to an Accounting Interview?

• Copies of your CV.
• Certificates (e.g., CPA certification).
• A notebook and pen for notes.

3. How Do I Handle Questions About Weaknesses?

Be honest but strategic. For example:
“My biggest challenge was delegating tasks, but I’ve worked on building trust in my team and now delegate effectively.”

4. How Long Should My Answers Be?

Keep responses concise—about 1–2 minutes per question.

Conclusion

Preparing for an accounting interview requires a solid understanding of technical concepts, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to demonstrate your value to potential employers. 

With these common questions and answers, Kenyan job seekers can confidently tackle their next interview and land their dream accounting role.