The Accounts Assistant role at Winkworth is a pivotal position within the finance team, responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and assisting with day-to-day financial operations. Winkworth, one of the UK’s leading estate agency networks, values precision, discretion, and efficiency in its finance personnel. Typically, the salary for a Winkworth Accounts Assistant ranges from £23,000 to £28,000 per annum, depending on experience and location, with potential for growth into senior finance roles.
This position is ideal for individuals looking to build a long-term career in real estate finance and accounting. Whether you’re starting out or moving up, preparing for the interview with precision is essential.
Top 20 Winkworth Accounts Assistant Interview Questions and Model Answers
1. Tell me about yourself.
I’m a detail-oriented individual with a strong background in accounting and finance. I’ve worked in roles that required data entry, reconciliations, and financial reporting. I’m currently looking to grow my career with a company like Winkworth, where I can contribute to a dynamic finance team and continue developing professionally.
2. What attracted you to this role at Winkworth?
Winkworth has a strong reputation in the property sector, and I admire how the company maintains professional integrity and customer service. The Accounts Assistant role matches my skill set and career goals perfectly, especially in terms of supporting financial processes in a fast-paced environment.
3. What accounting software are you familiar with?
I’ve worked with Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero. I’m also proficient in Excel, including pivot tables and VLOOKUPs, which I often use for reconciliations and data analysis.
4. How do you handle tight deadlines?
I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, stay organized with digital tools like calendars and to-do lists, and communicate early if timelines might be impacted. I thrive under pressure and always ensure accuracy, even when deadlines are tight.
5. Describe a time you found an error in a financial report.
While reconciling a supplier account, I noticed a duplicated invoice that had been processed for payment. I flagged it immediately, confirmed with the supplier, and corrected the ledger entry, saving the company over £1,000.
6. What steps do you take when reconciling a bank statement?
I compare the internal ledger with the bank statement, identify any discrepancies, check for unrecorded items like bank charges or direct debits, and ensure all transactions are accounted for. I then investigate any differences and make the necessary adjustments.
7. How do you manage confidentiality in your work?
I understand the importance of data protection in financial roles. I follow company protocols, avoid discussing sensitive information outside of work, and ensure files are securely stored, both digitally and physically.
8. How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple deadlines?
I assess each task’s deadline and impact on overall financial operations. High-value or time-sensitive tasks are handled first. I also communicate regularly with my team to coordinate and avoid duplication of efforts.
9. What do you know about Winkworth’s business model?
Winkworth operates as a franchised estate agency, providing property sales, lettings, and management services. Each office is independently operated, but the brand maintains consistency and support through central services like marketing and finance.
10. How would you handle an invoice dispute with a supplier?
I would first verify the invoice details against our purchase records. If discrepancies exist, I’d contact the supplier with clear documentation. I aim to resolve disputes professionally and quickly to maintain good supplier relationships.
11. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.
At my last job, we prepared for an external audit as a team. I was responsible for bank reconciliations and helped review purchase ledgers. We divided responsibilities, communicated daily, and passed the audit with no major findings.
12. What are prepayments and accruals?
Prepayments are expenses paid in advance, like annual insurance, which are spread over their useful period. Accruals are expenses incurred but not yet invoiced or paid, like utilities. Both ensure that financial statements reflect the correct accounting period.
13. How do you stay accurate when working with numbers all day?
I double-check my work, use formulas in spreadsheets to reduce human error, and cross-reference reports regularly. I also take short breaks to keep my mind fresh during intense tasks.
14. How would you support the month-end closing process?
I’d ensure all invoices and bank transactions are entered, assist in reconciliations, prepare reports as needed, and support the finance manager in compiling data for financial statements.
15. What challenges do you expect in this role?
Managing multiple priorities and tight deadlines can be challenging, especially during month-end. But I see these as opportunities to develop efficiency and improve my time management.
16. Why should we hire you over other candidates?
I bring a strong foundation in accounting, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to solving problems. My experience, combined with a strong desire to contribute to Winkworth’s finance team, makes me a reliable fit.
17. How do you deal with repetitive tasks?
I focus on accuracy and understand that even routine tasks are critical to financial integrity. I also look for ways to streamline processes with templates or automation when appropriate.
18. What’s your experience with handling petty cash or expense claims?
I’ve processed expense reports, checked them against receipts and company policies, and reconciled petty cash monthly. I’m meticulous about documentation and ensure accurate entries into the accounting system.
19. Are you currently studying or planning to study AAT, ACCA, or another qualification?
Yes, I’m currently pursuing AAT Level 3. I believe continuous education enhances my ability to contribute meaningfully to any finance team.
20. Do you have any questions for us?
Yes, I’d love to know more about the structure of the finance team at Winkworth and any opportunities for progression or professional development within the company.
Final Thoughts: Interview Tips for Success
Preparing for your Winkworth Accounts Assistant interview doesn’t stop with memorizing questions. Here are a few final tips to boost your confidence and performance:
Research Winkworth thoroughly—understand their franchising model, values, and recent news.
Dress smart and arrive early, whether virtually or in person.
Bring examples of your work (e.g., spreadsheets, reports) if possible.
Show enthusiasm for both finance and the property sector.
Practice speaking clearly and concisely—your communication style matters just as much as your answers.
Remember: every interview is also a chance for you to evaluate whether the company aligns with your own career values and goals.
Conclusion
Landing a role as an Accounts Assistant at Winkworth can be a rewarding step into the world of real estate finance. By preparing thoughtful answers to the most relevant questions and showing enthusiasm for the role, you’ll position yourself as a standout candidate. Good luck—you’ve got this!
