If you’re heading into an interview at an accounting firm, you’re probably focused on how to answer questions well. But don’t forget—interviews are a two-way street. The questions you ask show that you’re thoughtful, prepared, and serious about your career. They also help you determine whether the firm is a good fit for your goals and values.
Here are 10 smart questions to consider—and why each one matters.
1. Can you describe the onboarding and training process that interns/new hires receive?
Why ask: Helps you gauge support and structure, the access you will have to resources, and mentorship or guidance provided during your transition into the role at the firm.
What you’ll learn: How the firm invests in their employees.
What it shows: You’re committed to growth and value your learning and development.
2. What does the first year typically look like for a new hire in this role?
Why ask: This gives you a realistic picture of onboarding, training, and expectations.
What you’ll learn: How quickly you’ll get involved in client work, what the support structure looks like, and how the firm helps new hires succeed.
What it shows: You’re motivated to contribute and interested in hitting the ground running.
3. How does the firm support CPA licensure and ongoing professional development?
Why ask: Earning your CPA license is a major milestone early in your career.
What you’ll learn: Whether the firm offers exam prep resources, time off to study, reimbursement, or bonuses. You’ll also get insight into continuing education opportunities the firm may offer to help maintain your CPA licensure, once obtained.
What it shows: You’re invested in your growth and value a firm that shares that commitment.
4. How does the firm approach performance feedback and career progression?
Why ask: Regular feedback and clear advancement criteria help you improve and set career goals.
What you’ll learn: Whether reviews are formal or informal, how often they occur, and how people typically advance from one level to the next.
What it shows: You’re focused on growth and accountability.
5. What types of clients will I work with, and how early will I have client interaction?
Why ask: The variety and complexity of client work shape your learning experience.
What you’ll learn: The firm’s client base (industry, size, scope), and how much responsibility you’ll be given early in your role.
What it shows: You’re curious about the work itself and want to add value.
6. How does the firm manage busy season workloads and support work-life balance year-round?
Why ask: Long hours are common in accounting during peak times. Understanding how the firm approaches this helps set expectations.
What you’ll learn: The expectations of busy season hours, how the firm supports staff during those months, and what the culture is like the rest of the year.
What it shows: You value sustainability and are thinking about your long-term success in the role.
7. How would you describe the firm’s culture and approach to teamwork?
Why ask: Culture affects everything—from how teams collaborate to how people support each other.
What you’ll learn: Whether the environment is formal or relaxed, whether collaboration is encouraged, and how the firm celebrates wins and supports challenges.
What it shows: You’re looking for a place where you’ll thrive—not just perform.
8. What opportunities exist to get involved outside of client work (committees, community service, firm events)?
Why ask: Participating in firm initiatives can help you expand your skills, network, and visibility.
What you’ll learn: Whether team members are encouraged to join internal groups, attend firm events (internal and external), or get involved in community engagement.
What it shows: You want to be part of the bigger picture and are eager to contribute beyond your core responsibilities.
9. What does the firm’s long-term vision look like, and how has it evolved recently?
Why ask: Knowing where the firm is headed helps you assess long-term alignment and stability.
What you’ll learn: Whether the firm is growing, innovating, or shifting in response to market changes.
What it shows: You’re thinking long-term and want to grow with the right organization.
10. What do you personally enjoy most about working here?
Why ask: This helps humanize the conversation and gives insight into what makes the firm special to its people.
What you’ll learn: Firsthand experiences that go beyond formal descriptions of benefits or policies.
What it shows: You’re building a genuine connection and seeking a culture where you can belong.
Looking Ahead
Asking thoughtful questions helps you make informed decisions and shows that you’re serious about building a meaningful career in accounting. Focus on the topics that matter most to you, and listen carefully to the answers. The right questions can help you find not just a job, but the right job—at a firm where you can learn, grow, and contribute.
Cassidy Wood joined ARB in 2019 as a college intern and became a manager in 2025. She specializes in providing business advisory and attest services primarily to commercial businesses, auto dealerships, construction companies, and employee benefit plans. Since joining ARB, Cassidy has been actively involved with the firm’s college campus recruiting efforts and plays a key role in identifying and attracting top emerging talent.
