30 RSM Interview Questions & Answers

Below is a list of our RSM interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.

Accomplishment

1. What’s the best organizational risk assessment advice you’ve given your clients?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is looking to hear what you feel is the most valued advice you provide your clients regarding the mitigation of risk. How you answer will indicate how aligned your values are with theirs. As they state on their website, "No business is immune to risk challenges. First, you must know where your cybersecurity and other vulnerability risks exist. Then, address them." Explain why your advice is important to you and why your clients value that advice. Try to align it as well as you can with RSM's philosophy.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"Throughout my career, I've always taken the time to network with other risk and compliance professionals. At a national conference about five years ago, I attended a breakout seminar on whistle-blowing policies surrounding risk. I heard a colleague talk about a policy that their organization adopted that removed all fear of retribution for employees that brought risk concerns forward to the risk manager. Upon returning from the conference, I approached our COO about adopting a similar policy, and I consider this my greatest piece of advice ever. Upon communication, a few employees came forward with significant concerns that otherwise wouldn't have in fear of retaliation against them or a colleague."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"Early in my career, I learned the need for having a long-term, extended outlook on potential risks, and mitigation of those risks was extremely important. When I took my current job, my department was far too shortsighted in risk prevention efforts. The best advice I've ever given was to our CEO to allow professionals in risk management to the table on financial planning and operational planning conversations for the future. If hired here at RSM International, this is one area of expertise I could bring to your clients."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Adaptability

2. How do you feel about traveling for work or transferring to another location?

What You Need to Know

Not only may you be expected to travel to the business locations of your clients, but there may be opportunities to relocate to other office locations, of which there are close to a hundred. Therefore, your interviewer wants to know how flexible you would be to moving where you are most needed within their company. How willing you would be to do so will show them how ambitious you are and whether you are willing to do whatever it takes and seize every opportunity to advance your career with them. As they state on their website, "Wherever you are, we are ready to collaborate on your success."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Entry Level Example

"I am very interested in this opportunity and have ambitious career goals and aspirations. I have a lot to offer and would be happy to contribute to the organization anywhere in the company. I am open to moving where those career opportunities would take me. Given the opportunity, even if it means traveling or relocating, I would take it."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Experienced Example

"I would be open to carefully evaluating and considering any opportunity the company offers me. I might not take any offer to relocate, but I would be open to giving my best to the company and placing my talents wherever they would best serve the organization and my career goals and aspirations. I would serve my company and my career goals in the same way as I would serve those of my clients."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Behavioral

3. What do you anticipate to be your biggest initial challenge if hired for this position?

What You Need to Know

This question tests how your professional experience has prepared you for this role, as well as your familiarity with the job expectations. Showcase the research you've done, how your prior experience informs your expectations of the position, and your plan for approaching this hurdle. As they say on their website, "There's always a learning curve with a new company - from how to access new software and tools to understanding team dynamics. When you join, you'll be paired with a peer navigator who can help you through those first few weeks at RSM and ensure you're set up for success."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Entry Level Example

"As you can see from my resume, most of my career experience is in the food industry. If fortunate enough to be hired for this position, the biggest area for learning for me would be the finance side of other industries like technology, telecommunications, and healthcare. From day one, I would begin by thoroughly researching the clients here at RSM International and speaking with as many industry experts as possible through business networking. While learning the ins and outs of other industries is the biggest learning curve for me, I see it as a great opportunity to become more proficient and effective in the work I'd be doing for you."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 4th, 2023

Behavioral

4. How do you effectively break ground and build strong, long-lasting relationships with your clients?

What You Need to Know

Business consulting is fast-paced and requires the ability to build relationship after relationship with all the clients you work with. Your interviewer is looking for insights into how you build relationships. Talk about the techniques you employ to build long-lasting working relationships and earn trust.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Focus Your Answer On

RSM centers their customer service around the power of being understood. "The 5 C's: Critical thinkers, caring, curious, courageous, collaborative. We believe the five key behaviors, we call the 5 C's, are core to our culture and essential to successfully delivering the power of being understood. They have been built on years of research about effective advisors, what differentiates RSM, and how our clients and colleagues want to experience us. Not only are they core to our brand promise, they support us in demonstrating our values and are key to being a successful leader in all aspects of life. At RSM, we cultivate the 5 C's throughout an individual's entire career to enable them to be not just a great client server and a great leader, but also a great person."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Entry Level Example

"I firmly believe that success in any role I've played in my career was due in part to the relationships I've built in those roles. Whenever I have the chance to work with a new colleague or customer, my approach is to create an initial connection with them to build trust. After that point, my interpersonal skills take over through active listening. I use my listening skills to learn about the motivating factors and needs of the person I will be working with. This molds the respect and trust between us even more. I think this approach would be critical in working with new clients regularly here at RSM International, and I'd love the opportunity to bring these skills to the table for you."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 4th, 2023

Answer Example

"While this may sound funny to you at first, I try to build relationships by adapting to the great corporate lifestyle and culture here at RSM International. I was extremely excited to hear about the flexibility and collaborative openness, the exchange of ideas among your teammates. I've been working for six years in an environment that is very opposite of an open culture for new ideas, and for me, it will feel great to bring new ideas to the team here and to collaborate with them. So I would do everything I could to learn and embrace the culture, so that I could get up to speed quickly and start collaborating with them, having built a strong foundation of trust."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 4th, 2023

Capability

5. What steps would take to evaluate the financial situation of an RSM client?

What You Need to Know

How you answer this question will demonstrate your experience level and whether you'll meet their standard of "audit excellence. For us, it's all about our clients. For auditors, 'serving clients' means providing services with objectivity, competence, and due care for the benefit of the stakeholders who demand audit excellence."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

How to Answer

Talk about how you begin the process of discovering the needs of your clients. Remember, RSM's customer service model is centered on "The power of being understood." Highlight your ability to actively listen and ask questions. The position you are interviewing for relies on a heavy dose of trust with your clients, so any of your techniques used to build rapport and establish trust with your clients is of value.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"As an experienced wealth planner and financial advisor, my first goal with new clients is to build trust right from our first meeting. I take time to talk about my knowledge, experience, and ultimate goals for the client. From there, I open the door for clients to talk about their situation and goals. I listen attentively and reflectively to their thoughts to truly understand their needs. Once I know where they want to be, I can craft a solid plan for them. As you can see, I submitted several professional references from clients I have served in the past, and they would all be willing to talk about my ability to provide a trusting service to them."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Answer Example

"If hired for this position, my first step with new clients would be to have a Q&A session where I can learn about their history, finances, and plans for the future. The Q&A session would allow the client to ask questions of me as well. At the end of the initial session, a foundation of trust is built, and I let my excellent customer service and knowledge lead the rest of the way with the client."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Career Goals

6. Why do you want to work for RSM International?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious if you want to work specifically for them and why. How you answer will tell them if you are playing the numbers game or if this opportunity with them stands to further your career. Remember that they are interested in employee retention and eliminating turnover. So before your interviewer, spend the time necessary to ensure this is a good fit for both you and this employer and identify how this opportunity stands to help you with your predetermined career goals and aspirations.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Focus Your Answer On

Look at some of the branding and advertising efforts they have put into recruiting the right talents for their organization; "Your career journey happens here. Success is both professional and personal. It just feels good here. We foster an environment of camaraderie, collaboration, and learning, one in which you can be your authentic self and feel seen and supported by leaders and colleagues as you pursue your personal and professional best. Expanding our team with dedicated teammates, values-driven individuals, and diverse thinkers results in better work and a great work experience. Our clients benefit from fresh insights and energy as we partner to support them, and our teams enjoy a work environment that inspires and empowers them to thrive."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"I have spent a good deal of time researching many organizations which I would be well qualified to serve and where I would consider myself an asset. I noticed that RSM's culture aligns with my ideal working environment. Often, you can detect the sincerity behind a company's branding by reading what their employees have to say about their company. The way RSM fosters an environment of camaraderie and collaboration convinced me to make this company my top choice to grow my career."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"I want to work somewhere where I can be my authentic self. I have a lot to offer my teams and clients, and my approach aligns with the power of feeling understood. But I feel like if you want your clients to feel understood, you also have to feel understood not only by them but by your leadership and your teams. This instills confidence in your professional self, which allows you to put your all in and perform at your best. So, I liked what RSM says about feeling seen and supported by leaders and colleagues as one pursues their personal and professional best."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

View This Question and Answers

Communication

7. How would you approach sharing difficult information with an RSM client?

What You Need to Know

A role with RSM International will entail occasionally delivering difficult information to their clients regarding their finances and tax situation. This requires clear and strategic verbal and written communication while communicating with empathy. "We build strong, long-term relationships by understanding others and their aspirations, and remaining empathetic to their unique challenges, needs, and preferences. We show that we care by: Being interested in and concerned about others. Understanding their goals, challenges, and aspirations. Showing empathy. When we demonstrate how much we care, we build trust, deepen relationships, and are given the opportunity to do more for others." Describe your approach, and explain how it aligns with their philosophy.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"Last tax season, I had to do just that with a high-profile client. During my initial meeting with the CFO, they were mentally prepared to see the same tax burden as the year prior. But after my work was done, it was found that the organization's capital gains and real estate taxes had significantly increased. I approached the CFO directly to inform her of what I found because I knew her personality best suited a straightforward approach. I demonstrated how the organization's selling of assets impacted them negatively when they weren't prepared for it. She was appreciative of my work. I would take this approach again with your clients if hired for this position."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Answer Example

"Tax law is a great unknown for many businesses and individuals, and yearly changes in business laws can bring the need to deliver bad tax news to clients. If I encountered a situation like this here at RSM International, I would clearly explain the issue to the client and hear their thoughts while empathizing with them. Then, to build trust with them moving forward, I would talk about strategies that would ease their tax burdens in the future."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Compatibility

8. If you uncovered fraudulent activity with a RSM International client, what steps would you take following your discovery?

What You Need to Know

Fraud is a serious matter that some auditors occasionally come across. Familiarize yourself with RSM's specific guidelines and code of ethics; they offer several avenues of addressing unethical behavior and state, "If you see or suspect unethical, illegal or unsafe activity, don't ignore it-tell someone! You could keep a potentially serious situation from harming our clients, our people, or our firm." Share any stories where you've faced such situations, and explain how your approach aligns with theirs.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"Throughout my career conducting financial audits, I've always adhered to the SAS 99 statements on fraud. As long as I took every step possible in evaluating the risks - verifying that information was correct and verifying actual fraud - I would ensure that my evidence was sound and approach management of the organization and the auditing team with the information I gathered."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"The potential discovery of fraudulent activity starts with a methodical approach to the audit, assessing all potential risks and gathering all evidence possible to ensure that fraudulent activity is actually taking place. Once this is done, I would take the proper measures to notify leadership of the activity and walk through all necessary steps, documenting the fraud activity and notifying leaders."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Compatibility

9. RSM International values philanthropy and community giving. How do you give back to others?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious about how aligned your views and values are with theirs. Share any relevant experiences, from volunteer work to charitable donations or any intentions you have to do so. "RSM believes in strengthening the communities where we operate and in which our employees live and work. We give of our time, our resources, and our skills to benefit civic, community, and charitable organizations and the people they serve. We encourage our local offices to assess the needs of their communities and determine how their resources will be allocated. We take action to protect our natural resources and the environment. We engage in and support activities to increase equity in our communities."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"I work a lot, but when I have free time, I spend it with my grandkids. It gives my son a break, as he is a full-time single dad. In addition to this, I volunteer at the local drop-in center every Christmas to help feed the homeless. Giving back is very important to me."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"Volunteering and charitable acts are important to me. I volunteer at the local drop-in center every Sunday."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Competency

10. What steps would you take following an internal audit process?

What You Need to Know

Your work as an auditor with RSM International doesn't end when the audit is done. So perform thorough research, determine their approach to writing follow-up reports, and draw parallels to your experience. "As an auditor with RSM, you will work directly with clients, key decision makers, and company owners to gain a better understanding of the challenges facing clients. These experiences allow you to see firsthand the positive impact your work can have on the client's business."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Answer Example

"Through my time working with different financial auditors, the follow-up to an audit is often overlooked as most people look to move on to the next project. In reality, clients look for follow-up reports to learn and grow from their audit experience, and I take great pride in this part of the process. My writing skills are clear and to the point in my findings. Without having my head get too bogged down in other work, I write and submit reports to leadership in a very timely manner following the completion of an audit."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Competency

11. Give an example of short- and long-term growth strategies you set for a client.

What You Need to Know

An effective growth strategy has a long-term plan, but the success of the long-term plan relies on short-term, tiered goals that build long-term goals. Explain the importance of goal setting, and discuss a time when you helped an organization move toward strategic success in a manner that is aligned with its values and approach.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Focus Your Answer On

At RSM, "we believe that collaboration leads to better outcomes, and we seek and share perspectives to encourage innovative thinking to solve problems and enable others to seize opportunities. We demonstrate collaboration when we: Ask for people's opinions or perspectives. Cultivate diversity and include others. Reflect differing points of view in our questioning and recommendations. Connect across all facets of the firm as we continue to grow in size and complexity. The challenges we tackle in our business and for clients are tough, and no one person can have all the answers. By gathering diverse perspectives and collaborating, each of us will be stronger and better able to help others achieve their best."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"A couple of years ago, I helped a healthcare organization on the west coast develop a growth plan that entailed building one new hospital and three new clinic locations over the course of five years. As the liaison for the entire plan, I knew that goal was aggressive but achievable if the right short-term goals were set. In working with high-level leadership and specific department leaders, goals and timelines were set for obtaining funding, building permits, staffing plans, and ribbon cutting from the start. Even to this day, I stay in contact with the leaders on a consultative basis to ensure that any hiccups in the short-term goals help meet the long-term goals. In the end, the success of a long-term goal is always reliant on many smaller short-term goals."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"During my time in manufacturing, I've quickly learned the importance of both short-term and long-term goals in achieving growth goals over time. Hitting short-term goals leads to success in the long term, and I utilize both long- and short-term goals when developing growth strategies. This is best shown when my current organization developed a fiscal growth strategy to increase overall revenue by 25% over three years. We looked in many directions to help this, but our main focuses were increased production and reduced waste. By casting such a wide net here, short-term goals for each aspect of the project were vital to increasing revenue by over 35% in that time frame. What a success!"

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Creative Thinking

12. Share a unique situation where you innovated an outside-of-the-box method of helping an organization save on taxes.

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious about how effectively you'd represent RSM International as a trusted advisor to their clients. "As our clients' first-choice advisors, we work hard to understand them better than anyone else. Together, we address their everyday business challenges to help ensure their future success, with sound tax planning advice and compliance services. RSM tax professionals help clients better understand their tax position while ensuring they meet their larger business goals." Think of a time you came up with a creative tax savings solution for your clients by understanding their needs, challenges, and aspirations.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"Last year, I worked with an upstart small business in New York that employed around 20 people. Hearing that a big burden for him was providing health care coverage, which he chose to do to hire and retain great staff, I educated him on the savings he could see in starting an HSA associated with a high deductible plan. In the end, this plan was a win for the owner to see a ton of tax savings, and the employees benefited with a great plan with the business contributing towards their HSA every year."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"When working with corporations on tax advising issues, I always walk through business expenditures with a fine-toothed comb because how large expenditures are claimed can make or break taxes for years to come. When working with a client a few years ago, I noticed they were deducting full costs upfront when the depreciation method would have worked out much better for them in their financial situation. The only thing it took to convince them was a simple educational meeting."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Creative Thinking

13. Give us an example of a time you thought outside the box to develop a strategic plan.

What You Need to Know

In today's day and age, conventional thinking can only get organizations so far, and innovative and diverse perspectives are valued. "We ask probing questions and seek diverse perspectives to gain understanding, challenge thinking, and generate new ideas. When we approach our work and our relationships with a sense of curiosity vs. a view that we know it all, we strengthen relationships and demonstrate our commitment to understanding. It also affords us a stronger platform to ultimately display our knowledge and share our ideas and insights." Talk about a time you used a unique and unconventional tactic to develop a strategic plan.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"As the leader of the strategic growth committee of my employer right out of college, I felt that it was important to solicit employee feedback as we looked to create and implement our first-ever strategic plan. I created an idea box where employees were prompted to anonymously submit any helpful ideas for creating an outward-looking success strategy. I communicated with employees through email, team meetings, and a company newsletter. After three months, our committee went through every suggestion in the box and brainstormed which ideas could be implemented into our strategy. In the end, we received many great thoughts and ideas that we likely wouldn't have come up with on our own."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"I believe too many organizations only look internally when developing a strategic plan when they should also be soliciting feedback from customers, stakeholders, and the general public. When working with a regional grocery retailer last year, I utilized public focus groups to delve into the minds of consumers to aid in creating a strategic plan. We wanted to get as much relevant information as possible from the focus groups, so a great deal of thought was put into the questions asked of the focus group."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Critical Thinking

14. Give an example of a time you used data to analyze risk for an organization. What tools did you use?

What You Need to Know

Gathering and analyzing data is a crucial step in the evaluation process, as is putting that data to good use. Spend time looking into the digital tools and innovations RSM offers their clients, and contrast these to what you have used professionally. "Our teams train in the latest emerging technologies, partner with RSM colleagues across the globe, and utilize our strategic business relationships to bring both innovative and proven ideas and tools to each client relationship." RSM offers to train their clients on "how to approach tools and technologies that will better protect your organization in the future, how to build out a strategic risk management framework that can stand the test of time, and all the various changes that may be tossed your way." Discuss a time you gathered such data and the tools you used to analyze and deliver the desired results.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"As you can see from my resume, I've spent much of my career working in the manufacturing industry. In that industry, my risk focus was on employee safety and lost time prevention. When I took my current position, I analyzed data from the previous ten years to find trends in workplace injuries that led to work comp claims. Using a very intricate Excel spreadsheet that I created, I found a few different problem areas. From there, I worked with management and our safety coordinator to implement new work practices and policies."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"In my current role, I am using the Resolver risk management software, and it has been an effective tool in storing and analyzing data and then putting the data to functional use. Last year, I was tasked with leading a team of individuals to assess the risk of potentially defective products that my organization was putting to market. My job was to research and gather data on potential lawsuit risks the organization could be looking at while others focused on the internal pieces that would fix the problem. Resolver was a great tool for our whole project, and luckily, my organization didn't face any lawsuits because of our quick work."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Customer Service

15. How would your customer skills and philosophy benefit RSM International and our clients?

What You Need to Know

"The clients we serve are the engine of global commerce and economic growth. Our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential." Highlight your ability to communicate with, empathize with, and ultimately understand the needs of your clients. Describe your approach to customer service and the personal touch you'd bring to their team. Share any examples from your work history that demonstrate those skills.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Answer Example

"Working with companies on their finances is often a private and sensitive topic. Because of that, I take an active listening and educational approach with my clients by laying out my goals for them first and then hearing their thoughts to work towards a common goal. As in any job, communication is key to setting expectations and learning what my clients expect from me. If you would contact any of my professional references - all clients I've worked with in the past - they won't hesitate to talk about my excellent customer service skills."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Experienced Example

"As a tax professional, my customer service starts with my expertise in areas where most clients are under-educated. I take the time to educate my clients about my processes in preparing their taxes, my expectations from them to help in the process, and what they can expect from me throughout our time together. The clients I work with appreciate the education and expectations because it helps us work together more wisely and efficiently as we lower their tax burden."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Customer Service

16. Customer service is our top priority at RSM International. What is your customer service philosophy?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious how your customer service aligns with their approach. Examine RSM International, note the keywords they use in their branding, and try to naturally incorporate them into your answer. "We work to deliver the power of being understood not only to our clients but also to our people. When we feel truly understood, we are empowered to move forward with confidence personally and professionally."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Answer Example

"I noticed on your website that you put a lot of value into your customers by actively listening to their needs. You also survey them regularly while staying on top of industry trends so that you can provide them with innovative new services. To me, customer service goes beyond friendliness and efficiency. You need to understand your customer's business needs and have the ability to analyze their future needs so that you can respond appropriately to their business landscape changes."

Experienced Example

"As overused as this phrase may be, 'Service with a smile' has always been my customer service philosophy. Very few people can resist a great smile and a friendly interaction! Friendliness warms customers up, makes them more inclined to work with you, and diffuses conflict quickly."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Customer Service

17. How would RSM International's clients benefit from your knowledge and experience?

What You Need to Know

This question is your chance to discuss the unique skills and knowledge you would bring to RSM International. Research RSM International and their clients and examine how your unique experience could benefit them. "Our advisors understand your unique opportunities and challenges. When you combine our knowledge about the middle market with our first-choice advisor relationships and leading-edge technology, the value we deliver to our clients and the middle market is truly differentiated."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"As you can see from my resume, I have extensive experience in risk management in the healthcare industry. Having worked with some major players in the industry, I know your healthcare clients would benefit the most from the experience and solutions I could help provide them. Not to leave other industries out, I think my experience in the healthcare realm will also translate nicely to your clients in other areas of the private sector."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Answer Example

"Having worked in accounting and tax law in a few different industries, I have the unique experience of creating new organizational policies and procedures in my current role. In hearing more about this role, I think this experience would be very beneficial for your clients as I would be helping advise them in their practices, and creating new policy would be crucial in that process."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Diligence

18. As a RSM International consultant, how would you verify the accuracy of the tax filings of a business's accounting department?

What You Need to Know

Share your systems approach to evaluating a company's accounting department, regardless of the size of the business. Discuss the methods you employ to detect errors or discrepancies in a company's financial statements, books, and data entry.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"In any tax consulting project, data verification and sampling are of utmost importance to me, and I would ensure this step happens with every client here at RSM International. Depending on the accounting and finance department's books and how they are kept, my data verification could be as simple as printing documents and verifying samples against filed information or running the data verification through a program. I have extensive experience running both methods of data verification and wouldn't hesitate to use either with the clients here."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"I fully realize that my work advising businesses on their tax filings comes down to verifying their income statements, balance sheet, and cash flow statements. To verify, I would have to work with leaders in reconciling their financial statements with bank records, credit card statements, invoices, receipts, and any other documents that show physical proof of financial statements. Realizing that this can sometimes be difficult with businesses that don't keep accurate records, have segregated finance departments, or multiple physical locations, I would leave no stone unturned in this initial verification process with your clients."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Direct

19. Do you have a preparer tax identification number (PTIN)?

What You Need to Know

This is a simple screening question to determine your qualifications. If required for your role, ensure your PTIN is current or you've completed all steps for renewing before your interview. Also, volunteer any other certifications or qualifications you have that may be of value to them, and examine your career goals and what other qualifications you hope to attain in the near future. "We are focused on developing leading professionals and services to meet their evolving needs in today's ever-changing business landscape."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"Having been a professional tax preparer for over 12 years, I have held my PTIN since 2007 with no lapses in the number since first obtaining it. Every November, I ensure that I am good to go for the coming tax season by renewing."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Diversity

20. When directing a team, how do you deal with those who challenge your direction with a perspective different from yours?

What You Need to Know

Before answering this question, examine their values and how they define their culture. "We celebrate talent, embrace each other's differences and genuinely care about our team members' success. To sustain our culture with intention, we devote teams and resources to support learning, understanding, diversity, inclusion, and the talent experience." RSM doesn't necessarily see challenging perspectives as a bad thing. Instead, it frequently fosters innovation. So avoid examples where you dealt with subordination, as this could be interpreted as ineffective leadership. Showcase your emotional intelligence and how you value the input of everyone on your team. Your greatest success as a team leader is the success of your team.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"I want to bring my best self to work and have strong teams that I trust as much as they trust me. That means always besting my personal best; to do that, you have to be willing to grow and learn from others. My professional and personal growth is best served by learning what my teams, or tribes, have to contribute to my evolution. I am always open to listening to, taking in, and considering all perspectives. If there is a reason you might not implement the suggested strategy of someone on your team, then you better share that good reason for the sake of their growth and development. We are neither above the other. All for one and one for all."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"I suppose it depends on how they challenge my direction. As long as it is respectful and doesn't compromise the integrity of my leadership, there is nothing wrong with that. I also never respond defensively to being challenged, regardless of how that challenge is delivered. That can also compromise the integrity of my leadership. I always respond with a cool head and embrace the differences of every member of my team. If they lack tact or challenge me in an insubordinate way, they have a growth opportunity ahead of them, and I need to help usher in that growth by showing you genuinely care about their development. But, ultimately, as a leader, it is incumbent on me to understand the intentions, the background, and the unique perspective of every member of my team and proceed from there."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Education

21. How do you stay current on changing trends and regulations in the financial planning field?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is looking for those candidates who will be considered a trusted resource by their clients as a representative of their company. This requires staying on top of both legal changes and trends in the world of financial planning. Tell the interviewer about any extracurricular educational opportunities you take advantage of or journals/publications you subscribe to. Also, share your knowledge of what RSM specifically offers in this regard. "As political winds continuously shift, middle market businesses are often left scrambling to keep up with the latest policy and regulatory changes. Our professionals meet regularly with the policymakers responsible for legislative and regulatory change, conveying the perspectives we hear from clients directly and through our proprietary research."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Answer Example

"Being a certified financial planner, I love having the opportunity to take continuing education credits to help me become better for my clients. Last year, I attended a two-day estate planning course that helped me develop some unique strategies for clients over the past couple of months. If hired for this position, you can be sure that I'd look forward to continuing my education throughout my career. I'm always open to new suggestions from my employer."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 2nd, 2023

Experienced Example

"Being an avid reader and lifelong learner, I subscribe to The Economist and Financial Advisor Magazine. Both publications have great content about large-scale and small-scale financial topics that impact my work. I love to read before bed each night, and I've learned many things in those 20 minutes each night that were very beneficial to my clients."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Experience

22. How has your education and experience prepared you for RSM International?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer has the general facts about your education and experience from your CV and resume. But this is your chance to breathe life and offer context. Put some thought into how you've applied your education, both theoretical and practical, to your success in the field. Also, explore how you are constantly learning and growing, and offer what you hope to learn next. "Ongoing development and learning - Immerse yourself in a culture of ongoing development that includes a mix of educational opportunities, exposure to a supportive community, on-the-job experiences, and an inclusive RSM environment. Engage in programs, certifications, training, and other resources to support your leadership, advisory, and specialized development."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last ten years working in private business for a large manufacturer that sees profits from a few countries around the world. While this has somewhat exposed me to international tax laws, I know I would be working much more in-depth in this realm here at RSM International. If hired for this position, I would face a learning curve with each new client I worked with. Because of that, I would take it upon myself to read and network with other professionals to become as knowledgeable as possible about the tax laws in different countries."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"My experience advising on high-level tax law changes to corporate boards and C-level suites in the United States would greatly benefit your international clients here at RSM International. As I have always had to stay on top of and educate myself in the laws here at home, I would continue to do the same at a much higher international level if hired for this position."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Experience

23. Describe your experience working with high-level executives and leaders from the companies of your clients.

What You Need to Know

RSM International's representatives are counted on to work well with the Managers, Directors, CEOs, CFOs, CAO, and leadership of all of their clients. Your interviewer is aiming to assess your comfort level. How you answer could inform them of your experience level. Offer your approach to navigating, understanding, and working effectively with the leadership of your clients.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Focus Your Answer On

One of their core values, what they call the five C's, is courage. "We demonstrate strength and confidence in challenging traditional ways of thinking, having the courage to look forward and prepare for tomorrow. We demonstrate courage when we: Voice an alternative point of view, share new ideas and insights, have courageous conversations about issues or opportunities, stay in the tension because we know it will lead to better results, the work we do is high-stakes and requires courage to confront issues, help others improve and spark the exploration of new opportunities. Our foundation of caring, curiosity and collaboration can help us be courageous without being confrontational."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"In my current role, I work directly under our Chief Financial Officer and sit on a couple of different committees that our Chief Executive Officer is on. We have a great working relationship. I am comfortable approaching him at any moment with questions or to bring forward new ideas. He is aware of my strengths and respects my opinions on matters in my wheelhouse, so he never hesitates to come to me with important things. I think the keys to our strong relationship are the respect we show for each other and our open lines of communication."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 2nd, 2023

Answer Example

"Throughout my career, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with employees at all levels of the organizations I've worked with. Working effectively with anyone requires a personal touch and a respectful approach. Whether I work with frontline sales staff or members of the C-Suite, I take the time to get to know the person, their job, and how I can best help them in my role. This approach helped me build a relationship with a Sales Executive that a few of my colleagues had struck out with in recent interactions."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Experience

24. What roles are you comfortable assuming as part of a larger team?

What You Need to Know

In consulting, teamwork requires the versatility of working as part of a larger team or as a team leader, and knowing where your strengths lie, what is appropriate, and when. Examine your areas of expertise, your strengths, where you feel the most comfortable, and when it is appropriate to recruit to the help of others. "Our firm expects its professionals to seek assistance from persons possessing specialized knowledge and expertise whenever they encounter situations in which they lack sufficient knowledge or experience, and in certain specific situations prescribed by our consultation policy. Our firm has designated the subject matter experts and functional and industry specialists who provide professionals with access to knowledge and expertise in a variety of specialized, complex, or unusual areas."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

Experienced Example

"I am comfortable working in any role within a team, and I think my experiences throughout my career demonstrate this well. At many times in my career, I've been the legwork of team operations and have easily taken direction on projects and been able to hit pre-established deadlines. I've also led many projects and have shown my ability to lead others in a team effort, delegate tasks, and set project milestones. If hired for this position, you can rest assured that I can be a key team player with your clients in helping better their business."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Answer Example

"Since the beginning of my career, I've always been a natural leader in a team-based environment. My excellent communication skills, honesty, critical thinking, and decision-making skills have proven time and time again that I can lead others in the most effective way possible. And while being a leader comes naturally to me, I can easily let others take the lead on projects."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Experience

25. What steps would you take to create a new audit process for RSM International's clients?

What You Need to Know

RSM International is looking for committed candidates who will provide 'audit excellence.' Examining their approach with their clients, align your approach with theirs where applicable. "For auditors, 'serving clients' means providing services with objectivity, competence, and due care for the benefit of the stakeholders who demand audit excellence. Our commitment to audit quality and professional excellence provides information for our clients and others on matters directly related to audit quality, such as governance, leadership, independence, audit performance, and monitoring."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"If asked to consult with a new client on their audit process, my first goal would be to determine the overall purpose of the audit. I would have to ask questions about regulating bodies for the industry and internal quality perspectives that would guide my work. Only when those questions are answered can I move forward with assembling an audit team, giving the team purpose, and setting expectations for the new process. With this great start, my leadership skills in the audit process would take over and greatly benefit your clients here at RSM International."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"Any solid auditing process starts with great planning. Planning includes outlining the scope of the audit, clearly defining what data and information is required to successfully perform the audit, and selecting a team of individuals to be a part of the audit process. If hired for this position, you can rest assured knowing that I have great experience in planning for and creating auditing processes across many businesses and industries."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Experience

26. What skills will you bring to RSM International's clients when administering their trusts and estates?

What You Need to Know

As your career in finance and trusts/estates has prepared you with the hard skills necessary in the legal and financial sides of business, your soft skills like negotiation and communication are equally important to the work you do and what you can bring to the team at RSM International. Try to distinguish yourself by talking about the unique skills you possess that will \benefit the clients you work with in the administration of trusts and estates.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 6th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"I would say the biggest set of skills that I would bring to the team here at RSM International is my experience working for a large legal firm on the administration of trusts for clients. On the financial side, I was tasked with handling the total values of estates. This, paired with my knowledge of the legal aspect of trusts and estates, would greatly benefit your clients if I was hired for this position."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"If hired for this position, you'll quickly discover that my two greatest skills are my communication style and my ability to problem solve independently. I've worked in the administration of trusts for many high-profile clients in my past work history, communicating with clients during the creation of a trust and with beneficiaries down the road. I can cater my communication to difficult situations and take an empathetic approach at all times. For my problem solving, my work experience to this point has put me in a wide variety of situations where I am comfortable troubleshooting issues with clients without the need for my boss to intervene."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Leadership

27. RSM International’s clients look to us for sound leadership, strategic planning, and growth planning. What is your leadership style and approach?

What You Need to Know

RSM International's clients expect their informed and trusted representatives to deliver sound leadership and effective growth and strategic planning. Share how your leadership style would benefit RSM's clients and how it aligns with their approach and culture. Examine the keywords they use that help define their branding. "The clients we serve are the engine of global commerce and economic growth, and we are focused on developing leading professionals and services to meet their evolving needs in today's ever-changing business landscape. Our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Experienced Example

"Having worked with and led large teams in developing formal growth plans for organizations, I see my role as a consultant and my leadership with clients as being team-based and collaborative. My job is to lead transformational change within the organization because we will ultimately be trying something new with them and implementing change in the future. From my leadership style comes improvement through a team-based effort, and I think the clients here at RSM International would benefit greatly from my style."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Answer Example

"As a consultant, I'd employ a democratic approach with your clients. They will be looking for me to provide the blueprint and the road map for their success, and then I would look to delegate and leave responsibility for implementing them. My approach would be educational and resourceful and would preach teamwork among the entire project team. When I've utilized this approach in the past, it was very well received and helped lead to the success of several large projects."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Performance Based

28. What wealth management strategies do you prefer to use when working with your clients?

What You Need to Know

To assess your skill level, your interviewer will test how knowledgeable you are and how well your approach aligns with theirs. Share how you determine what is best for each client's unique situation, what you do to make their needs feel understood, and how you create strategies for your clients.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"Having guided many clients through very successful wealth management strategies, those successes have always relied upon setting goals and creating budgets that guide people towards those goals. I take the time to know and understand my clients and their short and long-term goals and guide them through setting realistic goals and plans for achieving those goals. Along our journey together, I consistently evaluate progress towards goals and reevaluate budgets if ever needed down the road."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"It depends, of course, on their specific needs, goals, and risk tolerance. I might focus on asset allocation, tax planning, and estate planning. When it comes to estate planning for late-career individuals nearing retirement, my strengths lie in wealth preservation, on wills and estate plans, career exit planning, and cash flow planning post-retirement. But regardless, I believe that it is important to create a personalized plan that will help my clients achieve their financial security."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Problem Solving

29. What common deductions would you recommend for small businesses?

What You Need to Know

This is an opportunity to talk the talk and walk the walk with your interviewer. Showcase your comfort level and experience by sharing the ways you identify overlooked deductions for small businesses. Share how you make them feel understood while minimizing their tax burden and how you earn the trust and repeat business of those clients.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Answer Example

"In my experience working with small businesses, the most commonly overlooked deductions they could take advantage of are vehicle and fleet expenses. While many businesses know this is possible, many fail at maintaining proper documentation of vehicle costs and usage as part of the job. I take it upon myself to walk clients through the proper documentation for future use, and they have all appreciated this insight."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

Experienced Example

"I see a lot of business owners overlook items that I would consider maintenance or facility costs that they can deduct at the end of each year. Repairs on equipment and property are deductible, and business owners often fail to keep proof of payment for such repairs. On top of repairs, most utilities like electricity are also deductible for a business. For small business owners, a huge part of my responsibility is educating them on these deductions. For your clients here at RSM International, my education would help build trust and a long-lasting working relationship."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019

Technical

30. Tell me about a time you successfully implemented an organization design change.

What You Need to Know

When sharing an example of implementing organizational design, cover how you approach each stage, from workflow, procedures, systems, structures, and all the aspects that impact the overall business goals of your client's organization. When describing your philosophy and approach, mention any unique skills, systems, or methods you employ. Share how you dive deep into understanding your client's organization, its design, and how you identify growth opportunities.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

Focus Your Answer On

When answering this question, focus your answer on their core values, especially one of their 5 C's, CRITICAL THINKERS. "We synthesize, apply, and communicate complex information and concepts with clarity, objectivity, and depth, and bring our best thinking and advice to help others make confident decisions. We demonstrate critical thinking when we: Spend time learning new things. Think deeply about issues and opportunities. Bring together diverse inputs into a cohesive perspective. Share ideas and insights with others. The world is evolving rapidly, and each of us has to develop with it. By committing to lifelong learning and applying that learning to our work and our relationships, we will think and communicate as true first-choice advisors."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 7th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"With a background in HR, my organization design work has most often centered around labor efficiencies with organizations. I have a lot of experience evaluating work processes and gauging the appropriate labor needs that are necessary. Last year, I worked with a small plastics manufacturer that wasn't using their automation capabilities to their highest level. They were essentially paying many people to do what some of their machinery could actually do. While it did involve some difficult conversations and some difficult employment decisions, the organization was able to save a lot of labor costs on simple modifications to their processes."

Written by Ryan Brunner on April 16th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"As you can see from my resume, I have vast experience in the transportation and warehousing industries. In my work here, organization redesign has always been a focus to increase efficiencies and profitability. Last year, I helped a large trucking firm implement the UPS logistics philosophy in their routing, saving a lot of money on fuel, maintenance costs, and labor. If hired here, I think my corporate design experience in these areas would translate well to industries like manufacturing and healthcare."

Written by Kevin Downey on October 1st, 2019