Can you provide an example of a time when you caught an error that others had missed? How did you handle it?

Sample answer to the question

A more solid answer

I can provide an example of a time when I caught an error that others had missed. In my previous job as an accounting assistant, we were reconciling the company's bank statements. During the process, I noticed a discrepancy between the recorded deposits in our system and the actual deposits made to the bank. Initially, I double-checked the calculations and reviewed each transaction individually to ensure there were no errors on our end. Once I confirmed that the error was not on our part, I reached out to the bank to investigate further. Through collaborative efforts with the bank's representative, we discovered that the error was due to a miscommunication on their end. They had mistakenly credited the deposits under a different account. I compiled all the evidence, including bank statements and transaction records, and presented them to my supervisor and the bank representative. Working together, we rectified the error and ensured that the appropriate accounts were credited. This experience highlighted the importance of not only being detail-oriented but also proactive in detectin

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more details on how the candidate handled the error. It demonstrates their analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaboration skills. However, it can still be further improved by incorporating the candidate's communication skills and the outcome of the situation.

An exceptional answer

I can provide an example of a time when I caught an error that others had missed. In my previous role as an accounting assistant, we were conducting a financial audit for a client. During the review of their accounts receivable, I noticed a significant discrepancy between the reported sales and the corresponding revenue recorded. I immediately flagged this issue to my supervisor and proposed conducting a thorough investigation. To handle the error, I started by reviewing the sales transactions from the past quarter, cross-referencing them with the invoices and customer payment records. This analysis revealed that a substantial number of sales were not properly recorded in the system, resulting in understated revenue. I collaborated with the sales team to retrieve any missing documentation and rectify the records. Additionally, I collaborated with the finance team to adjust the financial statements and accurately reflect the revenue. Finally, I prepared a detailed report for the client

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer expands on the solid answer by providing even more specific details on how the candidate handled the error. It demonstrates their analytical thinking, attention to detail, collaboration skills, and ability to take ownership of the situation. The answer also highlights the candidate's initiative in proposing a thorough investigation and their ability to communicate the findings effectively. It goes beyond the basic and solid answers by mentioning the collaboration with other teams, the adjustment of financial statements, and the preparation of a detailed report for the client.

How to prepare for this question

Review your past experiences and identify instances where you caught errors or discrepancies. Prepare specific examples with details on how you handled them.
Focus on highlighting your attention to detail and analytical thinking skills. Provide concrete examples of how you double-checked information and performed thorough reviews.
Emphasize your ability to collaborate with others. Describe situations where you worked together with colleagues or external stakeholders to rectify errors.
Highlight your effective communication skills. Discuss how you communicated your findings, proposed solutions, and presented the information to relevant parties.
Demonstrate your proactive attitude. Explain how you took initiative to investigate, propose solutions, and ensure the errors were corrected properly.
Showcase your ability to take ownership of the situation. Describe how you were responsible for driving the error resolution process and ensuring accuracy in financial records.
Familiarize yourself with basic accounting principles and auditing standards. This will help you understand the context of the error and provide more comprehensive answers.

What interviewers are evaluating

Detail-oriented
Analytical and critical thinking
Teamwork and collaboration