Job interviews can be nerve-wracking at the best of times. Even though you know you’ve got the skills, how do you make sure the person sitting across from you sees it too?
The good news? You’re not alone in this. The finance and accountancy world is changing fast, and with a bit of smart prep (and confidence!), you will stand out. Whether you're a newly qualified accountant or someone who's been around the block, there are things you can do to boost your chances.
Understanding the current job market
Right now, the UK finance job market is going through a bit of a shake-up. AI is taking over more of the number-crunching, which sounds scary but actually, it’s opening doors for people who can think strategically and use tech to their advantage. If you’re good with numbers and you know your way around new software or tools, you’re already ahead of the curve.
Tax, weirdly, is having a bit of a moment too. Changes in tax laws, both here and abroad, mean businesses need people who know how to navigate the rules. If you’ve got experience in this area, or you’re willing to learn, it’s a solid route to go down.
On the flip side, the economy’s still a bit up and down, and that’s making some companies hesitant. You might see more temporary or contract roles floating around, but don’t let that put you off. These can be a great way in and can become permanent.
Identifying in-demand roles and skills
Browse the listings on a recruitment agency’s site and you’ll find there are certain roles and skills that crop up a lot. Financial controllers and finance business partners are at the top of the list. Basically, if you’re someone who can do the numbers and help a company make smarter decisions, you’re in a great position.
And if you’re handy with data analytics or can use platforms like Power BI? Even better. Employers want people who can spot patterns, make predictions, and give solid advice based on real numbers. You’ll also find that to match the changes in the market, AI skills are also creeping into more job specs. So, if you've dabbled in automation tools or machine learning, this can work to your advantage.
It’s not just about tech, though. Being able to work well with other teams, explain financial technicalities without using jargon, and offer up useful ideas goes a long way. It’s those softer, people-focused skills that can push you ahead of the crowd.
Preparing for interviews
The job market in finance and accounting may be competitive, but there are ways you can shine:
Before the interview, have a proper nosey through the job description and match your experience to what they’re looking for. Think of real examples that show what you’ve done and the difference it made.
Make sure you can talk confidently about both the technical stuff and how you’ve worked with others. For example, did you help your team meet a tight deadline? Did you suggest a better way to track budgets? Those little wins can speak volumes.
Do your homework on the company. Don’t just skim the website. Read their latest news, check out their values, and get a feel for what matters to them. This shows you’ve made an effort.
Also, if you’re using a recruitment agency, be honest with them about what you want (and what you don’t), and stay in touch. The more they know you, the better they can match you with roles. They can also help with interview prep, polish up your CV, and even guide you through salary negotiations.
You don’t need to tick every single box on a job description to be the right person for the role. Finance might be serious business, but getting the job doesn’t have to be. You've got this.
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