Associate Review

I work as part of an audit team in an Associate role testing balances on the trial balances (mainly balance sheet in the first year, branching out to the rest of the trial balance the higher up in the programme I go and the more experience I gain), sending and chasing bank letters, tying in balances to stats, casting stats, interacting and communicating with clients to ensure they understand exactly what you need from them as well as developing relationships with clients.

I feel as though I have learnt an immense amount. I started out knowing absolutely nothing about how to go about auditing a file and I now feel competent and have even taken on auditing an entire file by myself. I have completed PS1 and PS2 and am about to do PS3. I have done countless e learning exercises and have completed and passed 4 exams so far.

It is hard work! But it is definitely worth it. The things you learn and the professional people you get to interact with on a daily basis are invaluable. The nature of the business also allows you to work with a number of different teams as each client you work on will involve a different team, expanding your network and teaching you how to work with a number of different personalities.

The best form of recognition I have personally received is through the Limelight process. This makes you feel very valued and that the work you have completed was appreciated by the more senior members of the team. Being given more responsibility within the file, by being let to tackle a complete section or a complete company by yourself also adds to your self esteem.

The induction was great! As the scheme is relatively new I think there is still a bit of confusion around the progression as everyone is still learning. However, I do believe it is an amazing scheme and that all ideas are taken on board - which only makes the scheme grow and get better. I have found the buddy schemes especially to be very helpful!

I haven't felt as though I have needed too much support... yet. However, I know that there is always support available and I know that I have places to go and people to talk to should the situation arise.

My appraiser and the managers are all great and very approachable. If I ever have a problem I know I can go to any of them and they are more than happy to help in any way they can and will go out of their way for you.

The biggest problem with cost I have is travel. As I live a fair distance from the office, when I am unassigned this can be quite costly and eat away at my salary... which was already a fair amount less than the graduates in my first year.

There is a hockey team which I try and get involved in and I know of social events.. however, I am not aware of many more to be honest.

Yes

Great to work for! They work you hard, but they also reward you for it.

Do your research on Deloitte and the service line you are applying to - make sure you know what you are talking about and be confident! Important to know what else is happening in the world. Make sure you take every opportunity Deloitte offers and remember that if you don't ask - you definitely won't get because nothing is handed to you.