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Résumé and job interview tips for CPAs

Make your interview

count

Getting a potential employer’s attention with a résumé is only
the first step. Here are some tips to help you overcome anxiety
and be your best professional self during a job interview whether
it’s in-person or virtual.

■ Be aware that, in addition to accounting and technology
skills, recruiters often look for emotional intelligence dur-
ing interviews — those soft skills that include the ability to
communicate effectively and get your point across without
resorting to one-word answers or being too verbose.
■ Look straight at the interviewer and maintain great eye con-
tact. If you are interviewing remotely, remember to look at the
camera. Be aware when a sensitive or tough question comes
up that you don’t answer in a defensive manner or allow your
voice or body language to reflect defensiveness.
■ Avoid using filler words such as “uh,” “mm,” or “like.” How you
communicate during the interview provides a preview of how
you may communicate with your clients and peers. Practice and
preparation will help you avoid these awkward fillers.
■ Be aware of your tone of voice, attitude, and body language.
Avoid folding your arms as if you’re bored. Keep your hands
either on your lap or on the top of the table or desk.
■ If you tend to be jittery, plant both feet solidly on the ground.
■ Remove distractions. If you are interviewing remotely from
home, be sure children and pets are out of the way. Test your
technology to avoid embarrassing gaffes, and whether in
person or online, always silence your phone.
■ Compiled by Teri Saylor, a freelance writer based in North Carolina.
To comment on this infographic or to suggest an idea for another
article or infographic, contact Chris Baysden, a JofA associate
director, at Chris.Baysden@aicpa-cima.com. ■

AICPA RESOURCES

Visit the Global Career Hub from AICPA & CIMA for help with More interview tips
finding a job or recruiting, mycareer.aicpa-cima.com
“Podcast: How to Succeed in Your Remote Job Interview,” Global
More résumé tips Career Hub, July 14, 2020, tinyurl.com/ye35kd9z
“The Top 5 Ways to Improve Your Résumé,” CPA Insider, Sept. 23, “CPA Job Interview Tips From a Recruiter,” CPA Insider, Nov. 18, 2019,
2019, tinyurl.com/yzbuu7zx tinyurl.com/y6mfzy46 IMAGE BY EXDEZ/ISTOCK
“Résumé Secrets From a Former Recruiter,” CPA Insider, Dec. 10,
2018, tinyurl.com/yfulzfsj