Role profile library
Predefined role profile
Accountants
The behaviours this profile measures, drawn from the great{with}talent job library and occupational research. Download the full competency-based interview guide to assess them.
The full interview guideCompetency-based questions, follow-up probes and a 1–5 rating form for each behaviour — ready to print or run on screen.
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Behaviours assessed — 5 priority competencies
1
Technical Capability
Has the necessary knowledge, skills and proficiency to conduct their role. Demonstrates mastery in their area of technical capability. Stays up to date with advances in their field and commits to their continuous development.
Why this matters for Accountants: IFAC International Education Standard 2 (Technical Competence) covers financial accounting & reporting, audit & assurance, taxation, governance/risk/internal control, and the regulatory framework. Accounting standards, tax regulation, audit methodology, software — the technical floor is high and the profession demands continuous development.
2
Analytical Skills
Breaks a problem down into its core elements. Draws on different data sources to inform their thinking, identifying the most pertinent issues within this. Incorporates the emotive elements of a situation into their thinking, before making sound inferences based on the available information.
Why this matters for Accountants: IES 3 (Professional Skills — intellectual) and IES 2 (audit & assurance) cover analytical reasoning under regulatory frameworks. Reading accounts, spotting anomalies, constructing arguments from data — the craft is analytical at its core.
3
Dependability
Conscientious and thorough in their approach to work, delivering what they promise to the necessary standard. Behaves in line with the organisation’s values and ethical principles.
Why this matters for Accountants: IES 4 (Professional Values, Ethics and Attitudes) covers the IFAC ethical principles: integrity, objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, professional behaviour. Client trust, regulatory obligations, ethical conduct. Reliability is non-negotiable.
4
Organisational Skills
Establishes clear priorities and builds plans to ensure delivery on time. Works in a systematic manner and manages resources efficiently. Quickly adapts plans as circumstances require. Sees things through to completion.
Why this matters for Accountants: IES 3 (organisational skills) and the cyclical nature of audit/year-end work require systematic planning and execution. Year-end cycles, client portfolios, deadlines — the work only gets done through methodical scheduling.
5
Customer Focus
Builds effective customer relationships to ensure needs and expectations are understood. Understands the importance of the customer to the business, seeking regular feedback whilst being prepared to say no when needed.
Why this matters for Accountants: IES 3 (interpersonal & communication) and the advisory dimension of professional accounting practice centre client trust. Whether the client is internal or external, understanding what they really need (not just what they ask for) and advising accordingly defines the trusted professional.