A huge congratulations to Krishan for securing himself a graduate role at KPMG. Here he shares his experiences and offers some great advice for future applicants.
Why did you choose KPMG?
With KPMG you have the opportunity to work in a majority of countries around the world. When one of the KPMG representatives came to my University to give a company presentation, they were very welcoming and friendly; they said KPMG are ready to support you with your development - for instance if you wanted to work on a certain project or team within your division they are happy to assist you with this as long as you provide a business case of why this would benefit you. So it really is an organisation which cares about employee development and this is also shown by the fact that they provide a lot of opportunities to gain professional qualifications.
Why this role in particular?
Wanted a role where I had a direct responsibility in helping businesses and Strategy Consulting is that division. A lot of people usually apply to Audit, Management Consulting or Corporate Finace but I felt I wanted to do something a bit different. This role also offers the CIMA qualification and I wanted to make sure I’m qualified so that I can do my job well and have a solid foundation for my career.
What was the hardest part of the application process?
Quick and simple process. Application didn’t require a CV or cover letter (very unusual). You then get some psychometric tests which are similar to what other firms make you do. There is the Situational Judgment Test and if you passed that a Numerical and Verbal Reasoning Test. Once you pass these you have to submit a 120 sec Voice Submission and your application will then be reviewed. After this you will get an invite to the Assessment Centre (KPMG call this their launchpad). This is quite intense as it started at 8 and finished at 5pm. There are lots of activities including a partner presentation, 20-min interview, group exercise and written report. This was the most challenging part of the process but it was also enjoyable as there are lots of new people you meet (around 100 people attended the same AC as me).
Were you surprised by anything in the process?
How fast the process was, I applied on the day it opened and I got the offer around a month after - make sure to apply early.
Do you have three top tips for Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail - make sure you prepare yourself for the process. Practice the psychometric tests before the role has opened, meet people from KPMG using LinkedIn and then name drop them in the application or for your interview (of course ask them if they are fine with this) this will really help you to stand out
- Know your motivation for applying - if you are asking yourself why are you applying to this role and you can't think of anything, chances are you aren't motivated for that role. So make sure to learn about all available divisions there are within KPMG and then make an informed decision
- In the AC just relax and be yourself. KPMG is a very friendly company and they want people who are genuine.
