How to Answer: Describe a typical payroll day in your current position.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Payroll Specialist job interview.
6. Describe a typical payroll day in your current position.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like details around how you organize your payroll days. Perhaps you have a special checklist that you utilize on the day you run payroll, or maybe your software system has a checklist for you. Provide the interviewer with an overview of what an average payroll day looks like for you, remembering that the interviewer's goal is to hear that you are organized, diligent, and pay attention to detail.
Written by Christine Pasqueretta
1st Experienced Example
"I have a monthly checklist with different due dates. I split tasks from the start, middle, and end of the month. Then, I put all of these tasks in my Google calendar and set up alerts. Using these organizational tools, I never miss a deadline and focus on efficiency rather than waste time trying to remember what tasks are next. Missing even a single pointer can mean a delay in employee salary distribution which is unacceptable. This importance is why I am sure to remain diligent and pay attention to every deadline and detail."
Written by Christine Pasqueretta
1st Answer Example
"One of the things I love most about my work as a Payroll Specialist is there is no such thing as a 'typical' day. I am always managing an aspect of the payroll cycle, whether in preparation, inputting, processing or auditing. As always, things will come up that my team and I address, such as payroll inquiries from business leaders or employee compensation questions. This variety keeps my role interesting since I love to problem-solve. I'd love it if you could take me through an average day in this position with Company XYZ."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 6th, 2021
2nd Experienced Example
It depends on the day. On a payroll processing day, I have a list of tasks that I perform and each task is completed at a certain time. For example, reviewing timesheets and sending reminders for anything that is incomplete, reviewing and recent payroll or benefit changes in the system to ensure accuracy, then the final timesheet upload, and payroll processing.
The day after payroll is processed, I focus on creating xx number of payroll reports and transmitting and validating the 401(K) information.
Written by Carrie Nelson on October 28th, 2022