.:Interview Process: Life is a Stage:.

      Alrighty, so you have your heart set on working for the Big Four (at least I do).  Well as the top four accounting firms not just in the nation, but worldwide, it is definitely not easy to land a job.  So what should you do?  Well here are some steps to help lead you along so you get a head start against all the other interviewees.  I also took these steps for some of my interviews (I'm still in the process of them so there's not much I can share with you guys X_X sorry).  But the following does help and they mainly pertain to people interviewing for the Big 4. (A/N: Insights have been given by spokespeople who came to represent their companies during open info sessions at the UCSD Career Services Center).

Practice Early

     For students, some firms start the interview process as early as sophomore year. By the time students are juniors and seniors in college, most likely the recruiters have already begun to recognize the candidates they potentially want, so if you start networking then you might already be a step behind.  Nevertheless, do not be discouraged and send in an application anyways.  (I just started sending in applications, but I know some of my friends already landed internships last year, so you better start early, you know the phrase: early bird gets the worms.  Yeah it's something like that).

First Impressions Count

     If you make the first cut, you'll be called for an on-campus interview. You'll be judged on appearance, so wear a dark suit with a conservative shirt. Men need a tie. No flip-flops, sneakers or ear piercings.  Arrive early, because showing up even a minute late reflects poorly on you—obviously, this is all very basic if you’re serious about getting the job that is.

     All four firms do behavioral interview questions which means they will ask you to give a scenario where there was a problem which you had to provide a solution for.  Most people will probably reflect on something they’ve accomplish in their past experiences, so now that you know this is a requirement start practicing!!

Making It to the Next Round

    Who gets cut first?  Individuals who show up dressed in inappropriate attire and those who are obviously just disinterested in the position (Duh…why are you there and screwing up the chance for someone else in the first place?)

    Be ready to talk about why you're interested in working for this particular company.  This is another basic technique.  You obviously want to do your homework before applying position because employers want to know that you are interested and know what you’re getting yourself into.

     Of course, don't be disappointed if you don't make the cut. Typically out of fifty interviewed students only 10-12 will make the cut to the second round of interviewing.  (Ouch, that’s a harsh reality, but hey keep your head held high.)  I'm not sure how many applied, but in my case only 12 people qualified for the first round of interviews recently at UCSD--I do not wish to disclose which firm.

 Meeting in Person

     The next round will include sequential behavioral interviews with three or more partners and managers, as well as criminal background and credit checks.

At this point, interview questions are aimed at getting to know you and be prepared for lunch with other candidates and last year's hires. While you're eating, you're still interviewing. During the meal, expect personal questions and watch your manners, LoL.

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Hopefully this blog has given you the understanding you need to interview for any of the Big Four.  To summarize, the Big Four will pick candidates to interview at various college campuses they visit.  You will be expected to go through between two-three interview rounds, depending on how they decide to structure their interview process.  If you make it to the final round they will invite you to a classy dinner in order to assess your business etiquette and social skills to see how well you can present yourself and get out of your own comfort zone.  This is why you should watch the videos to get a bigger confidence boost.  Good luck!!