Accounting firms????????

Question

Anyone working in big 4 (pwc, kpmg)?

how did u get the job?(by reference, by ur own)?

how hard is it to get a trainee job in accounting firm?

what additional skills do u need to get into accounting firms?

i m not good in interpersonal skills? can i still get into in although i have good accounting knowledge

Answer 1

Based on your question and the information you have supplied I would not hold out on getting a job at any accountancy firm let alone the Big4!  If this is the route you seriously want to go down then now is the time you should be putting in the effort. If accountancy and numbers excite and interest you take a course in basic bookkeeping to get you started, apply to the civil service in Revenue, if you are lucky enough to get in they will pay for your exams etc.  If not, then you must be prepared to work for the most basic pay for at least the next 5 years while you complete your training.  Accountancy is a highly demanding, mentally challenging field and you should only consider it IF you have the commitment, drive and ambition to see it through - otherwise, I'm sorry to say but forget about it! Dedicated individuals succeedl!! Go forth if you have the drive!

Answer 2

Some people get in through a recommendation from an existing colleague however this does not bypass the normal recruitment process nor allow shortcomings to be ignored.

Competition for places is stiff though not impossible but what often swings it is some good work experience or a placement/internship.

You should be true to yourself about where your strengths lie. The nature of the job requires STRONG interpersonal skills particularly to progress. The notion that accounting firms allow some people to sit in number crunching roles without having to interact couldnt be further from the truth. Infact I would say it would not be a pleasant place nor would you last long if you did not have good interpersonal skills. However if you have the determination to prove yourself in this area and take advantage of the courses and opportunities in self development available then there is no reason why you should not try. If you feel unable to overcome these issues then you should not go in that direction.

As someone with over 10yrs experience in this field I would encourage you to be honest with yourself about where your strengths are and expolit them. Do not go into something you feel just because it pays well - you will reach a ceiling if you have weaknesses which are prerequisites for the job.

Good luck!