Congrats on getting a job interview with one of the Big 4! If you’ve managed to obtain an interview, you’ve already beaten most of the odds. KPMG, Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCooper, Ernst & Young are very prestigious companies that only invite the best candidates to join their ranks. Here are six tips on how to best prepare for the interview.
1. Do extensive research
First, you should do extensive research on the company’s history and try to find information about the office location you’d be working in. Did that office branch recently close a large business deal? Or receive any notable industry recognition or awards? Find out as much as you can about the office’s culture and current client list. You should also research more information about the specific job you are interviewing for and what the job entails.
2. Prepare sample answers for the five different types of interview questions
There are five types of interview questions: technical, case studies, brain teasers, behavioral and traditional. Look up examples of each one and think about how you would answer them. Although it’ll be hard to memorize certain questions word for word, come up with an overall strategy for how you will answer each type of question. For example, you can prepare for technical questions by reviewing information about the latest news and developments in the accounting industry. You can also brainstorm some example scenarios that would work for multiple types of interview questions. This will help you be prepared despite not knowing what types of specific questions they will ask. You should also ask your recruiter if they can share additional information and insight about how you can best prepare for the interview.
3. Read different accounting related websites, blogs and forums
Next, visit different websites, blogs and forums that focus on helping people get through the interview process at the Big 4 accounting firms. Review their content and ask questions to get insight. One website you should visit is Glassdoor. You can learn more about the company’s culture and read overall reviews by current and past employees on Glassdoor. Previous job candidates may also share the interview questions they had to answer.
4. Sign up for mock interviews
Another tip is to sign up for mock interviews to get as much practice as possible before the big day. Ask your university or local employment center if they have any mock interviews. interview it can help you focus. Do you know people who currently work in the financial industry? Ask if they can help you with a mock interview. Practicing will help you feel more confident and comfortable during the real interview. The person interviewing you can also provide feedback on your overall performance and give advice on how you can improve.
5. Dress the part
The clothes you wear to the interview are important since they can help you appear more professional and demonstrate your attention to detail. A clean, well put together outfit can help you make a great impression before you say a word. Buy a new suit or dress for the occasion if you can afford it.
6. Prepare a list of questions for the interviewer
Lastly, you should prepare a list of questions beforehand that you want to ask the interviewer. This is your chance to really shine and make a last good impression before you leave. Ask insightful and relevant questions about the company and job opening. If you aren’t sure what to ask, just take notes during the interview whenever something isn’t clear or you want to know more information. You can also ask the interviewer personal questions about what they enjoy most about their job.
If you are are looking for the next challenge in your accountancy career, contact one of our team of Accounting & Finance consultants for a confidential discussion on +3531 661 0444 or see a full list of our opportunities here.
