Finance Interview Tips: The Do’s and Dont's for

Why a Strong CV is Non-Negotiable for Finance Professionals in 2025

As a Senior Resourcer at Sharp Consultancy, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs...From those just starting out to seasoned professionals with decades of experience. One thing remains consistent: in today’s competitive market, a strong CV isn’t optional—it’s essential. Today, South Yorkshire’s finance landscape is more dynamic than ever. With growing demand across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech, accountancy and finance professionals are expected to bring more than just technical skills to the table. Your CV is your first opportunity to prove you’re up to the challenge. This blog marks the start of a three-part series focused on helping you craft a standout CV tailored to your career stage and goals. In this first post, we’ll cover general CV tips relevant to all finance professionals. In the next two instalments, we’ll dive deeper into: Transactional Finance CVs – how to highlight your experience in roles such as purchase ledger, sales ledger, and credit control. Part-Qualified Finance CVs – how to position yourself for progression while studying towards your qualifications. Stay tuned for practical advice and real-world insights to help your CV rise to the top of the pile. 🕒 First Impressions MatterRecruiters and hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds scanning a CV. That means your CV needs to immediately communicate relevance, professionalism, and potential. A clean layout, clear structure, and tailored content can make the difference between landing an interview or being passed over. 🔍 Specialist Skillsets Are in DemandFinance roles today go far beyond number-crunching. Employers want professionals who understand how finance supports wider business goals. Whether it’s streamlining reporting, implementing new systems, or driving cost efficiencies, your CV should highlight the tangible impact you’ve made. This is your chance to showcase your value-add—what makes you different from the next candidate. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and make them memorable. 📍 Standing Out in YorkshireYorkshire is home to a diverse range of industries, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to professional services and digital tech. This diversity creates exciting opportunities—but also fierce competition. To stand out, your CV should reflect sector-specific experience and transferable skills. Whether you’ve worked in a fast-paced SME or a large corporate environment, highlight how your background aligns with the needs of the region’s employers. 📊 Business Acumen is a MustFinance professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to strategic decision-making. Roles in FP&A, commercial finance, and business partnering are on the rise, and employers want candidates who can offer insight—not just information. Your CV should reflect your ability to influence outcomes. Have you helped drive revenue growth? Supported investment decisions? Improved forecasting accuracy? These are the stories that resonate with hiring managers. 📈 Show a Clear Story of ProgressionRecruiters look for signs of growth and development. A strong CV doesn’t just list job titles—it explains the “why” behind each move. Did you step into a leadership role? Take on a new challenge? Gain exposure to a different sector? Even lateral moves can be powerful if they show a deliberate effort to build your skillset. Make sure your CV tells a cohesive story of your career journey. 🔑 Final ThoughtsIn Yorkshire’s fast-moving industries, a sharp, well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new opportunities. It’s not just about listing experience—it’s about showing impact, adaptability, and commercial value from the very first glance. Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, now is the time to invest in your CV. Visit Our Candidate Advice Pages HereLooking 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 us TODAY and let's chart your career path together.

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Finance Interview Tips: The Do’s and Dont's for Success

Securing your next role in accountancy and finance can hinge on how well you perform during the interview stage. From Assistant Accountant positions to Finance Director opportunities, the fundamentals of making a strong impression remain the same.

Our expert finance recruitment consultants in Leeds and Sheffield have pulled together this essential interview guide to help you stand out and put yourself firmly in pole position for your next career move.

✅ DO’s – How to Excel in Your Finance Interview

Research the Employer Thoroughly

Before attending your interview, take time to understand the organisation. Read their annual report, explore their website, and review their presence on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. For finance roles, focus on understanding their financial performance, recent mergers or acquisitions, and any industry trends affecting their sector.

A woman, an accountant, and a man, a recruitment consultant, are seated together, deep in discussion about job opportunities.

Know the Role and Recruitment Process

Understand the responsibilities of the finance position you’re interviewing for, whether it’s Management Accountant, Financial Controller, or CFO. Clarify the format of the interview and prepare for potential assessments, such as technical finance tests or psychometric evaluations.

Prepare Your CV Knowledge

Revisit your CV and the job description in detail. Be ready to discuss your experience in budgeting, forecasting, month-end reporting, or strategic finance projects, and link these to the specific requirements of the role.

Dress Professionally and Make a Positive First Impression

Appear polished and professional while staying comfortable. Strong eye contact, a confident handshake, and a natural, friendly demeanor can help establish rapport from the outset.

Show Enthusiasm and Business Value

Finance employers want candidates who are technically capable and commercially astute. Demonstrate enthusiasm for the role and explain how your skills—such as process improvements, cost savings, or system implementations—can add measurable value to their finance function.

Communicate Clearly

Give concise, well-thought-out answers to questions. Use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide structured, impactful responses, particularly when discussing achievements or challenges you’ve overcome.

❌ DON’T’s – Mistakes to Avoid

Be Negative About Past Employer

Keep your responses professional and positive. Instead of criticising, explain your motivation for seeking new opportunities, such as career progression or a desire for broader commercial exposure.

Arrive Late

Punctuality is crucial. Plan your journey in advance, particularly for interviews in city centres like Leeds or Sheffield where parking or public transport delays may occur. Aim to arrive 10 minutes early.

Scrabble letters spell "don't be late" beside an alarm clock on a bright yellow background.

Lead with Salary Discussions

Avoid raising salary or benefits until the interviewer brings it up. Finance hiring managers are more likely to progress candidates who show genuine interest in the role and business objectives rather than solely remuneration.

Provide Inaccurate Information

Honesty is essential. With our in-depth market knowledge, we know that most employers are well-informed about finance salary benchmarks. Be transparent about your current package and career history to build trust.

Hide Career Gaps

If you’ve had breaks due to studying for ACA/ACCA exams, maternity leave, or redundancy, address these openly. Demonstrate how you’ve maintained or developed your finance skills during these periods.

Appear Overconfident or Arrogant

Confidence is key, but balance it with humility and a collaborative approach. Employers value finance professionals who are capable leaders and approachable team players.

Your Finance Recruitment Partner

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 us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.