The Art of the Question – what’s your tax interview strategy?

The art of the question – what's your tax interview strategy?

Preparation is key when you’re in the midst of an interview process. It’s an opportunity to showcase your experience and discuss how you could be the best fit for the role you want.

But have you thought about what your key takeaways from the interview will be?

In advance of the interview, consider what information isn’t given in the job description or what you would like to learn about the business. What are the insights you need to get during the interview to gain a better understanding of the team you could potentially join?

Questions are personal to each individual, but here are some suggestions for what you might like to ask during your next interview…

How many people are in the tax function?

Generally speaking, the bigger the tax function the more specific or specialised your duties will be.

Where are the decisions made?

If decisions are made where you will be based, it’s more likely that you will gain commercial insights and exposure to key executives.

How much reliance is there on advisors?

If there is an option to rely on advisors for compliance or complex technical queries, this may offer you time to spend on more value-added/strategic duties.

Does tax have a seat at the table?

This may seem like a big question to ask, but it will give you a sense of how involved the tax function is in decision making or figure out if tax is an afterthought for management.

Is there a defined tax strategy in place?

The majority of established businesses will have a tax strategy in place – asking this question will help you identify if the company has a proactive approach to tax planning and management.

Be curious, be thoughtful, and be strategic with your questions – an interview is always a two-way street!

 

More about Kate… 

Kate Flanagan is a Partner with the Tax, Treasury, and Practice area of the business, within the accounting and tax talent advisory and recruitment practice in Barden Leinster. If you want bespoke career advice, connect with Kate on LinkedIn or at kateflanagan@barden.ie

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