How to Answer Common Interview Questions for

Jordan Motlib: Behind the Desk

In this edition of Behind the Desk, we sit down with Jordan Motlib, who joined Sharp Consultancy earlier this year after building his experience in FinTech recruitment. Now working across the qualified finance market, Jordan brings a fresh perspective shaped by his background in financial technology and his journalism degree — both of which have helped him develop the communication and relationship-building skills that are central to successful recruitment. Since joining the team, Jordan has quickly adapted to the finance and accountancy recruitment market, developing the technical knowledge needed to support both clients and candidates with confidence. In this interview, he shares his journey into recruitment, the lessons he’s learned so far, and the qualities he believes make finance professionals truly stand out in today’s market. Understanding the Journey: Personal Insights and Inspirations You joined Sharp Consultancy in early 2026 after several years in FinTech recruitment — what attracted you to moving into finance and accountancy recruitment? Moving from FinTech into accountancy recruitment felt like a natural progression, given both sit under the wider finance umbrella. Sharp also stood out to me because of its strong reputation in the market and the depth of relationships the business has built over time. Looking back, how would you describe the journey from university into recruitment? It’s definitely been a fast-paced and steep learning curve but certainly a rewarding one. A big part of my journalism degree was building rapport quickly which is a key transferrable skill that any recruiter needs. What’s been the biggest learning or adjustment since joining Sharp and working in this market? Definitely gaining a deeper understanding of the finance and accountancy landscape, particularly the different qualification routes. I have realised this is a market, more so than others, where credibility and knowledge are so important. Learning about the technical aspects has enabled me to be in a position where I am able to offer genuine insightful advice to both clients and candidates. Industry Perspective: Lessons and Approaches in Recruitment You work with qualified, newly qualified, and qualified-by-experience professionals — what qualities do you think make candidates stand out in today’s market? Technical ability is obviously important, but what really makes a candidate stand out is their attitude and mindset. Employers want people who are commercially aware and are proactive. My most recent interviews and placements have all been with candidates who are ambitious and looking to develop – if you can get this across in interviews you will do well. What advice do you find yourself giving candidates most often during their job search? You have to look at the bigger picture. Salary is obviously an important part of any job search, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of other key factors such as career progression, the people you’ll be working with, and the overall culture of the business. I’ve seen situations where someone moves for a slightly higher salary, only to be looking again 12 months later because there’s limited opportunity to develop or the environment isn’t the right fit. In my experience, candidates who take the time to think about where a role could take them in the long term, rather than focusing purely on the immediate offer, tend to be the ones who are happiest and most successful in their careers. Building strong relationships is a big part of your approach — what do you think makes a recruiter genuinely valuable to both clients and candidates? I think trust and honesty. A good recruiter should understand what candidates and clients are looking for, but what makes them truly valuable is the ability to give constructive feedback and provide deeper insight to the market. Being transparent and giving honest feedback makes the process so much more effective for everyone involved. Ultimately, the goal is to build relationships that go beyond just one placement and whilst that may sound cliché it’s genuinely at the forefront of how I operate. Fun and Light-hearted Rugby, football, cricket, golf — safe to say you’re a sports fan! If you had to pick one sport to play forever, which would win? Definitely golf. I do still play rugby and football but it’s definitely a lot more painful the next day. At least with golf I can play at my own pace and enjoy the 19th hole. What’s your ideal way to spend a day off? I love getting out to the Peaks whenever I can. There are loads of good walks and pubs to finish at. If you could watch any sporting event live anywhere in the world, what would be top of your list and why? It’s a toss up between day 4 of the Masters or the Boxing Day test at the MCG. But because of England’s terrible record in Australia, I’ll stick with the Masters. Whether he’s advising candidates on their next career move or supporting clients in finding the right addition to their team, Jordan is focused on building long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and genuine insight. As he continues to grow his presence within the qualified finance market, his people-first approach and commitment to understanding the bigger picture will no doubt make a lasting impact across Yorkshire. We’re pleased to welcome Jordan to the team and look forward to seeing him progress. -- As Sharp Consultancy, we are committed to giving recruiters the support and platform they need to develop their careers — and we’re always open to conversations with those considering their next move. Get in touch if you’d like to find out more about Careers at Sharp.

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Interviews can be a daunting part of the recruitment process.

But with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of what employers are looking for, you can set yourself apart from the competition.

At Sharp Consultancy, we support part-qualified, qualified, and senior finance professionals across Yorkshire and the North to secure their next opportunity. Based on our extensive experience working with employers across sectors, here’s a guide to handling the most frequently asked finance interview questions.

1. Tell Me About Yourself

Illustration of a meeting featuring an accountant in a job interview with a hiring manager.

What the interviewer is looking for:

A concise summary of your background, experience, and suitability for the specific finance role.

Best approach:

Keep your answer focused and relevant to the position. Start with your current role (e.g., “I’m a Management Accountant with 4 years’ experience in manufacturing”), highlight key achievements (cost-saving initiatives, improved reporting cycles, etc.), and briefly explain why you're seeking a new challenge.

✅ Tip: Link your experience to the job spec—highlight your commercial awareness, technical capabilities, and desire to contribute to the wider finance function.

2. What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?

What the interviewer is looking for:

Self-awareness and an honest, constructive reflection on your development.

Best approach:

Choose strengths that are key to the role—such as financial analysis, stakeholder engagement, or systems implementation—and back them up with examples. For weaknesses, choose something honest but not detrimental (e.g., “I used to struggle with delegation but I’ve developed this through leading projects”).

✅ Tip: Employers value finance professionals who are always looking to improve—especially those stepping into Finance Manager or Business Partnering roles.

3. Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?

What the interviewer is looking for:

Ambition and commitment, and whether your career path aligns with the role and the company.

Best approach:

Discuss your career goals in the context of the employer’s structure and opportunities. For example, a newly qualified accountant might aspire to become a Finance Business Partner or step into a more commercially focused role.

✅ Tip: Show that you're committed to growing within the business rather than just viewing the role as a stepping stone.

4. Are You a Team Player?

A diverse group of business professionals collaborating in an office, highlighting teamwork and the accountant's role.

What the interviewer is looking for:

Your ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, particularly across finance and non-finance teams.

Best approach:

Give a specific example—perhaps working alongside operations to produce accurate budgets or assisting sales teams with margin analysis. Demonstrate how your input supported wider business goals.

✅ Tip: Teamwork is essential for roles in FP&A, commercial finance, or shared service environments.

5. Why Should We Hire You?

What the interviewer is looking for:

Someone who understands the role and can demonstrate real value to the team and business.

Best approach:

Highlight your technical capabilities (e.g., month-end reporting, forecasting, audit preparation), commercial insight, and personal attributes such as reliability or drive. Emphasise how your previous success can translate into tangible results for their finance team.

✅ Tip: Be specific—mention systems knowledge (Sage, SAP, Excel), sector experience (FMCG, construction, not-for-profit), or management experience if applicable.

6. Why Are You Leaving Your Current Role?

What the interviewer is looking for:

A positive and professional reason for wanting to move on.

Best approach:

Focus on progression, seeking a new challenge, or a change in business culture. Avoid criticising your current employer—finance is a close-knit market and professionalism matters.

✅ Tip: If you've had several short stints, be ready to explain them constructively—such as contract work, restructuring, or clear development steps.

7. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?

A woman with a question mark above her head, pondering questions for a job interview as an accountant.

What the interviewer is looking for:

Evidence that you’ve researched the company and thought seriously about the opportunity.

Best approach:

Ask about the future of the finance function, potential development opportunities, or how the role contributes to the business strategy. Avoid focusing too heavily on salary or benefits at this stage.

✅ Tip: Ask about systems used, team structure, and how finance supports commercial decision-making.

Let Sharp Consultancy Help You Prepare for Your Next Interview

Whether you're an Assistant Accountant, Finance Analyst, Financial Controller, or CFO, the right preparation can make all the difference in securing your next opportunity.

At Sharp Consultancy, our experienced consultants in Leeds and Sheffield support finance professionals across Yorkshire and the North with tailored interview advice, CV guidance, and market insights to help you succeed.

Download our Interview Guide

Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to usTODAYand let's chart your career path together.