[Anonymous]

I was referred by a partner for an audit position with a midsize-large firm, now I have my first interview with the following people:

Managing partner

Tax Partner

Audit Partner

Audit Director

All my other interviews so far were with the HR lady.

What should I expect? Do’s and Dont’s? Suggestions?

[Anonymous]

I don't have any suggestions because public is very different than industry, but I wanted to comment because I like the title. “big boy interview” Hahaha. Good luck!

[soyanks]

You go in with the following:

1) Know your resume

2) Have a story ready to explain why you chose accounting as your major. Don't be lame

3) Be ready to explain your work ethic, your passion, your attribute as a good co-worker and how you can be an asset

4) Have 2-3 questions ready for each interviewer (same questions can be used for all 4 interviewers). Listen to your interviewer during the interview and tailor a question or two based on the conversation. Just avoid a typical cliche question that anyone can ask

5) Most importantly, have a list of 5-7 things that you want to communicate to the interviewer before the interview is over and make sure those things are communicated at some point during the interview

6) Have a strong closing pitch. Interviews should be memorable. Having a strong closing pitch that will leave a strong impression on your interviewer will lead to an offer

FAR - 86
REG - 85
BEC - 90
AUD - 84

[Anonymous]

@soyanks. Thank you very much that is gold!

[Anonymous]

soyanks hit the nail on the head.

I'd just like to add that you should be prepared to answer “why our firm” or “why our firm vs Big 4”, or any other general questions about the firm. It helps to know the firm's markets/clients or any news.

Also, don't self deprecate yourself (if you the type to do so). It's endearing to some, but doesn't come across the same way to people that don't know you very well. A good interviewee is confident in their accomplishments and qualifications, but humble about where they got to where they are. I'd guess you could call it a big humble brag.

[Anonymous]

Be prepared for behavioral questions – ones that ask you to provide a story or an instance. I had a list of potential questions and brainstormed possible scenarios I could talk about for each one. It helped me feel more prepared and less caught off guard during the big day.

Also definitely prepare different questions for each rank of individual, but don't be bummed if you don't get around to them. Each interview takes on a different vibe and you may get so caught up in great conversation that your time is up before you have the chance to ask! You can ask them in your thank you email anyway.

[Anonymous]

I'm gonna prepare by calling the receptionist. What types of questions would you ask a receptionist?

[Tripp11]

The receptionist? She's only going to know how to answer the phones and say something like, “Thank you for calling Ernst Young, how may I direct your call?” I wouldn't ask the receptionist anything, because if you do, you'll be the talk in the break room.

AUD - 93
BEC - 80
REG - 86
FAR - 83

[wombataholic]

Don't forget to wear pants. Unless you want to really make it a memorable interview. Then don't wear pants.

AUD - 91
BEC - 85
FAR - 91
REG - 92

CPA, CFE
Passed all 4 CPA exam sections with Ninja Notes/MCQ/Audio

Licensed CPA
Passed each section on the first try with Ninja Notes/MCQ/Audio

[klmc]

Don't get sweaty hands, walk in there like you already work there but still be professional, everything else will fall in place. Make sure you are always smiling and don't be so serious have fun with it!

|FAR| - 72, 83
|AUD| - 73, 76
|REG| - 76
|BEC| - 73, 82

ALL DONE!!

[leglock]

good info posted here, saved.

[hasy]

soyanks, love your input. I'm in the same boat too but there's a lunch involved and 2 add'l interviewers.

AUD - 83
BEC - 80
FAR - 83
REG - 78

BEC - 80 (Roger + NINJA MCQ + WTB)

FAR - 72; 83 (Roger + NINJA MCQ)

AUD - 83 (Roger + NINJA MCQ + WTB)

REG - 52; 78 (Roger + NINJA MCQ)

Ethics - 68, 96 (how I dislike you)
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This forum is more addictive than drugs. Still returning after licensure.

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved - Helen Keller

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BEC 80 (10/23/15)
FAR 72 (4/2/15); 83 (7/11/16)
REG 52 (4/28/15)
AUD (9/9/16)

Roger + NINJA MCQ + WTB

[Author]

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