PwC Interview Questions

does anyone know if you have to re-sit the verbal reasoning test at the assessment center or is it just the numerical and diagrammatic reasoning?

no you don't need to do the verbal again

Does anyone know who are the major clients in engineering and construction industry of PwC?

Does anyone have some good advice, other than "read papers and a variety of literature", for someone sitting a verbal critical reasoning test?

I tend to get through numerical tests fine but struggle massively with the verbal. I read every day, have an excellent vocabulary and spelling but I always seem to panic in the verbal tests. I find it hard to pick an answer and believe it is correct. This wastes a lot of time and makes me panic.

I have to sit some fairly straightforward SHL tests. Does anyone know if they negative mark? It's for an in-house test.

I know that I can understand the language in the texts and the statements but I still do very poorly in the tests. Any ideas?

Much appreciated.

Desperate to get better.

Hi Sunny
I know you posted ages ago but just on the off chance you still need practice on verbal tests, I find them easier based on how I prepared for the 11 plus exam. In WHSmiths and places you can buy practice papers made up of verbal and non-verbal reasoning tests for the secondary school entrance exams. They aren't exactly the same as the ones provided by SHL but I found they got my mind working in the right way.
Hope that helps a little

Should be noted that there is now a written test at the AC.

IIRC, it is 20 mins long and the purpose of the exercise is to test your ability to spell correctly, and communicate with structure, coherence and correct grammar. Straightforward, but somewhat time-pressured!

Can anyone who has been to the AC confirm that the Numerical and Diagrammatic tests are in fact much harder and "extremely challenging" compared to the online tests as it says above? Thanks

with the numerical, i would say the paper tests are not noticeably harder than the online version.

however, you are more time-pressured with the paper test because, unlike the online test, each question has its own diagram/ graph/ chart. so extra time is needed per question to analyse and understand the corresponding diagram.

with the diagrammatic, i didn't find that the questions became progressively harder. Throughout the 40 questions, I found the standard of difficulty to be relatively consistent, with easier and harder ones spread evenly throughout.

Thanks bingkk32, I appreciate the input.

hey guys pretty new to this. Have my 1st interview with PwC Belfast on Monday. Only iv got glandular fever...yipee..debating whether its wise to go to interview or not. feeling pretty crap but really want the internship. Can someone give me a bit of advice? how stressful is 1st interview becuz im getting really worried about it and i think its whats making me worse :( It only for an internship but really want the experience! All advice will be gratefully appreciated.

Adele I would try and make it to the interview if you can. I had glandular fever and I know you feel drained most of the time but I think it'll be worth the effort in the long run. It's not too stressful, just try to relax and make sure you do plenty of preparation beforehand. I have now had 3 interviews at PWC, 1 with an audit line manager, 1 with a HR manager and 1 with a partner. They were all competency based interviews and lasted about 45 minutes, there was then 15 minutes for my questions and further discussion. The interviewers will press you to expand your answers so make sure you save some information in reserve. The questions posted above are pretty comprehensive so I would draft some notes to answer each one. The core competencies they ask you to demonstrate on the recruitment website are flexibility, curiosity, teamworking, courage + integrity, commercial awareness and communication skills. Therefore try to think of how you can demonstrate each one through any of your life experiences, including education and employment. I had a very good recruiter who gave me a lot of information before the interviews and AC, she would ask me to demonstrate times when I shown passion for a particular client, how I had built and sustained professional relationships in the past, times when my leadership had been challenged and what I had done to overcome that. Make sure you also research on the company you mentioned on the application, if that question is still there, as the questions will probe into your application answers!

Good luck and I hope you get through to the next stage!

Hi, some help would be appreciated for the first interview, what sort of questions came up regarding the client you recommended in the submitted application form?

Hey,

It was quite a while ago that I had my interview (October) but from memory the questions about the client were not a huge focus during the interview. I think I had to answer "how do you think [insert client] have coped during the recent economic conditions?" and "If you were the CEO of [insert client] what would you do (to ensure the company remains strong)?". The questions and answer on these lasted maybe 3-5 minutes maximum. The CEO question put me on the spot a bit as I chose a bank and felt like saying I would take my rediculous salary/bonus and move to the Seychelles. But I tried to think of it logically as in how the costs could be reduced and the revenue increased, also remember that you could use the advice of your colleagues. This demonstrates some basic business acumen, commercial awareness and teamworking etc. The main focus of the interview for me was around commercial awareness with a question about a recent event in the news, teamworking with a question asking for examples when I have worked within a group demonstrating leadership qualities and commitment to professional services/PwC with question asking me how much I knew about any qualifications I would be taking, the firm, it's clients, it's areas of business and what each one did. I would say the client question was lumped into the commercial awareness category.

Good Luck!

hi all, just wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the many contributors to these pages which have been indispensible in my application to PwC and I have successfully managed to secure a place on the graduate trainee intake for assurance. If anyone has any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

Nipzy - Thanks for your input. I see you applied for aduit, but how comes you had 3 interviews? I thought there are only 2: manager and thereafter partner.

I wasn't successful at the first interview I had in Embankment Place as I didn't prepare very well which really showed. So I gave it six months, I was in no rush because I was already working at Lloyds TSB and applied again. This time I really put the effort in when it came to researching the company, the role and the qualification.

So you are right there are only 2 interviews, the first interview is the one you really want to impress at as that is where most people get turned down. The structure for the application process was a little different second time around as I applied to an office a bit closer to home. This time I went straight to AC which contained an interview with one of the HR managers. Good luck!

^^On a side note congrats Don.

hey nipzy...thanks & u...which office did u apply for and when do you start....i think the process is pretty standard...apart form the partner interview...mine was just a chat with me asking questions

Hi guys, I've got a first round interview next week and am slightly confused by what PwC's website says and what Wikijob tells me regarding the main service lines that PwC offer.

I believe that they have sold their consulting arm to IBM, so technically speaking is that classed as advisory? But then why would they list 'Consulting' as one of their services on the PwC website? Also, the Internal Firm Services (IFS), what exactly does that involve?

As I understand, the main service lines are:
- Assurance (audit)
- Tax
- Advisory/Consulting
- Internal Firm Services (the rest?)

All clarifications would be greatly appreciated, thanks!!!!

The student recruitment website below will tell you all you need to know about PwC to get through the interviews, it shows the 6 business areas and what each one covers. I made a word document before my interviews with the key info, in my AC evaluation I was told the interviewer thought that I had a good knowledge of the business. Just remember to do research on any company you've mentioned and also latest business news for commercial awareness.

http://www.pwc.com/uk/en/careers/student/about-pwc.jhtml

Some other useful websites:
http://www.accountancyage.com/
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/default.stm
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Business
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business
http://www.icaew.com/

Thanks Nipzy!! Yeh I wasn't sure whether to name the ones suggested by the wikijob page or the 6 listed on the website, but you've definitely cleared that up now. And cheers for all those links, you're a great help!

I really hope you managed to secure a job in the end!

Hi guys/girls,

I just underwent an assessment centre with PwC for advisory, I recieved the job offer today. Seeing as this site was helpful to me I thought I'd return the favour and answer any questions or post any hints anyone needs to help them with the recruitment process.

J.

Hey all,

I have a PwC assessment centre on friday for Audit. I just want to know what type of commercial questions can be asked on that day. there is just so much information to know. I just want to be able to narrow it down. If anyone can give an example/examples it will be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Hey Margue

Firstly congrats for getting through to the AC. I don't know if you have had an interview previously or not, each office is slightly different but the questions on commercial awareness are likely to be similar to any interview you have had previously with PwC. They will be based on current news items e.g. name an example of a current news story which interests you. Obviously make it business related, maybe about barclays profits or something more original on a topic that genuinely interests you. PwC are really keen on green issues/accounting lately. From my experience it would not be based on anything that you haven't mentioned during the interview or on your application, so don't worry too much about being a walking news encyclopedia.

thank you very much for that. I truly appreciate the time you put into answering my question. when it comes to two companies currently in the news can I talk about the increase in thortons profits over the last 6 months compared to 2008 and also the takeover of cardbury by kraft?

That sounds fine Margue. They will likely probe your answer, leave enough information out so that it makes it easier for yourself to expand to further questioning.

Likely questions to Thorntons would be; Why do you think the profits have increased? What would you do differently if you were in charge? How do you think PwC could help the company? How do you think the economic climate has effected the industry?

Cadbury-Kraft questions. What sort of impact do you think the merger will have? If you were CEO would undertake a similar business plan or what would you do differently? How could PwC assist in the merger, what services could the business offer?

From my experience the questions will probe deeply into the topics to see the depth of your knowledge, the interviewers will try to press you until you struggle to come up with an answer. Don't panic they are just testing your composure under pressure. Remember the interviewer may not know much about the topic you pick, the questions are normally quite standard and open for each interview rather than testing you on a specific area. Just make sure you know plenty about PwC, any qualification you will undertaking and lots of team working/leadership/self discipline examples.

I have a first round interview with PwC in a couple of weeks, I would like advice with regards to commercial awareness questions ( what sort of specific questions could they ask? I chose RBS as my client btw). Also how detailed the answers to the competency questions have to be? Finally do I have to use the 'STAR (situation, task, action and result)' method to answer them. Thank very much in advance and any help would be greatly appreciated

I have a first round interview with PwC in a couple of weeks, I would like advice with regards to commercial awareness questions ( what sort of specific questions could they ask? I chose RBS as my client btw). Also how detailed the answers to the competency questions have to be? Finally do I have to use the 'STAR (situation, task, action and result)' method to answer them. Thank very much in advance and any help would be greatly appreciated :)

I have a first round interview with PwC in a couple of weeks, I would like advice with regards to commercial awareness questions ( what sort of specific questions could they ask? I chose RBS as my client btw). Also how detailed the answers to the competency questions have to be? Finally do I have to use the 'STAR (situation, task, action and result)' method to answer them. Thank very much in advance and any help would be greatly appreciated :)

Hi, I also have a first round interview for assurance approaching. Is it mainly competancy based? I hear it is heavily focused on the 'ideal client' question on the application form. I would appreciate any feedback and tips from people who have had their 1st round interviews. Thanks

Hi, thank you for all the contributors. There is a lot of information here!

I am invited to AC in embankment in Management Consulting. As Nipzy said, different offices have slightly different style and I guess different function focus on different questions too.

If anybody has MC AC in embankment, could you please share your experience on what I should focus on? I do not know much about financial industry&accounting/auditing. I guess this should not be a problem?

Based on what I read, there is basically no distinction between the type of questions they ask in the first interview or the AC. Is this true?

Is the AC in embankment the final round? It was written "basic assessment" in my pages.

How difficult is the case study?
Any help given is highly appreciated. Thank you so much!

Hey skyjuice,

Knowledge of financial industry etc is very important in partner interview, they are looking for you to have an interest in what they do, think of topical good questions that relate not only to your chosen service line bt the comp as a whole.

AC interview was more relaxed though, however i think i was successful because of the questions i asked and the knowledge and understanding i had. Also i did fairly well in maths and logical test.

For the case study its common sense!! Read the info and keep a budget. Also expect to need to change it bt take ur time and its easy enough!

However that said I'm in gen assurance so MC could be different.

Anyway good luck!

thanks ft123!

Someone higher up the thread commented that the AC now has a written component? Can anyone verify this and give some more details?

I can confirm that there is a written exercise. I believe the main purpose is to check the ledgibility of your handwriting, grammar and spelling whilst under a timed pressure situation. The question I had asked you to make a logical choice as to which services would benefit a particular company and then to justify your answer. It's a pretty straight forward exercise very similar to ones I had received at other AC's.

The partner interview is much harder than the first interview.Your commercial awareness has to be tip top, the partner interview was the only reason I didn't pass the assessment centre. make sure you know your stuff!! Even though I thought I knew a lot, I got absolutely grilled, but saying that it also depends on the partner who interviews you; some of them might just want to see what sort of person you are, if that's the case it shouldn't be that bad :)

Hi,

I'm applying for a graduate role in PwC AIMS (Actuarial) this September. I've passed my assessment day and I'm scheduled to have my partner interview next week. I wonder if anyone have any idea about what they will be asking in my interview?
(My first interview was mainly competency based,and they didnt ask me why I applied to PwC) ...

thanks!!!

Dear all, I just had my first phone interview this morning. I don't think that i did well. The HR guy told me that I have to wait 5 days for the outcome. Could anyone here that has passed the first round interview please tell me how soon did you get the outcome from them? This information will help me to decide how long I should wait before I give up on the application. Any answer will be greatly appreciated! :)

Don't worry too much about the time it takes, you will definately hear back within 5 working days as to the outcome of your interview. PwC seem to be very good at sticking to their word when it comes to the application process. Good luck!

have u heard anything? i think mine came 3 days after. but the second stage is not anytime soon.

nipzy: is the stage after the phone interview the final stage? Because it is written as "basic assessment" in my account. also, i email PwC to mention some errors (minor ones like dates or i have reduced my grade in my initial application) but I didn't hear anything from them?

I never had a phone interview, everything was conducted at the offices, so I wouldn't know on that one skyjuice. You could give the recruitment team a call on 0808 100 1500 to check to see if they have received your email and that everything is ok.

Hey Monopoly,

I recently had a phone interview too and I thought it had one terribly. I gave up on my application as soon as I put the phone down. But somehow I seem to have got through, they phoned me back the very next day and I have the AC to look forward to now! They definitely seem efficient in getting back to people!

Has anyone applied to PwC legal? Do you know how the questions at the AC may differ for a position within their legal firm?

Hi Monica, congrats on getting through. I called the graduate recruitment today, and they told me that they are still reviewing the applicants. I supposed I'll just wait, as I can't do much. Thanks for answering my query though, and good luck!

I feel for u. I've been through that before. It is so hard to know how much depth we have to prepare. It also hurts so much to have come so close.

Hi Monopoly,
Wish you luck for the result. Could you share the phone interview's questions with us? Cause I will take the phone interview for Business Placement next week.
Thank you!

Has anyone applied to the HeadStart Programme? Is the telephone interview different from the interview of other programmes? Can anyone give some advice pls........pls......pls.....

Lina

Pls HELP HELP HELP HELP

Dear Guys,

Could you please say something about telephone interview?
I know many of you are talking about AC. But can someone just summarise what sort of questions are most likely to be asked during the telephone interview? (I thought 'ideal client' question only exist in AC).

Thank you!!!!!

Pls HELP HELP HELP HELP

I applied for MC. My phone interview lasted 30 min. Questions included:
a) What do I understand about MC? - I essentially repeated what's on their website.
b) How does PwC build client relationship? - Producing high quality work, and keeping clients informed with the progress of projects
b) Example of working in a team?
c) Example of demonstrating organisational skills?
d) Example of building working relationship with someone?
e) A recent business news, and how PwC can help the company in dealing with its issues? - The interviewer said that I can use the example from my application form, but I used the Kraft-Cadbury example.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Hi everyone

I have an AC with PwC on Wednesday for an Assurance Summer Project and I am a bit worried! I did a languages degree and I'm in my first year of the Teach First programme so I'm a bit clueless about what's happening in business at the moment, can anyone suggest anything for me to read up on? It's where to start that I'm finding particularly difficult!

Also, as this is a summer project specifically for Teach First people, do you think they would ask me more about teaching and my role as apposed to team things?

Nervous now! Any help would be so greatly appreciated! Thanks x

Good luck for Wednesday Mesdames. I'm not too sure what the focus of your interview will be but the following websites will have you upto date on current business affairs, just make sure you know a couple of stories in details in case they ask you the question "Are there any current business related news articles which interest you?". Good examples at the moment could be the impact of the BP oil spill and the concern over a "double dip" recession.

Useful websites: http://www.accountancyage.com/ http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/ http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/default.stm http://news.sky.com/skynews/Business http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/ http://www.guardian.co.uk/business http://www.icaew.co.uk

Hi everyone,

Do you need to provide 2 examples for each competency? I'm not sure how many graduates would have that much experience to draw from. Also, could anyone provide any details as to what the written exercise is and how to best prepare for it?

Thank you

I'm going to apply for the 2011 April intake next month- does anyone know how long the overall process takes? Do they try to get everyone through it quite quickly?

Thanks!

Hi Everyone! I am applying for the Actuarial Programme at PWC. I am a bit confused as to how to answer the application question on the application form.

For the services provided to the client part, do they expect us to have to have detailed knowledge about the service and it can be applied? Or can we just mention one from the website and talk about it generally and briefly?

Any help would be very appreciated. Thanks

Ali

hello

Hello Everyone

 I have applied for pwc,dubai  graduate openings in assuaranceI have been following this link and comments which people have posted have really helped me

can anyone comment on this,as i am in doubt why this test has been given again after my first interview instead i was expecting invite for assessment centre.

waiting for your replies

thanks

hello

Hello Everyone

 I have applied for pwc,dubai  graduate openings in assuaranceI have been following this link and comments which people have posted have really helped me

can anyone comment on this,as i am in doubt why this test has been given again after my first interview instead i was expecting invite for assessment centre.

waiting for your replies

thanks

Hello Everyone

 I have applied for pwc,dubai  graduate openings in assuaranceI have been following this link and comments which people have posted have really helped me

can anyone comment on this,as i am in doubt why this test has been given again after my first interview instead i was expecting invite for assessment centre.

waiting for your comments

Thanks!!

Eterno, you have to complete the tests in the assessment centre stage as well. Its to make sure you didn't get any help doing them online as far as I can see.

Hi all, I have an interview coming up imminently for the assurance graduate scheme and I was wondering if anyone has had a recent interview for this position and what questions were asked. I am not concerned about the questions regarding my application and reasons for wanting to work for PWC because I have a thorough understanding of auditing, but I am perturbed about the competency questions and what this may involve.
Any assistance would be exceptionally helpful. Could you please list the questions that were asked if feasible. Thankyou.

Hi anyone know the questions in the PwC interview. It would be a great help.

Hi guys,

I have a final AC comming up on Friday 29th Oct. I applied last year and was unsuccesful at this stage as I performed poorly in the group exercise, other than that I was told I was an exceptional candidate. Has anyone been for the AC this year? If yes is the group exercise still based on that enviroment friendly issue? Can someone please give me some tips as in how to go about this task?

I would really appreciate. Thanks in advance.

Hi Mudd2487,

I too have an AC on Friday! I think the group exercise always changes so I'm sure it'll be a new topic, however the principles are the same in terms of being an effective communicator and working together to come to a conclusion.

Could anyone shed some light on the written exercise we have to complete? Is it hard?

Any feedback will be much appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

hey mudd

 i hav an assement day on monday (1/11)....i was wondering if you could tell me wat topic you had last time in your group exercise...

hey gurn,

i hav heard that the written exercise has basically three manufacturing companies and you are part of a company that wants to outsource manufacturing. So you have to choose one of the three and give reasoning for that...

Hope it helps.

Let me know if you get to know from anywhere wat the group exercise will be about. And yes, it would be beneficial if you know how to write a report (as in format).

I had an assessment day in September and the group exercise was about an eco-hotel- so the standard one they have been using so far.

I found a post somewhere on wikijob that describes it very well, I'm sure you can find it too

The HR lady at the AD told us that they will be changing the format soon so don't rely too much on what's on past forums in case your AD will have the new format

They'll tell you what to expect, and do your research on the pwc website

Good luck!

Thanks for the feedback guys - really appreciate it!

Good luck Ppats!

My group exercise was on eco-hotel too, but I had to do it individually as there was only two of us at the AD. I mainly just paniced because I didnt expect to do it on my own and messed up. I dont really remember much about it though.

I also heard they were changing the format September onwards.

Hey guys, just wanted to post to thank everyone for your help on wikijobs. Just accepted an offer from PwC after a lot of hard work. My advice to everyone is to really look into this site, it's a goldmine. I know it's not much to calm people, but everyone at PwC are incredibly lovely and supportive. The assessment centre is tough but with a bit (or a lot) of prep it's definately doable. I'd say for the interview, make sure you know a lot about what you'll be doing in the job and how you could go about it. For the group exercise it's all about how you interact rather than the conclusions you make. Make sure you're persuasive but listen, and build on other's ideas as well as providing your own. Something that hasn't really been mentioned is that they ask you to evaluate your performance after the group exercise. Be honest and give your strongest and weakest areas. The written exercise isn't too bad, just present a clear and structured argument :) hope this helps a bit!!

Thank you all of you who have posted about their experience of the AD. I've been made an offer 2!!

Has anyone received an email for Uxbridge Assessment Day?

can anyone give some further information regarding the eco-hotel written report?

Hi! to anyone who has recently participated in the A/C would really appreciate any suggestions on how to prepare for the written exercise and what the team work exercise topic consists of. thanks

The eco hotel was my case study for the discussion. As I was only 1 doing the centre that day, the discussion was with a HR employee from PWC. Its about a eco hotel/hostel in Estonia..they need to improve certain factors to achieve a eco tourism certificate & you use the case study info to suggest ways of doing that. Its quite straightforward, altho I did have a couple of curve balls thrown in during the discussion which alterted my budget & thinking a little!!

You cant really prepare for the written report, just ensure you write the report in a clear structured way with good english more than anything. So, give yourself time to read over before the time is up & don't go into to much detail! 30 mins isn't much time to read a few pages & then write 1/2 sides of a4 so manage your time well too!

Hello Pangkie.

 I am thinking of applying for the same role too. I would be really grateful if you could please tell me more about the first round interview and the assessment centre as well. Is the AC any different from the 'standard' one, I mean, do actuarial candidates have a special AC, or is it the same for everybody? How about the first round interview, i.e what type of questions have you had to answer? anything in particular about AIMS? I would really appreciate if you could please shed some more light onto these questions.

Hi everyone :) I had an interview for tax over the phone with PwC. It was a very short interview of less than half an hour (in terms of question time)

It was competency by HR.
I was tested on the following competencies:
Acquire and Apply Commercial and Technical Expertise
Be Open Minded, Agile with Change and Practical
Communicate with Impact and Empathy
Lead and Contribute to Team Success
Develop Self and Others Through Coaching
Be passionate About Client Service

One question I found tricky was area of personal development. Tell me what are you undertaking for your personal development.i wasn't sure if it was about asking how. Am developing or improving my interpersonal skills or other stuffs so. Just talked about how I am undertaking a foreign language course and theni ot asked how do I manage my time with my activities.
I guess the competencies will be according to the service line you are applying to. But make sure you have a question ready at the end in case you get the chance to ask questions.

And prepare 2 or 3 examples for each competencies. PwC has an employability brochure in its career website. There are xampes of questions and my questions

 were more or less similar to those in the brochure. 

Hope this helps.

Thanks for all the comments.

What I would like to know has anyone been rejected at a first interview in the past?

Because I had a terrible one, and just got a call back for the tests.

Does everyone get the tests and 1st interview before being rejected?

Hi Blitz999!

I got rejected at first interview last year. :(

I'm not sure what you mean about the tests, though?

This year the process for me was as follows:
1. Complete the application form (which didn't include any 'stupid' questions, as I like to call them).
2. Get invited (immediately) for online tests (numerical and logical reasoning).
3. When I passed those, I then got invited to complete the question about my ideal client (which, last year, was part of the initial application form).
4. Now, I've got an interview. :)

Does this help? Are you wondering whether you should put effort into the online tests if the interview has seemingly gone so bad?? I would definitely do it! Then again, I do enjoy those tests :P But even if you don't get any further, then you've still got experience with the tests...

On a separate note - THANK YOU to everyone who's posted advice here!! I didn't know about this site last year, so no wonder I didn't pass that interview!!!! :D This year, I've learned from my mistakes and have started the preparation early! :D Wish me luck, peeps! x

I'm going to re-apply to PwC after a rejection from the Partner Interview at the AC (was the only stage I fell down at)
This meant that I passed the initial stages, including the ideal client question.
I was wondering would I be able to use the same answer but updated slightly with new facts e.g. the company has recently started to branch out by selling different items.
Or would this not be wise - would their systems automatically filter it out?

Just so everyone can learn from my experience...

I applied to PwC Milton Keynes and was successful through the process. I was made an offer but during the process my circumstances changed and I decided to get a transfer to Newcastle. Initially I was told that is easily done. But as I asked them to do it the partner at Newcastle didn't want to take me on. At this point I decided that I would just take up the Milton Keynes offer but was advised that, that offer doesn't stand anymore because they are unsure about my commitment to the area! It was a devastating day! I've been advised to wait six months and try again. It simply doesn't make sense as I managed to get through the process.

So just as an advice, once you are made an offer DO NOT try to get a transfer its risky!!

Agreed..! All 15 questions are necessary to answer before designing a logo, Satellite internet in Tennessee . It simply doesn't make sense as I managed to get through the process.

Hi,

I have recently applied online for the Actuarial vacancy and received an email inviting me to the next stage. However, I do not know the date of my interview yet and i want to get everything prepared as soon as possible. Has anyone applied for Actuarial and Insurance Management Solutions? If so could you please help me by posting any suggestions about gaining more industry knowledge and what sort of actuary related questions they might ask

Hi all,

Can anyone just suggest on the recent financial and business issues please?

SRK86,

There's so many things that go on every day that it's difficult to summarise what's going on at any one moment in time. I would suggest you set aside some time, maybe an hour or so, every day to just glance at the BBC business news page, along with other sites. If you try and catch up with all the news its just impossible to do as a short term thing because you don't know where to start. When preparing for my interview, I started reading some of the 'need to know' columns in The Times, reading some of the major stories in the Business section, and scanning the BBC page. I then tried to keep an eye out for any major individual company problems I found interesting that related to macroeconomic issues. As an example: The decline in public spending and government cuts in areas like defence (macro issue) - what effect does this have for private sector firms that rely on government contracts? Could look at BAE Systems for example. Look at whats going in the housing/consruction industry - something like lowest numbers of new houses built for over 70 years? Why is this so.. Related to banks, lending and consumer confidence - maybe pick a business in this area and discuss this problem?

A bit of thought and you start getting somewhere. Financial and business issues are so broad and varied you can literally just talk about the stuff you're interested in (especially if you're applying for a consultancy role). If you're looking at the more financially geared areas of PwC then I would suggest you read up on banking issues and the accountancy profession, regulations etc..

Sorry for rambling!

Hello,

I have a phone interview with PWC for a vacancy in Assurance next week, can any body with a big heart and great sharing spirt :) share his/her experience and questions please.

I'm very frustrated and stressed, so any help will be greatly appreciated

Thanks for your help in advance.

Miz

Hello,

I recently had a face to face interview with PwC for Pensions, Dont know if it will be helpful for u but my interviewer stuck to the Global Core competencies. He had a printout with the competencies, after a few ice breaker questions which i dont really remember anymore :S he asked me:

 y i had chosen the particular office

i would advise u to thoroughly read this forum because most of the information is here and u shud read the global core competencies page on the pwc website because most of my questions were worded exactly like them.

i hope this helps!

Hi

I have my final interview with PwC for Assurance graduate scheme next week. I will be really grateful if u can guide me on the structure of the interview and if it is necessary to talk about assurance related topic for commercial awareness, as i am from non-financial background. If not, can you suggest some recent commercial awareness topics related to Assurance.

Thanks in Advance.

Psin,
I have applied for the same program (Assurance graduate scheme ) and i suppose to have a phone ineterview last week but due to health circunstances I was able to postpond it till next week .
I would really appreciate if you can kindly share your phone interview questions Assurance graduate scheme. At meantime I wish you good luck for your last interview .

Regards

Miz

Hi Miz

• Give one current piece of business news that caught my interest .
• Give one instance where you had to work in a team.
• Give one instance when received feedback.
• Give one instance when you had to work with a person who had a different management style than yours.
• Do you prefer to work in team or individually.
• Give one instance when you had to change your management style.
• Have you recently set any goal for yourself,

• What are the services that PwC provides
• What is specific to Assurance.
• How does PwC creates value for its clients.

Hope it helps, All the best for the interview.

psin

Hello Everyone,

If you would like to learn the secret to getting hired by the Big 4, straight from Big 4 alumni who have been through the process, check out www.big4guru.com.

Thanks

Telephonic first-round interview for Technology Assurance. My interviewer was polite and helpful, clearly explaining exactly what was required at each stage. She was not based in my chosen office, or from the line of service to which I applied, so there were some questions of mine which she was not able to answer. I was informed the interview would take approximately forty minutes. It took fifty.

The interview was highly standardized and competency based. The interview questions were organized into five of the ten global core competency areas mentioned on PwC's website. (See http://www.pwc.com/uk/en/careers/student/Interview_competencies.jhtml)

1. Lead and contribute to team success.
- Tell me about a time you were part of a team?
- Tell me about a time you had to work with someone with a different working style to yourself?

2. Be open-minded, agile with change, and practical.
- Tell me about a time you have had to work in an environment that differed from your usual working environment?
- Tell me about a time you have been given a task outside of your comfort zone?

3. Develop self and others through coaching.
- Tell me about a time you have set and achieved a personal development goal?
- Tell me about a time you have received feedback?

4. Acquire and apply commercial and technical expertise.
- Tell me about a recent piece of news that interests you? (Follow up questions: how did this affect that company? How did it affect their market share? How about their competitors? What could they have done differently? What would you advise them to do now?)
- How have you learned about PwC?

5. Be passionate about client service
- What do you understand the role of PwC to be? How do we add value to clients?
- What does the service line you applied to offer clients?
- Why did you apply to that service line?
- What is your understanding of what your role would be as a graduate recruit?

There were several follow up questions for every question.

I was then asked:

- Is there anything you would like to add to any section, or any additional information on competencies you would particularly like included in the assessment of this interview?
- Do you have any questions for us about the company or the role?

We ended by talking about the next stage of assessment and when I could expect to hear the outcome of the interview.

I hope this is helpful to someone.

Peace.

Hi,
I am also very interested in this subject, but the reference is very limited. You can share documents as well as experience? Thanks!

Thanks everyone for this incredibly comprehensive thread.

So much to go through its incredible.

I have my 1st interview at Uxbridge soon and I wonder if any one has been had one there recently or indeed works there!! - Anything to add on is always useful.

I am applying for Assurance.

Thanks guys.

Hi everyone,
All the information is very useful. I have to write my application question for PwC. I have applied for Assurance - IT Risk & Security.

What services and advice could PwC offer this client? - for this question, do I need to be general about the services PwC can provide

OR
is the answer must be specific to the services related to the division I have applied for.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
All the best for everyone!

Best Regards
Saz84

There's some good general help about these type of interviews on http://www.big4gossip.com/guides/firm-guide/105-interview-guide

But I'm trying to get some specific, but basic information on the risk assurance interviews at PWC. Does anyone have anything on this? I'm not entirely sure what the department does, but have managed to get an interview there, and don't want to look like an idiot.

Hi everyone,
Has anyone recently attended a telephone interview for the IT Security & Risk? Graduate opening?

I have my interview in few days. Looking for some guidance on what kind of questions to expect.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers
Saz84

Though its a little late, I would like to thank every one on this forum for their help. I got the Assurance Job !!

Hello Saz84

In my experience the telephonic interview is very generalist type and mostly the questions remain the same. I am saying this because myself along withe a bunch of friends had applied for graduate jobs in different segments. Mine was Assurance which I later managed to get.

In my case the Telephonic interview was divided into two parts : Commercial Awareness and Competency Based. Duration of the interview will be between 30 mins -1 hour.
Under Commercial Awareness they asked to discuss any current commercial topic that interests me. And then they asked me questions on the same.
For the competency based part I will recommend you go through the key skill-set desired by PwC in its employees and design cases to prove that you have those competencies.

The best part about the interview is you get an honest feedback later which helps you prepare better for the consequent stages.

Hope this helps .
psin

Sorry about the meaningless letters

Hi guys,
I had my telephone interview today and I would like to share the questions I was asked. Hope this may help the future applicants.

Change Management - Tell me a time when you impacted towards a change
Leadership - How did you set common goals? & Help them achieve it
What do you know about PwC's Services?
What sets us apart from our Competitors?
Tell me a time when you accepted a feedback and acted on them?
Time when you identified your development areas & What impacted that decision?
Would you like to add any other points to support your application?
Recent industry issue which attracted your attention? What advise would you provide them if they are PwC's client?

All the best to everyone out there!

Saz84

 Ive just received an offer for the 2012 graduate scheme in assurance. I found this website really useful and just would like to thank everyone for their posts and tips about the recruitment process. :) 

Hey k_angel105

Congratulations on your recent offer!! I am going to have the assessment center in London next week, just want to ask how's the written report and group exercise like? Are they still about "water conservation options" and "environmental sustainability" ? Or did they change the materials for the 2012 entry?

Btw, how did you find the numerical test? Could you pls let me know your score? Is it true that candidates have to score over 90% to secure the job? If we can't finish all the questions in time, is it advisable to make wild guess?

Your advice will be most appreciated...Thank you for your help in advance.

This site seems to get a good amount of visitors. How do you advertise it? It gives a nice unique twist on things. I guess having something authentic or substantial to say is the most important factor. http://www.glassdiningtablesguide.com

Hi guys !!

pwC asked me to come in on Monday 19th for my first interview!! (short notice to prep i know)

I am applying for CSA Client Service Administrator role...

Has anyone applied for this role and know an insight into what they may ask me.. looked at previous messages and it seems i have ALOT to cover in this short amount of time!! Can anyone help me narrow it down??!!..pleeeeassse someone help me!

fanx :-)

hey angela audit,

sorry i didnt reply to the post sooner i havent logged in for a while, i heard you need to get in the 60th percentile to pass numerics and logical....

also no point n making wild guesses, if you dont know it move on

the report is really time pressured.

the group exercise is about listening contributing and working as a team also making sure you know ur facts and figures etc

prob not useful since you have already done the AC but may help others x

hi k_angel105,

congrats on your offer! I was wondering if you could give me more info on the written case study? I just failed the e-tray at Deloitte so I'm a bit worried about the case study. Can you give me an idea of how you approached the written case study and how you structured it?

Thank you very much.

hi psin...congrats on receiving a job offer... i m about to apply to pwc in assurance. Could you please give me any guidance on where to prepare for the numerical and logical reasoning tests? are these the only two tests you got in the first time around??? How did u prepare for them and what are the pass marks???

your help is very much appreciated x

Hey everyone,

I just received an offer from PwC for its audit graduate program. I got a lot of help from this website so now is time to pay back:)) I am happy to answer all kinds of questions related to the whole process:)))

Good luck

hey

I had my first interview today, i dont think it went very well and there was one question that i just really couldnt answer :( would that mean I have failed?
also how did you guys hear back from them? did they call? as they just told me they would email me.

Thanks

@Angelaaudit - Hey, congratulations on your offer!

I just found out yesterday I'm through to my final interview for the Risk Assurance Split Scheme (half audit - half risk). I was hoping you could share your experiences from your partner interview. What kind of questions were you asked, and what areas of your application did the interviewer draw upon? Did you feel like they were giving you a grilling, or trying to learn more about your personality and how you'd fit in with PwC?

Any information you can give me on any part of this interview would be much appreciated! Oh and cross your fingers for me! :) Thanks!

@ays1990 - I'd say it depends what the question you got stuck on was, however I don't think they'd ever 'fail' a candidate, so to speak, based purely on one question alone. If you gave solid and well rounded answers for the others I think they may overlook it, just make sure you bring your A-game next round!

As regards for feedback, they will certainly call and e-mail every candidate regardless of acceptance/rejection - so don't worry about it too much, they'll get back to you shortly! The recruitment team seem very efficient.

Good luck!

Hi Angelaaudit,

I have a telephone interview next week and was wondering if there are any particularly tricky questions asked?

@ays1990 - what was the question that you could not answer?

Thanks

Hey Geek19,

It's pretty safe to say that your telephone interview will be based around the core competencies listed on their website, as the first stage is fully standardised and thus you're unlikely to face any tricky questions. The information in this thread (and on others on wikijobs) is certainly enough to get you through - I did the interview myself a few weeks ago!

Good luck!

Hi Geek19,

Well done on passing the tests:)) the first round interview is quite straight forward so don't worry. Be prepared with the competency based questions as listed on PwC's career website, here's the link http://www.pwc.com/uk/en/careers/student/applicationprocess/interview_competencies.jhtml .

I found the tricky part is that they will ask you to give an example of failing to demonstrate theses competencies, like "Tell me a time when you fail to meet the deadlines. If you are given a second chance what will you do to improve the situation?"

Overall the interview is not hard, and remember to keep your smile even you are doing a telephone interview. They are looking for enthusiastic and confident candidates:))

Good luck with your preparation:)) Best wishes.

xx

@eps877

Hey, many congratulations on passing the AC, you are almost there:)) The partner told me the passing rate for final interview is really high, so good luck:)))

As for my partner interview, it was a straight forward and friendly one. He followed the competency list first, so there were questions related to general business/ market, PwC, assurance, and how to sustain long-term relationship. I ask him several questions during the first 40 mins, so he did a lot of talking hoho:)) My partner is more interested in knowing my views towards certain business issues, so be prepared with the topics like euro zone/US debt, UBS rogue trader, ring-fencing and audit reform. Questions can be " Do you think accounting firms should be responsible for the banking crisis?" "What's your understanding of assurance service?" "Do you think accounting firms are independent enough?"

My partner is really friendly, so actually we finished all the competency questions very quickly, and then spend the time chatting other things, like what am I going to do if I got the job. So just relax:)))

I will keep my fingers and toes crossed for you and you have my best wishes:)) I have a feeling that we will meet someday at more London office haha:)))

Good luck:)))

@Angelaaudit

Hey Angela, congratulations on getting the job!

I am up to the final interview stage for Assurance and even though you have already given some information about what your final interview was like, I wondered if you had any other tips for me?
How many questions covered your business acumen?
Did you get to choose which business topic to speak about or did they choose for you?
Anything really that you think might be helpful.

Well done again,

Tony

Congrats on the offer.

For the assessment centre, the paper tests. Could you just confirm the tests you sat:
One numerical and one logical.

I have attended a/cs previously, and found the paper ones to be a lot harder - multiple graphs etc...

Did the PwC numerical test have multiple graphs etc? Do you have any tips on how to prepare for this. This is where I seem to fall down at assessment days.

Thanks very much,and congrats to all those with job offers!
.

hey tony23

i saw your post, congrats on final stage. i wondered if my experience may help you.
the topics i spoke about was the OFT reviewing the concentration of the big 4, stating your opinion on whether you think there is enough competition for audit job of the ftse. i think they audt 98% of ftse 100, 96% ftse 250. pwc also has the highest number clients in ftse 100 (40%). i thought there was alot of competition.
i discussed the ifrs, ias 39 on fair value accounting and how it exaccerbated the financial crisis and the box ticking culture. i look at bond covenants and how this prevented banks using other firms except big four and looked at feasibility of joint audits, creating of a 5th bif org from the decommisioning of the a public body 9cant rember the name).
also offshoring of audit is important as pwc are pushing it.
its also good to know which business sector you want to work in, new clients pwc have poached from others e.g. aviva. look at growth areas e.g. sustainability and environmental accounting for the business.
i think its good to have your own opinions using info you have researched instead of agreeing with the partner.
also look over your cometencies. i hope this helps you the partner said my interview was fantastic and one of the best he had because of the information i researched (using accountancy age) xx

good luck

@k_angel105

Thank you very much for taking the time out to give me some advice, that's very kind of you.

How much of your interview would you say was taken up by an assessment of your commercial awareness?
Why do you believe there is enough competition in the FTSE when 98% of the top 100 is made up of the Big Four?
Finally, did they specifically ask you about issues in the accountancy sector, and whether auditors were to blame for the financial crisis?

Sorry to quiz you again, it is just that commercial awareness I would consider my weakness and want to get as good an idea as possible about what I face.
Thanks again for your help,

Tony

half an hour was about commercial awareness. the only thing i would say there is enough competition in the big four is the nature of the competition between them, the partners work hard to pitch for tenders and the partner agreed with this. also some info said it was the most highly competitive market for audit.
also a reason for the big four i argued is that in this industry, the ftse 100 companies are so complex that they require sepcialised services and a vast range of resources so maybe there is only room for big four firms? if there were more firms then price competition may affect audit quality.
ive heard that the big four have been undercutting firms like pkf for tenders, even if they make no profit just to keep employees on and to win further contracts with the firm in the future. you might want to think about that?
its all your own opinion i think you can justify for and against as long as you have info to back it up x

@k_angel

Thank you so much again for your help.

One final query, what do you think about the independence of audit firms? Are they independent enough, if not, why not?

Best wishes,

Tony

Hey guys,

I just got offered a position in the Risk Assurance department in the Leeds office, so I'm happy to answer any questions! My graduate scheme is a 'split scheme', so I specialise in both Risk Assurance and Audit, so happy to answer any questions relating specifically to these areas, or to any part of the application process. I would like to thank everyone who's contributed to this topic for the help and guidance you offered me!

@Tony23 - Regarding the independence of audit firms - events such as the Satyam scandal in India, where the accountability of the independent auditor (PwC!) was in question, could suggest that their is still room for improvement. Read up on Commissioner Barnier’s Green Paper on Audit (the FT website is a good start), and the proposed options (most importantly, the suggestion to split audit/non-audit operations, however their are other less radical ones such as auditor rotation).

Thanks all!

• Edited for double post, oops!*

HI eps877,

First of all, well done! I have a final partner interview for the split scheme in the coming weeks and have a few questions.
Was the interviewer from the risk department as opposed to audit and were the questions evenly split between the two or more about risk?
Were the competency questions just from the partner interview competency list they give you?
Did they want much commercial awareness around risk, assurance or just general business commercial awareness?

Thanks for your time!!

@Profspice

Congrats on the interview! The partner was from Risk Assurance, and as the split scheme is a relatively new concept, he wasn't a chartered accountant and was therefore more interested in the risk side as opposed to audit - I think all partner interviews for the split scheme are done with Risk Assurance staff.

The competency questions were very predictable, focusing on personal relations/networking, teamwork, conflict resolution, personal development and presenting to large groups. He also asked me about my weaknesses and how I intended to improve on them. I don't think any question can throw you off if you've put in the prep.

As for commercial awareness, he seemed more focused on risk, though he didn't go into to much detail. We began by talking about the RBS scandal, and the lack of controls and hence expose to risk which enabled the trader to get away with it for as long as he did. Then it was more of a general chat about how risk has become more and more important on a businesses' agenda, especially with new innovation and technologies in ICT controls, drawing in from several different affairs.

Before we even got onto the competency questions we spent around 20-30mins just chatting about what I'd been up to since finishing uni, football (we both supported the same club!) and just general chit-chat to assess how you'd interact with clients - so if you can hold a good conversation here, you're already half way! They're just as interested in your personality and how you behave than what you have to say. It was a really enjoyable and relaxed chat - he was reluctant to even ask the competency questions but said he had to as procedure, which kinda shows how the focus is on you as a person, so I shouldn't worry too much - like everyone says, the hard parts are already over!

Good luck!

P.s. Which office are you applying to?

Hi guys,
Three days ago I got an offer for a role at SAP Business Controls at Technology Assurance. It starts in April 2012. The work is on the borderline of audit and advisory, as the SAP team is involved in both kinds of work.
I can answer your questions on the application process. Basically, it took me about 2 and a half months to pass it. I made an application in the middle of August, had a telephone interview on the first week of September, had an AC 2 weeks later, and had the senior interview three days ago.

Hi Mxisme! Big congrats on the offer1

I have just completed my phone interview.
I seem to make it to assessment centres, but fall down on the testing. I've found that the tests harder than the online one.
The last assessment centre numerical test I sat, for each question there were several graphs and information ... and i just couldnt work through it.

Is this the case with pwc? What sort of format do they take?
Please could you provide me with any further information regarding this, and any tips on how you prepared for the tests.

Well done again!
Thanks :)

ey123,
Tests given at the assessment center are very similar to online tests which you did before the interview. The only difference is that you do them on paper this time. Personally, at the assessment center I did the numerical test slower than the online test due to stress.
I didn't prepare much for the test. On the day before the assessment center I did a sample test by SHL online, and that's it. But it all depends on you. If you have doubts - prepare. Good luck!

Quick question, during the first interview when they ask about the service lines PWC provide, would you just talk about the 6 offered to graduates or the 12 offered to general businesses. I dont want to run the risk of stating the 6 and miss out another 6 but my problem is explaing the total 12 will take me about 10 minutes :S

http://www.pwc.co.uk/eng/services/index.html - these are the 12 service lines, and im hoping you guys know the graduate ones i.e. tax, consulting, audit etc

any help would very much be appreciated

I think talking about 6 is enough

I think talking about 6 is enough

Hey guys,

I got a place in Assurance at the Cambridge office, starting April 2012.
Will be pleased to answer any queries anyone has as I know how helpful others were to me.

Hi Tony! Big congrats on the offer :)
Im lookiing for any help with the tests - ive found them difficult at previous a/c, so really dont want to mess this one up.

Do you know if they are SHL? if not, would you say they are a similar style, or more wordy/ more graphs to look at?

Basically, any information you could provide, I would really appreciate it.

Thank you

Hi,

I was wondering if anybody is going through a similar experience to me. I've applied for Management Consulting 2012 (London).

I applied early and had my assessment centre at the end of September. I was told I made it through on that day and would be allocated a partner interview within 5 days.

Anyhow, today's the 6th of November and still no interview.

They've been in contact to reassure me, but it's getting a bit frustrating. Obviously, they're not the only company I'm mid-process with, but I feel like having to use another offer as collateral for a final interview would defy the point of the recruitment process.

Is anybody waiting for a MC final interview, or is there anyone who's had this and received offers?

Thanks.

Hello,

I've got an assessment centre soon, would any body be able to help with the group and written exercise please! I'm so nervous!

Thank you

hey everyone im applying to tax and have just passed my first interview. ive yet to book my assessment centre which gives dates going from late NOV to start of DEC

anyone else waiting book an assessment centre?

Plus can anyone give me advice on the group assessment. Any tips and what did you discuss etc?

Does the AC just consist of numerical, diagrammatically and group based tests?

Hi everybody,

I just had my first telephone interview for Assurance. I have been reading this thread and others, and everybody else seemed to be assessed on 5 competencies which are: teamwork, dealing with change, developing self and others, client service and commercial awareness. These are also the 5 competencies they list on the website that are for first interview.

However I was shocked to be asked questions about demonstrating courage and integrity and managing projects and economics, which are supposed to be competencies for the partner interview according to their website. So I said to the interviewer and she was like "oh really?" but went on asking two questions each on these competencies.... So I just came up with some spontaneous examples I haven't prepared....

Does anybody else have the same experience? It seems like everybody got asked only on the 5 competencies they list on the website...

Cheers..

They have actually changed the competencies for the first interview! I think the last time I actually went to the webstite was in August... :(

Congrats Tony.....

Is there any chance you or anybody else can share some links of resources which you used to prepare for the tests in the assessment centre???.... especially the diagrammatic questions...

Thanks in advance

I read accountacy age all the time, I've never seen IAS 39 mentioned. Where did you get this info? Did you study accounting at uni? Bond covenants? Where are you reading this?

What do you mean "offshoring of audit"?

Thanks

Also, when was the main content of this article last updated? The first interview competencies seem to have changed.

Also, just to confirm, the competencies tested in the first interview are not the ones listed above. They are now:

Communicating with impact and empathy
Acquire and Apply Commercial and Technical Expertise
Lead and Contribute to Team Success
Be Open Minded, Agile with Change and Practical
Manage Projects and Economics
Demonstrate Courage and Integrity

More info can be found here :http://www.pwc.com/uk/en/careers/student/applicationprocess/interview_competencies.jhtml

and here

http://www.pwc.com/uk/en/careers/webadmin/documents/student/2011/employability-booklet-2011-12.pdf

Can anyone who has had a telephone interview recently specifically remember and questions that were asked for each of the above competencies?

Thanks

Hey SI-Smith, congratulations on going through the assessment centre!
I am in the same boat, I have to say. I can tell you that the reason for them delaying the interview is that the London partners seem to be extremely busy at the moment and cannot accommodate interviews. At the same time, I have been told that the positions for 2012 have now been filled, so we will be asked to transfer our applications to another year/city/service. It's been a week since you posted your message. Do you have any news? I would be thankful if you could share, please?

What service line have you applied to?

Hi Arctica,

I've received exactly the same news as you. Good in some respects, as at least now we know what's going on! However, I do feel we should have been communicated to a lot better. Not too sure what I'll do. Definitely not the nicest treatment I've receive from an employer so far though.

Have you decided what you'll do yet? Have you received a partner interview date yet?

Management Consulting, London 2012

Hi SI-Smith,

Yes you are right, not the best treatment, unfortunately. When I phone them up, the people are quite helpful, but I am getting now increasingly confused with these transfers. I already transferred my application once (spring to autumn) and now I am being told that I might have to transfer it a second time to 2013... This will be a really tough decision.. I haven't decided what to do in such a case. I am really committed to both the service line and the location.. but 2013 is a long wait..

I do not have an interview date, yet. You?

Hey arctica and SI-Smith,

Seriously!? No more vacancies for MC in London? What exactly did they say? I'm flying all the way from Singapore this week for an assessment center. Awesome. Can you defer to Spring 2013? Even so that's still quite a long wait from September, specially if they can't guarantee it 100%.

Hey Roger,

Yes, no more vacancies for 2012. And yes again - you can defer until 2013 if you are successful at the assessment centre, so don't worry about that. I would say for the moment just concentrate on the AC and fingers crossed for you! Let us know how it goes.

Hi there. Do you have any tips for the written task? is it hand written or completed on the computer? Would you be able to provide any insight on the topic?

Thanks for your time

Hi there. Do you have any tips for the written task? is it hand written or completed on the computer? Would you be able to provide any insight on the topic?

Thanks for your time

Hello ey123,

The written task is hand-written. It is very time-restricted, so you will really have to hurry. First you read a company case, list the options, make a choice about an option and explain the motivation for your choice. All of these components should contain no more than about 2-3 sentences each, as you have two A4 pages and very little time. The most important thing is to be structured in your answer, possibly using headings, and formulate clear and correct sentences.

Hello ey123,

The written task is hand-written. It is very time-restricted, so you will really have to hurry. First you read a company case, list the options, make a choice about an option and explain the motivation for your choice. All of these components should contain no more than about 2-3 sentences each, as you have two A4 pages and very little time. The most important thing is to be structured in your answer, possibly using headings, and formulate clear and correct sentences.

I had my first interview last week. Here are the questions I got asked:

Contributing to Team success
• Tell me a time when you had to work with somebody with a different working style, what would u do differently
• Tell me a time when you worked in a team

Manage projects and economics
• When you were in charge of a project?
• When you had to keep within a budget or time constraint, what did u learn from it

Agile with change
• When you have to do something different at work? What impacted you adapting
• When you did something without having much information or guidance, what made the difference

Demonstrating courage and integrity
• When you were in situation at work where procedures are breached? What was your personal view on it?
• When you raised a concern about an issue at work?

Using commercial and technical expertise
• Tell me about the qualification you will be undertaking
• What did u do to keep up with what’s going on in the news?
• Tell me a recent piece of news, how PwC can help and what's the future of the company

Hope that helps!! :)

I had my interview today... Questions were similar to ltjandra.

However, none of the questions exactly matched those in this thread so far other than the "Using commerical and technical expertise" section.

It's bizarre, I've had interviews with KPMG and now PwC and neither of them has asked me why I am interested in working for KPMG/PwC or why audit.

hi ok_cub2008! Could you please be a bit more specific on how your questions were different??
Thank you in advance!

Seems people are getting notices that positions are now filled and would have to make a difficult decision!

I passed my AC last week and am worried about this. I really cannot see how you can give up any of location, line of service, intake year after putting so much thought into these in the first place.

Really sorry for your situation Artica and SI-smith. Hope this brings better outcome in your future careers

anyone had a first/telephone interview recently? if successful did anyone receive feedback?

How long does it usually take to hear back? I had my phone interview last Saturday and had the same questions as ltjandra. Unfortunately, I didn't realise the competencies changes either so really struggled. Now I'm just waiting for my rejection email...!

Hi,

I applied for tax and received an offer last week. I've been trying to get on a grad scheme a long time and have been to 4 ACs and countless interviews. My best advice would be to relax!

Hi sophiedav90

So u're in the same boat as me.. I was so gutted i didn't double check the competencies before the interview. But fortunately I passed, and I was surprised that they told me within a day! Considering my interview was on friday and they got back to me on saturday, I think they are really efficient so you won't wait for long I guess.

Good luck. Have u heard yet from them?

No! and it's been over a week since my interview!

Hi Guys

Had my interview today, was pretty intense! followed the same format as ltjandra, but they kept asking me how/why etc so be prepared to follow up your examples!!

Good luck

Hi, guys. Have u rev'd invitation to AC recently? I had my tel interview on Tue and just rec'd the email telling me I passes the interview.

i heard that pwc open some places up in july for september 2012 in london assurance so maybe the same case for other divisions. i was asked this summer if i cud start in sept 2011 not 2012 as they had some vacancies to fill for assurance in london.

Just wondering if anyone's had their final interview yet. I got mine next week and don't really know what or how many business issues to learn. I'm thinking about learning in depth about the euro zone debt crisis and the proposed audit reform. Is this what other people have done and has two issues been enough for others?

Thanks

Hello,

I've got a partner interview next week and I was wondering if anyone would be able to go through their experiences and provide any hints and tips for me?

Thanks

I have one too. What have you applied for?

My partner interview was just an informal chat about my experiences really. Strengths and weaknesses too. I think it depends on the partner though.

Hi, anyone from the morning assessment centre on the 30th heard back?

Hi, anyone from the morning assessment centre on the 30th heard back?

Hi, anyone from the morning assessment centre on the 30th heard back?

Hi, anyone from the morning assessment centre on the 30th heard back?

Hi everyone,

How long is the ACA qualification. Someone told me 2 years, and someone else 3?

thanks

Its 15 exams over 3 years, but you do the majority of them in the first year

Do the questions change or are they very similar?
Got my first telephone interview this week.

Hi,

Like others before me I found this site incredibly useful and just wanted to thank everyone for their contributions. I had my A/C June 2011 and final interview September 2011. The large gap between the 2 are because I had originally applied for an internship but they ran out of spaces and moved me to the graduate scheme application.

I got a job offer, which I have subsequently rejected, so I wanted to offer my help. I feel this thread along with others give you all the information you need but if anyone still wants to ask me a question feel free to message me.

Good luck.

hey

any tips on the assessment centre

in particular are you aware of the marking criteria...i.e. negative marking

im not sure whether to guess on certain questions if im unsure on them?.... what did you do? and how many questions did you manage to anwer roughly?...

cheers mate... i appreciate your time to answer

There's some good general help about these type of interviews on http://big4gossip.com/careers/interview-advice

But I'm trying to get some specific, but basic information on the risk assurance interviews at PWC. Does anyone have anything on this? I'm not entirely sure what the department does, but have managed to get an interview there, and don't want to look like an idiot.

Hi,

I had a partner interview on Thursday at Pwc but still havent heard anything from them.All my past results were given on the same day. I know they usually say 3-5 working days but I was wondering if the delay indicates that I may have failed? Very concerened!

hi meanie, did u find out ur assessment day result on the same day? or how long roughly do they take.... thanks

Hi Citychick!

Yes i found the result on the same day! They called me when i was on my way back home! They say 3-5 working days/

Hi Citychick!

Yes i found the result on the same day! They called me when i was on my way back home! They say 3-5 working days/

Hi Citychick!

Yes i found the result on the same day! They called me when i was on my way back home! They say 3-5 working days/

Hello Meanie,

Which service line are you applying for?
I have been waiting for an interview for a really long time now, so getting concerned...

Thanks!!

Hi Veronika

I applied for Assurance in London. What about you? Is that the final interview you are waiting for?This wait is killing me!

anyone else have an AC on the 9th in London?

Meanie, did you find out the result yet?
I hate this wait!

Hi,

I've got through to AC! Can anyone give me general advice please, but specifically about the written report you have to do. What it is about and how would you recommend laying out the report. I'm not sure if it's just common-sense?

thanks

Has anyone else been experiencing really slow response rate from their HR? It seems like they take ages to reply!

yes what outcome are u waiting for? assessment or interview? previously people found out the result a few hours later....

They seem to be very slow. Had my AC 8th of November and still waiting for partner interview to be scheduled. Anyone experiencing delays on their senior interviews?

They seem to be very slow. Had my AC 8th of November and still waiting for partner interview to be scheduled. Anyone experiencing delays on their senior interviews?

Hi there.
Yes I am experiencing delays for my partner interview. What information have they provided you with?
They have told me there are no slots avaliable.. I'm worried I will be forgotten about!

What role have you applied to? April/September intake?

Thanks

ey123 ive heard there may not be interviews avail until after xmas, what have u applied for and what intake?

ey123 ive heard there may not be interview avail until after xmas...theyre really busy....which is annoying! what have u applied for and what intake? also u said u had ur ac back in nov, how long did it take to hear outcome after ac? and have u been waiting since then to book a partner interview...

..

ey123,

they told me that I would have to wait for 2-3weeks right after my AC. And from then I have been calling once every week to make sure that I'm still in the game.
I've applied to advisory, sept intake. you?

citychick123, I heard about my AC two days later.

Had an interview last week, still waiting to hear. Quite unexpected from them, thought they were much faster... Dont know what's going on but I can just guess that they are extremely busy or staff are absent due to imminent holiday period...

Oh! written style is very interesting. I like this content.
http://www.paragonremodeling.com

Andoo819,

Are you still waiting to hear back from first interview or partner interview?

I am in same position, took a while to schedule partner interview and I've been waiting a few days for a response.

Hi All,

Was wondering if anyone has any tips for practising the written/report writing exercise in the AC?

Also, is it true that there are really no interviews in the assessment centre? As far as I know they still had the partner interview in the second stage last year, but this year it seems to be in the final stage only. I still can't believe that my ac will only consist of exercises and tests - is there a chance there'll be a surprise interview or presentation?

Thanks and all the best of luck to everyone!

Hi guys,

Can you please tell me what is asked during the telephone interview please.

Thanks in advance!!

Hi all,
If anyone has had a first interview recently can you please share with us the questions you were asked. It would really help a lot. Thanks in advance.

Hey guys,

I have the exact same question as ford.

I've applied for Management Consulting and I have my assessment centre booked in early January. Should I be expecting an interview, because the PwC site seems to suggest not..?

There are no interviews at the AC, its a numerical and diagrammatical test then group exercise only. To be honest there isn't much you can do to prepare for it. Do some practice tests i guess. Knowing anything about the group exercise is probably a hinderance.

hi ford, how did the AC go? did you hear back from them? i have mine coming up and was wondering if you had any hints or tips?

Hi, just wondering if anyone is having an AC soon at the cambridge office or manchester?

I've also got my PwC Assessment Center coming up soon in London like indigo123 and JL2011.

Has anyone recently attended one of these PwC AC's that can share their experience. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Specifically the written exercise that they give you.

Hi, I had my AC in Bristol before xmas and this site has been very helpful so I thought I'd share my experiences.

There were 12 people there for the assessment centre, we were all taken up to a meeting room and had the structure of the day explained to us, then we watched a short video about PwC.

First we had an analysis piece to do, we had about an hour (may of been 50min) to read through a booklet of info and then summarise the options and write a recommendation, Time is very tight and I didn't manage to finish my recommendation, I would recommend writing that first to avoid the problem I had. You have 2 sides of A4 to write on and I would also recommend using bullet points to cut down on time

We were then divided up into 2 groups of 6, one group would do the numerical and diagrammatic tests first, the other the group exercise.
The test are 20 min each and weren't too hard I thought. Very much the same as the online ones.
The group work is presenting and discussing different options for a business, Just make sure you make your case clearly, listen to others and make sure you all come to a clear agreement within the time limit (about half hour) . I found it helpful to make a map of who was sitting where at the table so I could refer to people by name and to keep an eye on the time, it passes faster than expected.

Then that was all for the day, we went to another room to have lunch and chat with some employees and we were told we would hear back in 3 days.
I passed and I've got my final interview tomorrow, thank you everyone for your helpful comments.

Hi People,

I had my AC in London around mid December for Financial Advisory. I was told that I had passed but because of the holiday period that my partner interview will not be happening till January. Are any of you in the same boat?

yeah, i had my partner interview on december 21st and found out i'd passed the next day. I keep ringing up to schedule a partner interview but being told that they are trying to confirm availability with the partners. How long do people normally wait? Does anyone have any tips on the final interview? Do a lot of people get rejected at this stage?

I received an email from HR saying that Financial Advisory interviews will not be happening till end of Jan/ early Feb. As far as I've heard the largest cut off point is the online application and secondly the AC. From what I understand the partner interview is meant to be like a friendly talk.

I had my AC on the 19th of December and found out a few days after I was though and they would get back to me in the new year with partner interview dates. I phoned them on tuesday and they said they would phone in the next three working days....no word as of yet though....

Thanks for sharing Eugenides! It seems it's still the same process that I had, which gives me a minimal comfort. ¬.¬ I'm in the middle of the second attempt of HR scheme cos I failed at senior interview last time.

Just wondering how's your final interview? Got any feedback yet?

HI Tony. Congratulations for your offer. I will have soon a partner interview for a place in Assurance in Cambridge. Can you plese give me an hint? Can you also tell me how would you answer to the question: why Cambridge?

Thank you in advance.
Golden.

Hi, I've failed my senior interview on account of not giving enough examples of pushing myself and going outside my comfort zone (something I was worried about at the beginning at the process) though I've been told I can reapply in 3 months but will have to go through the entire process again.

The senior interview was fine, its just really a chat as people have said, though they do have a list of questions to ask you, mostly very similar to the phone interview. I would make sure you read up on everything you've submitted to PwC as I was asked about the piece I wrote on an ideal client for PwC, I was also asked about auditing such as what I thought 'true and fair' meant to me and some basics about auditing such as valuing as I mentioned this was the part I was interested in. I think as long as you take the time to think about your answer you should be fine (and use a range of examples, something I didn't :( )

@ Eugenides

I'm really sorry.......I applied for HR and I was asked a lot about my uni life and how it made difference on the way I think and the reason I chose HR etc. It was friendly but as I recollect I'm sure the interviewer did probe into my answers seriously. My biggest problem was "I didn't articulate". Although I didn't waffle, I guess the problem was I didn't provide solid examples or the way I talked was just not really professional. Also I thought I might be too calm. I should show more passions about joining the firm. :D

Three months isn't that bad at all although going from the beginning is a bit daunting. Have faith in yourself is the most important. Again thank you for sharing the experience and good luck with other applications!

@G song. I'm sorry to hear you didn't get through that time.

Don't worry about it, it looks like making sure you have a solid variety of examples that you can talk about in depth is the key to these interviews. Doing it all again is a a little daunting but at least I can go in with the confidence of knowing I can at least get to the senior interview stage.

@ Eugenides
Yeah it's true. It felt much better that I know what I should expect and I can prepare for it.
Also it's good to have you confirmed some of my presumptions. I've been thinking a lot after the failure that what exactly would tick the boxes in the senior interview. To me it's more subjective and personal than the standardised tele interview. The candidate should really stand out of the crowd to get a position.

Hey guys!
I would need a little help and your opinion! I live in the States where I graduated from a 4 year, credited University; working with PWC has been a dream of mine, ever since a recruiter came out to our high school and talked about the company. However, at the point of graduating from the university, I already held a job at a consulting firm, where I worked for about 3 more years post graduation. Now I really want to chase after my dream and vision of employment with PWC, however I find it VERY difficult to get in touch with any recruiters here where I live (I'm from Chicago). All I get back from them is to go online and apply for the available positions and no feedback whatsoever. I know there are hundreds of people applying for these positions as well as internal firm candidates, which explains why the recruiters don't really want people bothering them.
I also could apply for the firm's competitors: Deloitte, Ernst & Young, etc., but PWC has been my dream. I know it will probably be really hard to get an interview and I am kicking myself in the a** for not doing an internship w/ PWC while in school, or at least working with a recruiter while a student . I've re-worked my CV and have multiple recommendation letters, and still I seem to be stuck.
Have any of you been in a similar situation to mine or have any recommendations of what else I could do to at least land an interview?? I am willing to even get an entry level position. Please help! Thanks guys!!! :)

@ Monika86

Just sent you a PM that might help. Thanks

Hiya, I've got a partner interview in TS on the 1st Feb. Would be really great if anyone could provide me with their experiences to help me prepare any questions and get a general idea of the day :)

Hello to everyone... I just got a rejection form PWC TS (transaction services) for a graduate position at the telephone stage... I just thought it would be really helpful for everyone else to know some stuff in advance.

ALL YOU NEED IS TO GUIDE YOURSELF BY READING CAREFULLY THE TIPS ON THIS PAGE:

 http://www.embark.pwc.com/doccentre/interview-feedback.asp  (NOT A SPAM)

any other question you might prepare. like the ones listed at the top of this pages will not be much of assistance.

GOOD LUCK TO EVERY ONE WITH YOUR FUTURE!

am

Hi tony23,

I will soon have a partner interview at the Cambridge office for a place in Aussrance as well!! Could you share your experience on the partner interview? What questions you got asked? and other general advices? I also read a lot about how they like to talk about a commericail issue in the partner interview, which topics did you discuss?

thank you very much for your help!!!!

Hi tony23,

I will soon have a partner interview at the Cambridge office for a place in Aussrance as well!! Could you share your experience on the partner interview? What questions you got asked? and other general advices? I also read a lot about how they like to talk about a commericail issue in the partner interview, which topics did you discuss?

thank you very much for your help!!!!

Hi all,
In the first interview, how many questions were you asked on each competency?

And also, I've just read a post about why someone's chosen a certain location, i.e. Cambridge. Now the office I chose was simply because its the closest one to me, with available vacancies at the time of applying. Do you think if asked that question, I should come up with a better answer? lol :)

Thanks

hi everyone

i am stuck at the PwC talent questionnaire, should you answer it in a way that reflects pwc's desired competencies or just be honest. i appreciate your help

@ Monali

First priority, be yourself;
Second, explore your competencies that match PwC's requirements.

Hi Eugenides, thank you for sharing your experience at the partner interview. I am sorry to hear the bad news.
I am preparing for a partner interview at the moment and having read your post, I am very nervous now! So just wanted to gather more information on the interview. Do you remember what sort of question get asked under the "Maintain and sustain relationship" competency?as I am currently stucked in :(, and what other questions did you get asked? were they mostly competencies based or more on commerical awareness?
Thank you very much for your help!

Hi guys,

I have passed the tests for a role in Indirect Tax London and have just been automatically booked in for a telephone interview! (I am assuming this has happened because of my current location - Edinburgh?) I noticed that I have the choice between either a face-to-face interview or a telephone interview..... which method would be better?

Any help would be greatly appreciated ! :)

Hi all,

Has anyone of you had a partner interview recently? If you did, how long until they got back to you with the result?

Thanks!

Hello all,

I just got offered a year lon placement at PWC and used this site a lot so thought I'd sign up and give my insight.

First interview was basically exactly as described above. I had written answers to all possible questions prepared, the main ones that I found though were the integrity questions I was asked 'Describe a time when you have been asked to work in a way you are not used to and how you approached it' sometimes it is hard to think of examples if you don't really have any! Other than that was quite a standardised interview, and was told the next day I had passed.

Assessment centre was a repeat of the maths and logic tests you already have done, the test was actually a little easier in my opinion, but the layout is exactly the same so if you passed legitimately the first time you will have no problems second time round. Then the group task was about this pretend energy firm that everyone is talking about. Had to discuss different options for reusing waste materials. I was praised on my ability to challenge other people but in a nice manner, and my open approach to the discussions. I was told that taken the lead would not have been a problem, despite them telling you not to. Talking to other candidates, if someone in your AC tries to dominate everyone the best approach is to politely ask them to riegn in a bit to allow others to share their ideas. Also there was a written report in the AC. What I wrote was absolute gobbledygook but they praised my layout and a clear intro/main/conclusion. I used bullet points etc to add to layout.

To answer the above I was told the same day as my partner interview that I had passed, it was yesterday morning and I was told at about 4pm. I was asked questions about what I would do if I was working at Tesco and needed to attract customers to using internet shopping. At this stage the interviewer was not happy to let me get away with just one idea, he pushed me for 4 or 5. I was praised in my feedback for not crumbling, and for remaining calm and confident when pushed for more and more. It is really tough to give advice about partner interview as it really depends on the person, I think I was lucky that the partner I had was really nice. (By the way if you happen to be told who your interviewer is before you go you can look them up on the PWC site and perhaps find out their interests, then pretent you have the same interests! I wasn't told though). Anyway it lasted about 50 minutes, seemed to fly by had a really nice chat with the bloke, we discussed career possibilities and also some current affairs stuff that might affect business. I just stuck with economic uncertainty and also uncertainty about the future of the EU. I was then grilled with what I would do if I was David Cameron in order to instill confidence in the markets!

I'm dead chuffed about getting the placement, but to be honest I didn't find the recruitment procedure very difficult. I was confident after each stage that I had passed. The key thing is to be as prepared as possible, eliminating the chance of being stung by suprise questions.

LJ

Hello all,

I just got offered a year lon placement at PWC and used this site a lot so thought I'd sign up and give my insight.

First interview was basically exactly as described above. I had written answers to all possible questions prepared, the main ones that I found though were the integrity questions I was asked 'Describe a time when you have been asked to work in a way you are not used to and how you approached it' sometimes it is hard to think of examples if you don't really have any! Other than that was quite a standardised interview, and was told the next day I had passed.

Assessment centre was a repeat of the maths and logic tests you already have done, the test was actually a little easier in my opinion, but the layout is exactly the same so if you passed legitimately the first time you will have no problems second time round. Then the group task was about this pretend energy firm that everyone is talking about. Had to discuss different options for reusing waste materials. I was praised on my ability to challenge other people but in a nice manner, and my open approach to the discussions. I was told that taken the lead would not have been a problem, despite them telling you not to. Talking to other candidates, if someone in your AC tries to dominate everyone the best approach is to politely ask them to riegn in a bit to allow others to share their ideas. Also there was a written report in the AC. What I wrote was absolute gobbledygook but they praised my layout and a clear intro/main/conclusion. I used bullet points etc to add to layout.

To answer the above I was told the same day as my partner interview that I had passed, it was yesterday morning and I was told at about 4pm. I was asked questions about what I would do if I was working at Tesco and needed to attract customers to using internet shopping. At this stage the interviewer was not happy to let me get away with just one idea, he pushed me for 4 or 5. I was praised in my feedback for not crumbling, and for remaining calm and confident when pushed for more and more. It is really tough to give advice about partner interview as it really depends on the person, I think I was lucky that the partner I had was really nice. (By the way if you happen to be told who your interviewer is before you go you can look them up on the PWC site and perhaps find out their interests, then pretent you have the same interests! I wasn't told though). Anyway it lasted about 50 minutes, seemed to fly by had a really nice chat with the bloke, we discussed career possibilities and also some current affairs stuff that might affect business. I just stuck with economic uncertainty and also uncertainty about the future of the EU. I was then grilled with what I would do if I was David Cameron in order to instill confidence in the markets!

I'm dead chuffed about getting the placement, but to be honest I didn't find the recruitment procedure very difficult. I was confident after each stage that I had passed. The key thing is to be as prepared as possible, eliminating the chance of being stung by suprise questions.

LJ

Hello all,

I just got offered a year lon placement at PWC and used this site a lot so thought I'd sign up and give my insight.

First interview was basically exactly as described above. I had written answers to all possible questions prepared, the main ones that I found though were the integrity questions I was asked 'Describe a time when you have been asked to work in a way you are not used to and how you approached it' sometimes it is hard to think of examples if you don't really have any! Other than that was quite a standardised interview, and was told the next day I had passed.

Assessment centre was a repeat of the maths and logic tests you already have done, the test was actually a little easier in my opinion, but the layout is exactly the same so if you passed legitimately the first time you will have no problems second time round. Then the group task was about this pretend energy firm that everyone is talking about. Had to discuss different options for reusing waste materials. I was praised on my ability to challenge other people but in a nice manner, and my open approach to the discussions. I was told that taken the lead would not have been a problem, despite them telling you not to. Talking to other candidates, if someone in your AC tries to dominate everyone the best approach is to politely ask them to riegn in a bit to allow others to share their ideas. Also there was a written report in the AC. What I wrote was absolute gobbledygook but they praised my layout and a clear intro/main/conclusion. I used bullet points etc to add to layout.

To answer the above I was told the same day as my partner interview that I had passed, it was yesterday morning and I was told at about 4pm. I was asked questions about what I would do if I was working at Tesco and needed to attract customers to using internet shopping. At this stage the interviewer was not happy to let me get away with just one idea, he pushed me for 4 or 5. I was praised in my feedback for not crumbling, and for remaining calm and confident when pushed for more and more. It is really tough to give advice about partner interview as it really depends on the person, I think I was lucky that the partner I had was really nice. (By the way if you happen to be told who your interviewer is before you go you can look them up on the PWC site and perhaps find out their interests, then pretent you have the same interests! I wasn't told though). Anyway it lasted about 50 minutes, seemed to fly by had a really nice chat with the bloke, we discussed career possibilities and also some current affairs stuff that might affect business. I just stuck with economic uncertainty and also uncertainty about the future of the EU. I was then grilled with what I would do if I was David Cameron in order to instill confidence in the markets!

I'm dead chuffed about getting the placement, but to be honest I didn't find the recruitment procedure very difficult. I was confident after each stage that I had passed. The key thing is to be as prepared as possible, eliminating the chance of being stung by suprise questions.

LJ

Hello everyone,

Thanks to all the help from this and other few posts regarding PwC, I have just received an offer (after a 5-month process). I am grateful for everyone that has contributed to this great post, and it's time for me to give back. I don't want to repeat what others have contributed so I will share some different points that is rarely mentioned in this post.

Going through this process, I have learned a valuable lesson that I'd like to share to those of you that are browsing this forum to find info for 2013-4 intakes.

"Apply as early as possible"

Keep checking the vacancies on the web-site, call the recruitment team to find out when your line of service opens its recruitment and apply. Three reasons to this,

1. I belive you cannot actually 'practice' for the process except for the online assessments which you would only need 1-2 full days to prepare
2. The process drags out a lot during busy seasons, meaning you have to wait months in between processes: you lose your momentum.
3. Positions fill up very quickly, so there is a chance you might lose your spot even in the middle of your process

Also for those preparing for final interivew (there is ample info on assessment day but not as much on final interview). You are almost there! Feel good about yourself. The reason they called you in is because they are looking to 'hire' you, not ding you. Aspects that I thought important were,

1. Speak logically - I think this is 'the most' important part of all. A little trick that a lot of you would already know is 'Situation-Complication-Resolution'. For instance, say if the partner asks you "tell me about a time you had to coach someone". Instead of jumping into details, layout the situation, address the complication that someone you had to coach was facing at the time, and how you reacted that led to certain outcome(resolution)

2. Presence - Professional service firms work with clients all the time. So one of the things that partners surely look for will be "if I left this candidate alone with the client, would this person be able to manage the situation with professional manner?". Basically look sharp (posh up), try to speak in professinal manner (gestures, facial expressions etc.)

3. Show off - This may be misleading, but try to pour out everything you've got. Not saying to look like a know-it-all, but show your enthusiasm and knowledge on the line of service that you are applying for. Remember that this is the last chance for you to show that you are the one for them.

I wish everyone the best of luck!

Hi Robienoor! I

I am having my AC in London, for Financial Advisory, on the 14th. Could you provide me any extra details on the process, as well as tips and advices? I am particularly worried with the written report part.. What was yours about? Did you have your partner interview already?

Thanks for the insight!

@ PT_LSU

Hello,

The format of th AC is Written report > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement. Numerical + Logical / Group Assement because the group assesment happened in two groups and so one group stays and does the tests and the other goes to the group assesment. With regards to the written report all I can really tell you is that it is extremley time pressured. The content is not difficult, the topic I had was finding the best way to convince big corporations to be more efficient in their water spending. Theres nothing really to worry about the report, just ensure that you have a good solid format and that you sound slightly proffesional in your writing.

I haven't actually been scheduled a parter interview yet. I have passed the AC and but was told that there are very few vacancies left and that at present application volume seems to be unmanageble for them; so I'm pretty suprised their still running ACs. But none the less just relax and I'm sure your ability will be refelcted throughout the day.

Best of Luck

@ PT_LSU

Hello,

The format of th AC is Written report > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement. Numerical + Logical / Group Assement because the group assesment happened in two groups and so one group stays and does the tests and the other goes to the group assesment. With regards to the written report all I can really tell you is that it is extremley time pressured. The content is not difficult, the topic I had was finding the best way to convince big corporations to be more efficient in their water spending. Theres nothing really to worry about the report, just ensure that you have a good solid format and that you sound slightly proffesional in your writing.

I haven't actually been scheduled a parter interview yet. I have passed the AC and but was told that there are very few vacancies left and that at present application volume seems to be unmanageble for them; so I'm pretty suprised their still running ACs. But none the less just relax and I'm sure your ability will be refelcted throughout the day.

Best of Luck

@ PT_LSU

Hello,

The format of th AC is Written report > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement > Numerical + Logical / Group Assement. Numerical + Logical / Group Assement because the group assesment happened in two groups and so one group stays and does the tests and the other goes to the group assesment. With regards to the written report all I can really tell you is that it is extremley time pressured. The content is not difficult, the topic I had was finding the best way to convince big corporations to be more efficient in their water spending. Theres nothing really to worry about the report, just ensure that you have a good solid format and that you sound slightly proffesional in your writing.

I haven't actually been scheduled a parter interview yet. I have passed the AC and but was told that there are very few vacancies left and that at present application volume seems to be unmanageble for them; so I'm pretty suprised their still running ACs. But none the less just relax and I'm sure your ability will be refelcted throughout the day.

Best of Luck

@PT_LSU what section of FA are you applying to? I've heard most is full :S

@robbienoor what sector are you applying to?

I applied for Corporate Finance, M&A

Grad or intern?

Grad or intern?

Hey guys!

Robienoor, thank you for the information!!

I started my recruitment process several months ago and I was supposed to have had the AC much sooner than February. Unfortunately that wasn't possible. I am aware that almost no vacancies are available but I intend to go through the process ASAP. Then - hoping that I'll succeed - worst case scenario, I'll defer my application to 2013. It would be great if they expanded the number of vacancies for 2012!! Fingers crossed!! I applied for Valuations.

Hello everyone,

Really useful info above, thanks!

Quick question - how long after your first round phone interview did you wait before receiving feedback whether you're successful (or not)? I read above that several candidates heard either the same day or the following day...

Thanks!