Describe a situation where you had to resolve a discrepancy or error in financial records during an audit.
Audit Consultant Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
During an audit, I encountered a discrepancy in the financial records of a client. The total revenue reported in the income statement did not match the revenue recorded in the general ledger. To resolve this issue, I first analyzed the source documents, such as invoices and receipts, to ensure they were accurately recorded. I then reviewed the reconciliation statements and identified a coding error in the revenue accounts. I promptly notified the client's accounting team about the discrepancy and worked closely with them to correct the error. Together, we adjusted the entries in the general ledger to reflect the correct revenue figures. Finally, I documented the entire process and included it in the audit report, highlighting the steps taken to resolve the discrepancy.
A more solid answer
During an audit, I encountered a significant discrepancy in the financial records of a client. While reviewing the income statement, I noticed that the accounts receivable balance was overstated. To investigate this, I meticulously examined the supporting documentation, such as invoices, purchase orders, and shipping records. After careful analysis, I discovered that a sales invoice had been recorded twice, resulting in the inflated accounts receivable balance. I promptly reported the issue to the client's accounting team and collaborated with them to rectify the error. We adjusted the entries in the general ledger, corrected the accounts receivable balance, and reconciled it with the supporting documentation. I also conducted a thorough review of the internal control procedures in place to identify any weaknesses that may have contributed to the error. I documented the entire process, including the corrective actions taken, and communicated the findings to both the client's management and the audit team. This experience showcased my strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of accounting standards.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer provides a detailed account of the situation, showcasing the candidate's analytical skills, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, communication skills, and knowledge of accounting standards. The candidate effectively identifies and resolves the discrepancy, collaborates with the client's accounting team, and conducts a review of internal control procedures. However, the answer can still be improved by including specific outcomes or results of the corrective actions taken.
An exceptional answer
During an audit, I faced a complex discrepancy in the financial records of a manufacturing client. While reviewing the inventory accounts and related transactions, I noticed a significant variance between the physical inventory count and the recorded inventory value. To resolve this, I conducted an in-depth investigation, starting with examining the client's inventory management system and procedures. Through interviews with key personnel, I identified a breakdown in the inventory tracking process, with inaccurate recording of goods received and goods shipped. I collaborated with the client's operations team to implement immediate corrective actions, including strengthening inventory control measures and implementing regular reconciliations between physical inventory counts and recorded values. Additionally, I worked closely with the accounting team to adjust the inventory balance and ensure accurate financial reporting. As a result of these efforts, the client was able to improve their inventory management processes and eliminate the discrepancy. This experience not only showcased my strong analytical and problem-solving skills but also demonstrated my ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and drive process improvements.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer provides a highly detailed and complex situation where the candidate encountered a significant discrepancy in the financial records of a manufacturing client. The candidate goes beyond the scope of the basic and solid answers by conducting an in-depth investigation, identifying the root cause of the discrepancy, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions. The answer showcases the candidate's analytical skills, problem-solving skills, communication skills, and ability to drive process improvements. The candidate also highlights the tangible outcome of the corrective actions taken and their impact on the client's inventory management processes.
How to prepare for this question
- Familiarize yourself with relevant accounting standards and auditing procedures to ensure a strong foundation of knowledge in resolving financial discrepancies.
- Sharpen your analytical and problem-solving skills through exercises and practice scenarios involving financial data analysis.
- Develop strong attention to detail by regularly reviewing and reconciling financial records.
- Enhance your communication skills through effective written and verbal communication exercises, as clear communication is crucial when collaborating with clients and cross-functional teams.
- Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in auditing, especially related to financial record discrepancies and error resolution.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Analytical skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Knowledge of accounting standards
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