subject: Succeeding At The Big 4 Accounting Interview [print this page] Getting a job at the Big 4 i.eGetting a job at the Big 4 i.e. PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, Deloitte and KPMG is the dream of many. But, with the cut-throat competition arising out of many qualified accounting candidates and few positions, it may look like a distant dream at times. The main hurdle to face here is the interview for which a candidate must be aware of not just the companys working but should also sharpen up and highlight his/her skills that will be indispensable for the company. Hiring for auditors has become very difficult in the wake of the volatile market conditions and despite the burgeoning need for highly qualified candidates, such companies have now adopted a tougher method of screening.
So does that mean that you can start pulling out your hair while thinking of your dismal chances? The answer is no! What you should adopt here is the strategy of If you have got it, flaunt it. Just make sure you are flaunting the right attitude and skills that are required by the organization and you can surely ace the interview. The things that you need to flaunt are:
Get The Basics Right
Education is the foundation of your career and to qualify for the CPA exam, you need at least 150 semester units. Having a backing of an accounting course will be better as well. Throw in some financial courses and you are all set towards creating a profile that the Big 4 companies require. Also, ensure that your GPA score is high.
Versatility
Such companies dont require someone with a tunnel vision i.e. expertise in only one area. It goes without saying that these companies prefer candidates who have worked in diverse areas and also have a diversified social life.
Expertise In Communication
Accounting has ceased to be a desk job thats all about number crunching. To be a valuable employee, you need to coordinate with various departments. At the interview, you can talk on an industry topic that you are very familiar with. You can also talk normally to show your social side and let the interviewers open about themselves as well.
Show That You Are The Leader
Last but not the least, for further growth in any organization, you need to be a leader. In the interview, you can talk about your leadership skills corroborated with incidents where these were useful in solving a problem. You should also be comfortable to work in a team that may be multi-cultural.
Considering these from the start of your career will have a big impact on your over all job profile. So to get hired by the Big 4 companies in UK; just have a solid plan and inculcate all the desirable qualities.
