Journal
A Journal is a basic but important record-keeping tool in bookkeeping and accounting. Think of it like a diary for money - it's where bookkeepers record all financial transactions of a business in order, showing what money came in and what went out. This could include things like sales, purchases, bills paid, or money received. It's usually the first place transactions are recorded before they're organized into other financial records. You might also see it called a "daybook" or "book of original entry." Modern businesses often use accounting software that creates digital journals, but understanding journal entries is still a core skill for bookkeepers.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained daily Journal entries for a retail business with over 100 transactions per day
Reviewed and corrected Journal entries to ensure accuracy in financial statements
Created and managed digital Journal records using QuickBooks
Trained junior staff in proper Journal entry procedures
Typical job title: "Bookkeepers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Bookkeepers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex journal entries involving multiple accounts?
Expected Answer: A senior bookkeeper should explain the process of creating balanced entries across multiple accounts, mention the importance of documentation, and discuss review procedures to ensure accuracy.
Q: How do you ensure journal entries comply with accounting standards?
Expected Answer: Should discuss knowledge of basic accounting principles, mention internal controls, and explain how they verify entries match supporting documents and follow company policies.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take to correct an error in a journal entry?
Expected Answer: Should explain the proper procedure for making adjusting entries, importance of maintaining an audit trail, and documentation requirements.
Q: How do you handle recurring journal entries?
Expected Answer: Should discuss setting up templates for regular transactions, mention scheduling features in accounting software, and explain verification procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a journal entry?
Expected Answer: Should mention date, description, account names, debit and credit amounts, and explain that debits must equal credits.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in your journal entries?
Expected Answer: Should discuss double-checking numbers, keeping supporting documents, and reviewing entries before posting.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic journal entry creation
- Understanding of debits and credits
- Use of accounting software
- Filing and organization of supporting documents
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex journal entries
- Error correction procedures
- Month-end closing processes
- Training junior staff
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced accounting principles
- Internal control implementation
- Financial statement preparation
- Process improvement
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic debit and credit concepts
- No experience with accounting software
- Poor attention to detail
- Lack of understanding about supporting documentation
- No knowledge of basic accounting principles
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
From Farewells to Future Allies: Transforming Exit Interviews into Lifelong Connections
From Ghost Town to Talent Hub: Transforming Your Careers Blog into a Talent Magnet
Micro-Internships: The Game-Changer in Project-Based Learning
