CFOs Say Job Applicants Make Most Mistakes During Interviews

Nov. 10, 2005 (SmartPros) — Acing the interview is no easy feat, a new survey shows. Nearly one-third of CFOs polled believe job applicants make more missteps at this stage of the hiring process than at any other.

The survey, developed by Robert Half Finance & Accounting, asked more than 1,400 CFOs, "In which of the following job application areas do you feel candidates make the most mistakes?"

Their responses:

Interview 32%

Resume 21%

Cover letter 9%

Reference checks 9%

Interview follow-up 7%

Screening call 6%

Other 2%

Don't know/no answer 14%

"Not knowing enough about the company or position, displaying a bad attitude or inquiring about compensation prematurely can all leave a negative impression with hiring managers," said Max Messmer, chairman of Robert Half Finance & Accounting and author of Job Hunting for Dummies. "For job seekers, the interview represents a time to shine. Thorough preparation -- including researching the employer, rehearsing responses to common questions and understanding appropriate topics to discuss -- is the key to avoiding potential pitfalls."

According to Messmer, how candidates behave during an interview is often viewed as a barometer of how they will perform if hired.

"Accounting professionals must be able to present complex data and concepts to senior executives, clients and colleagues in other departments, many of whom may not have financial backgrounds," he said. "By effectively delivering information in a challenging situation such as the job interview, accountants can prove they possess the communication skills required to be successful."

The resume also is a critical job search tool, Messmer added. "The most fail-safe method for ensuring all application materials are error-free is to have a friend or family member review them before they are submitted."