30 Tax Revenue Officer Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Tax Revenue Officer interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Describe a time you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you are honest and have integrity. As a tax revenue officer, you may be offered bribes to look past a taxpayer's tax obligations. The interviewer wants to hear that you are ethical and can be trusted if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on an example of a time you had your ethics tested as a tax revenue officer. If you are new to this field, use an example from a previous job or while attending school. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have never had your ethics tested without providing an example of what you would do if they were. If you have never been in a situation where you had to make an ethical decision based on your morals, tell the interviewer that you have not been put in that position and describe what you would do if that happened.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested when working as a tax preparer. I had a client who asked me to falsify their tax return so they would get a larger refund. I refused and explained that I could lose my license and go to jail for falsifying documents. I also told them they could go to jail and asked them to find another tax preparer to do their return. I refuse to work with unethical people."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Tell me about your relationship with your previous boss.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you work with and speak of others. They want to know if you will be an easy person to work with or a challenge. When you answer this question, remain positive, even if the experience wasn't. Keep your answer short and respectful. Avoid talking about any previous drama, and do not speak poorly of your employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you had a great relationship with your previous boss, explain what made it great. If you did not have a good relationship with your former boss, focus on saying, 'I have had healthier relationships in the past with previous employers, but we did the best that we could. Our communication styles were very different, making it challenging at times.' Be sure to have a follow-up answer if the interviewer asks you to expand on what you have just said.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid speaking poorly of your former boss, even if you did not get along. You also want to avoid saying you had an excellent relationship with them if you did not. The interviewer will call your references and find out you were dishonest in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had a very healthy relationship with my previous employer. She was easy to approach, and we often bounced ideas off each other. I would sum it up as a relationship led by strong mutual respect."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Give an example of a time you made a mistake because you did not listen well to what someone had to say.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how well you admit to making a mistake and take responsibility for not listening well. When you can readily admit you made an error, it shows you have honesty and integrity, two good qualities to have as a revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If possible, focus on giving an example related to the revenue officer position. If you are a new revenue officer or do not have an example related to the job, use an example from school, growing up, or another place of employment. The interviewer also wants to hear what you learned from your mistake.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have never made a mistake. Everyone has made a mistake by not listening well. If you do not admit to making an error in your lifetime, the interviewer will determine that you do not take responsibility for your actions.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my last job, my supervisor asked me to prepare a presentation for a product we were launching. She specifically asked me to design the presentation using Google slides, but I used PowerPoint instead. In the past, I had always used PowerPoint and did not pay attention to that detail. After I sent my supervisor the presentation, she pointed out my error. I was embarrassed that I had done the project incorrectly and assured her it would not happen again. I quickly converted my presentation to Google slides and paid closer attention to the specifics of future projects."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Behavioral
4. How do you handle a dispute with a taxpayer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for tax revenue officers to have a taxpayer who disagrees. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. Your response gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential to possess in your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a taxpayer. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Do not say that you avoid or ignore disagreements or get angry when a dispute arises with a taxpayer. The interviewer does not want to hear that you lack conflict resolution and communication skills. You should also avoid speaking poorly of the person you had the dispute with.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found I can fix most disputes with honest, open communication. When a taxpayer is allowed to explain why they are bothered by something, I listen and try to come to a resolution that makes them happy. Most conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Communication
5. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the strong oral and written communication skills required for revenue officer positions. Your job duties will include speaking with taxpayers, coworkers, and supervisors. You will also testify in court when needed and must have excellent documentation skills. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your communication skills could use improvement. The interviewer will pass you over for another candidate if you have poor communication skills. If you need to strengthen your communication skills, you can enroll in a leadership course, public speaking class, or read or watch a video on improving your communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have very strong communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took two years of communications course in college and have honed my verbal and written communication skills over the years. I have a letter of recommendation from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like to see it."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
6. Do you have any certifications related to this field?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks if you have the credentials they require for the job. Some agencies will need you to have an Advanced General/Specific Peace Officers Standards and Training certificate or equivalent. Others may prefer that you possess a Certified Municipal Revenue Officers certificate. Describe any certifications you have related to a tax revenue officer position. If specific credentials are required, the agency should have mentioned that in the job announcement.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on keeping your answer brief. Name any certifications you have and any you are currently working towards achieving. If you do not have any certifications related to the position, explain to the interviewer that while you do not currently possess any certifications, you are willing to obtain them if needed.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If the job requires specific certifications and you do not have them, avoid saying that you do. The interviewer will ask for copies of all certificates before being offered the position. You do not want to be dishonest in any part of the job interview, which would guarantee disqualification from the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do. I have a Certified Municipal Revenue Officers certificate and have completed the Advanced General/Specific Peace Officers Standards and Training course."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
7. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the company or job role are answered during the interview. Ask a question or two to show the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you do not ask questions that could be answered during your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the agency, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid asking questions about salary or benefits. The salary and benefits package is often listed on the job announcement or discussed with Human Resources when offered the position. If you ask about money or the benefits package, it makes the interviewer think you are most interested in the monetary aspect of the job. Of course, it is perfectly acceptable to talk about the salary or benefits if the interviewer asks about your salary expectations. However, you do not want to bring it up yourself.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
8. What are your professional goals for the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have professional goals and a plan to achieve them. When you set goals to improve and grow professionally, it shows that you are motivated and dedicated to your profession. The interviewer also wants to see if your plans include working for the company. Companies invest a lot of money and time to hire and train employees, and the interviewer wants to know that you will be a long-term employee if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing exactly what professional goals you have planned for the next five years and how you will achieve them. If you are new to the industry, concentrate on gaining experience and take continuing education courses. If you have been working as a tax revenue officer for some time, you may plan to pursue higher education or an administrative role. Be sure to highlight that you see yourself with the company in five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have not planned that far in advance or see yourself with another company in five years. If you do not have professional goals, the interviewer will determine that you are not motivated and inspired to grow as a tax revenue officer. If your goal is to move on to another company, the interviewer may not want to invest time hiring and training a short-term employee.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am new to this field, my professional goals in the next five years are to get hired by your company and gain experience. I appreciate that your company offers on-the-job training, which is one reason I applied to your reputable organization. I want to gain experience reading tax returns and conducting investigations by working with your seasoned investigators, attending industry conferences, and working on my continuing education hours."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
9. This position requires out of town travel at times. Will traveling be a problem for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If the interviewer asks this question, they want to ensure you know the job requirements regarding travel and make sure that will not be an issue if hired. Often, tax revenue officers must travel to attend work-related conferences or work on an investigation. If traveling is one of the job requirements, the agency should have put that in the job description, so it should not surprise you in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer that traveling will not be an issue when required. Emphasize that you enjoy traveling to new places and do not have outside obligations that prohibit you from doing so.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you cannot travel when needed. The interviewer wants to hire someone who is flexible and accommodating with the work schedule. If traveling would be an issue for you, explain why. For example, you might care for an elderly relative or have childcare issues. If you have a valid reason for not traveling, the interviewer can then decide how to proceed in the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, traveling will not be a problem. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people and look forward to the opportunity to do so with your agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
10. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of their agency referred you. Tell the interviewer how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the agency website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid forgetting where you heard about the position. If you cannot remember where you learned about the job opening, the interviewer will determine that you do not pay attention to detail and might be applying to many other positions.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about this position from your website. I have only wanted to work for your agency since obtaining my bachelor's degree and set up an alert on your website. I was notified the day the job became available."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
11. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were furloughed. If you were fired, they want to see if you admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with the company culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being direct and honest, and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice or were furloughed or fired, describe the circumstances behind your departure. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewer how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the position with their agency.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying anything negative about your previous employer, supervisor, customers, or coworkers. When you speak poorly of others, it shows the interviewer that you may be a challenging person to work with and talk about others behind their backs.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I left my last job because there was no room for professional growth or advancement. I want to work in a supervisory position, but that was not possible in my previous place of employment because of the company structure. I gave my two weeks' notice and left on good terms. I have an excellent letter of recommendation if you would like a copy for your records."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Direct
12. What do you know about our company?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have researched the company you are interviewing with and learned all you can. It is best to highlight what the company is known for, its mission statement, the customers they serve, how long they have been in business, and who the Commissioner, CEO, or Director is.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on unique or obscure information about the company. Sharing something unique shows the interviewer that you performed extensive research on their company and are enthusiastic about interviewing for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid being unprepared to answer this question. Before any job interview, you must do your homework and find out all you can about the company and the job duties.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I discovered your agency's roots go back to the Civil War. The IRS was created in 1862 to enact income tax to pay war expenses. The current Commissioner is Charles P. Rettig, who was appointed in 2018. Your agency's mission is to provide America's taxpayers with top-quality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and applying the tax law with integrity and fairness to all."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
13. Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you handle adversity and use problem-solving skills to overcome the adversity. The interviewer also wants to understand how you prioritize tasks, work under pressure, and delegate tasks when necessary. It is best to use an example related to a revenue officer, but you can provide an example from college or another job if you are new to the field.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on showing the interviewer that you do not back down from difficult situations. The interviewer wants to hire a revenue officer who can stand their ground and overcome whatever hurdles are put in front of them.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not having an example to provide in your response. Everyone has worked on a complex project, even if it was a school project with a tight deadline. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you can effectively work under pressure as a tax revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am new to this field, so I do not have a situation related to this industry. However, I recently had a challenging project at my current job. I work as a collections agent, and my supervisor was preparing for an internal audit. Two days before the audit, my supervisor had a heart attack and was in the ICU. I was put in charge of the audit, even though I had no prior experience. In two days, I had to figure out what further documentation was needed and learn what to do during the audit. I spoke with a friend who had been audited, and she gave me some helpful advice, and I watched a few videos on what to expect. Overall, the audit was successful, and only one minor discrepancy was found."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
14. Why are you the best candidate for us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the agency and how it will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing them you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the keywords of the qualities, experience, and education the agency seeks in a tax revenue officer. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet all of their job requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Many qualified candidates are interviewing for the same position. Avoid speaking negatively of the other candidates or sounding arrogant when responding to this question. You want to sell yourself in the interview, but don't make the interviewer think you will be a challenging person to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your job qualifications. I have over seven years of experience working as a revenue officer with diverse groups and cultures. I am empathetic, compassionate, level-headed, and work well under pressure. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
15. What do you feel is the most important skill a tax revenue officer should possess?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear what skill you think is the most important for a tax revenue officer to possess to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the agency used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords that you believe is the most important skill, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for. When you respond with an essential skill needed in your profession, it shows the interviewer you have that skill.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the agency seeks an honest tax revenue officer with solid communication, investigative, and analytical skills. In that case, describe the most important skill needed as a tax revenue officer: honesty, communication, investigative, or analytical skills. Focus on using a keyword in the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Most job descriptions use several keywords to describe the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate. The interviewer wants to hear that the skill you choose will benefit the agency if they hire you. Avoid using a skill that is not in the job announcement or that is not related to the job of a tax revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe a tax revenue officer's essential skill is strong communication. This skill is needed to communicate effectively with taxpayers, colleagues, and supervisors verbally and in written form."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
16. Why do you want to be a tax collector?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivated and inspired you to pursue this career. They want to hear if you grew up wanting to do this type of work or if you started down a different career path and decided to change careers.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to gain insight into your background and the motivating factor in pursuing a career as a tax revenue officer. Give a brief story on why you chose to dedicate yourself to this field. Focus your answer on describing your reason for choosing this career path.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you want to be a tax collector for reasons that may seem unprofessional to the interviewer. For example, you do not want to say that someone mistreated you, and now you want to take out your aggression on others, or you want to target a particular party you disagree with.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I want to be a tax collector because I feel we are necessary for a society to function. The taxes we collect helps communities grow, build, and change. I want to be a part of helping communities grow and enriching the lives of others."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
17. What do you like most about working as a tax revenue officer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see what aspect of the job you enjoy the most. When you respond, the interviewer can gain insight into what drives and motivates you in your profession and determine if your passion aligns with the company's mission and culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on showing the interviewer you genuinely care about helping the community or working with like-minded individuals. You might enjoy working with families to make a difference in their financial situation or using your critical thinking skills and finding solutions to a problem. Whatever you enjoy the most, the interviewer wants to hear!
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying what you like the most is the salary or benefits package. If the interviewer doesn't feel that your heart is in the job and you are only concerned about money, they will look for a candidate in the profession for the right reasons.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"What I like most about working as a revenue officer is being able to help taxpayers come to a workable arrangement to help them pay their taxes. I have worked with many people who were overwhelmed with paying their taxes. After working with them, you could see the relief on their faces when I was able to set up a payment plan to pay their taxes in a manageable way without hurting their monthly finances."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
18. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have read the job description in its entirety and to determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most tax revenue officer job descriptions have many duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewer wants to know what you like the most to see where your strengths lie.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on what you like most about the job and provide your reason. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for training all new employees and providing regular continuing education training. Tell the interviewer why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid being unprepared to answer this question. If the interviewer feels that you did not read the job description, they will question your attention to detail and enthusiasm for this position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. I most enjoy being in charge of training new employees and conducting continuing education training. I have taught new tax revenue officers for the past five years and love sharing my knowledge and experience with others."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
19. What made you decide to apply for a career as a tax collector?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivated and inspired you to pursue this career. They want to hear if you were mentored by a revenue officer, have family or friends who work in this industry, have worked in a similar field, or were told about this career by a guidance counselor or professor.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to gain insight into your background and the motivating factor in pursuing a career as a tax revenue officer. Give a brief story about why you chose to dedicate yourself to this field. Focus on your reason for choosing this career path.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying that you are pursuing a career as a revenue officer to have power over others. You should be in this profession to help taxpayers pay their taxes and set up payment plans that will not ruin them financially. If you do not appear compassionate and helpful, the interviewer will choose another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I decided to pursue a career as a tax collector because my parents both work in this field. I grew up hearing stories about how they helped people who were delinquent with their taxes by assisting them with payment plans. My parents both love the work they do, and they suggested I look into pursuing the same field since I have compassion and empathy for others."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Discovery
20. What are the top three skills needed to be an excellent tax revenue officer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have the qualities they are looking for in a tax revenue officer. The interviewer asks this question to see what you believe are the top three skills needed in your profession. When you respond, the interviewer will determine that you have those skills since you believe they are essential to your job.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and use three of the skills listed in the job description. When you describe three skills from the job description, the interviewer will see that you have the qualities they are looking for. Be sure to explain why these skills are essential to your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Companies are typically very specific in their job description of what they seek in a candidate, and you want to show the interviewer you have the skills they need. Avoid using skills not mentioned in the job description as your top three skills. If you describe other skills that the company is not looking for, they may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"After working as a revenue officer for ten years, I believe the top three skills one needs to be an excellent officer are communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Written and verbal communication is essential when writing reports, documenting interviews, and investigating taxpayers. Excellent tax revenue officers are analytical thinkers and able to dissect complex problems, extract data, and problem solve."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Education
21. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to perform your job as a tax revenue officer. They want to know if you have a degree, certificates, or other specialized training that qualifies you to work in this field.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on your education as it relates to the position. You do not need to start with your high school diploma or GED. Start with post-secondary training and beyond. If you do not have post-secondary training and the position calls for only a high school diploma or GED, then mention that you are qualified for the position and have your diploma or GED. However, most tax revenue officer jobs require a minimum of a bachelor's degree to apply for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Suppose the job announcement says the agency is looking for a tax revenue officer with a bachelor's degree in any subject. In that case, you want to have a bachelor's degree before applying to the position. Avoid not having the education required for the job. If you do not meet the agency's requirements, you will be disqualified as a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my bachelor's degree in criminal justice eight years ago from Missouri Western State University. I then became a Certified Fraud Investigator through the International Association of Special Investigations Units. I have agreed to a code of ethics and passed their exam. I have maintained my certification by completing the necessary continuing education units and am in good standing as an investigator. I am now switching careers and feel that my investigative background will benefit me as a tax revenue officer."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Experience
22. What is your experience working as a tax collector?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement should say how many years of experience the company requires. The interviewer wants to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position. Tell the interviewer how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on the number of years of experience you have and with what agency. If you do not have prior experience working as a tax revenue officer, explain to the interviewer that you are new to the field and excited about the training their agency will provide.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
You should always have the minimum qualifications needed before applying for a job. If the job announcement says the company requires a minimum number of years of experience, avoid saying you have more experience than you do. The interviewer will contact references and find out if you were dishonest in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked for three years as a revenue program officer with the Commonwealth of Kentucky. My job duties were to educate and bring into compliance the community and business owners, negotiate payment plans for due taxes, review tax returns, and ensure the confidentiality of taxpayer's information."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Experience
23. Have you ever testified in court? If so, how was your experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Testifying at court proceedings can be one of the job duties of a tax revenue officer, and the interviewer wants to hear about your experience. The interviewer asks this question to see if you have testified in court and how comfortable you were doing so. If you have never testified in court, be honest and say that you have not. Then, describe how you feel you will do well since you are comfortable speaking in public and have excellent communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have testified in court, tell the interviewer approximately how many times and describe your comfort level in doing so. It is normal to be nervous when testifying in court, but most revenue officers become more confident and less anxious over time.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you have never testified in court, avoid saying that you have. The interviewer will find out when contacting your references, and you never want to be dishonest in an interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a new tax revenue officer, I have never testified in court. However, I feel confident in my investigative skills and do not have an issue speaking in public. I have excellent communication and documentation skills, and I feel those skills will help me when testifying in court for the first time."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
General
24. What is your greatest weakness?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a tax revenue officer to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, if you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid describing a weakness that is a crucial responsibility as a revenue officer or one that is not work-related. The interviewer wants to hear what weakness in your profession you have identified and how you plan to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness as a tax revenue officer is my lack of experience reading body language. I understand some clues but would like to learn more. I have enrolled in an online body language course taught by a retired FBI profiler and have purchased books on reading body language. In the two weeks I have been studying, I have already learned valuable information to use in my investigations. I believe after taking the course and finishing the books, this weakness will turn into a strength."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
General
25. What is your greatest strength?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the agency used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords to describe your greatest strength, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the agency seeks an experienced tax revenue officer with solid communication and interpersonal skills. In that case, highlight your experience or your communication or interpersonal skills. Focus on using a keyword in the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Most job descriptions use several keywords to describe the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate. Avoid using a strength that is not in the job announcement or that is not related to the job of a tax revenue officer. The interviewer wants to hear that your strength is a quality they seek in a candidate and that you will benefit the agency if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength as a revenue officer is my communication skills. I can take complex data and taxpayer laws and explain them to taxpayers so they understand. I also have excellent written communication and documentation skills. I took a communications course in college, which helped me develop and strengthen my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Operational
26. Would you ever unfairly target a political group?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you are politically motivated and would mistreat others in your position. Assure the interviewer that you would not target any group and treat everyone equally and fairly.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being emphatic but professional when responding. You want the interviewer to understand that you treat everyone with dignity and respect. Make it crystal clear that you are not the type of person to treat anyone unfairly or target a group because of their political beliefs.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you would unfairly target a political group or anyone whose beliefs you disagree with. If the interviewer thinks you will be a liability to the agency, they will pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Of course not! I would never unfairly target anyone. I do not let my political or religious beliefs interfere with my job, and I treat everyone with dignity and respect."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Operational
27. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many agencies look for tax revenue officers who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers and supervisors, agencies want revenue officers who can conduct independent research of tax returns and interview and investigate taxpayers. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Explain that you work well independently and with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you require close supervision. The interviewer wants a tax revenue officer who is comfortable working alone but knows when to ask a supervisor for assistance with an investigation or a case.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working independently. I have worked as a revenue officer for five years and have always worked alone, except when I need to collaborate with colleagues or other agencies. I work well in a team environment as well as independently. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills as a revenue officer. If I have a question or require assistance from my supervisor, I do not hesitate to ask them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Operational
28. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a tax revenue officer, you must be detail-oriented. You will be responsible for conducting interviews, writing reports, analyzing tax returns, and performing complex investigations. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to see that you will be an excellent addition to their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have a letter of recommendation or performance review from a previous employer that describes your attention to detail, let the interviewer know when responding to this question. When a former employer or supervisor comments on your attention to detail, it carries more weight than when you describe yourself. If you do not have a letter or performance review, give an example of why you consider yourself a detail-oriented person.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
To be considered for the position, avoid saying that you are not detail-oriented. The interviewer does not want to hire a tax revenue officer who may miss the smallest details or whose work may need correcting. If minor details are missed, it could cost the agency money and its reputation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I would describe myself as detail-oriented. I pride myself on catching even the slightest of errors in reports and remembering the smallest details when interviewing taxpayers. My attention to detail has helped uncover accounting errors that even my colleagues had missed."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Operational
29. How can we motivate you on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways you are best motivated on the job. The interviewer wants to see what motivates you and if you will be a good fit with the company culture if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
There is no right or wrong answer. Tell the interviewer what drives you to do a good job and show up to work every day. You might be motivated by praise from your superiors, being recognized for a job well done, or being offered promotions or extra job duties based on your performance.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you are motivated by your paycheck or the number of vacation days you will receive. The interviewer wants to hear how the company can encourage you in your job as a tax revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I like to know that my efforts are noticed. We have a leader board in my current position, and I like that concept because it creates healthy competition."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Operational
30. How well do you work under pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a revenue officer. you must work well under pressure. You will be working with taxpayers who will not always be receptive to your inquiries and conducting investigations that can be stressful. You will experience situations that add stress to the workday, and you must be able to manage your stress for a successful outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you work well under pressure and stay focused on your assignments.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on an example of working under pressure related to your role as a tax revenue officer. If you are new to this field, you can use an example from a previous job. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you can effectively work under pressure as a revenue officer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying you do not work well under pressure. Tax revenue officers need to be calm and focused on their assignments when faced with stressful situations.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I work very well under pressure. I have not worked as a tax revenue officer before, but I was in the military for four years. I was exposed to large amounts of stressful situations while serving in Afghanistan. When faced with a stressful situation, I let my training take over. I always identify the threat and take appropriate action based on the case. I find that remaining focused on the task at hand keeps my emotions from taking over, which allows me to stay calm while working in stressful environments."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2022