Analsyt Review

Analyst: day to day tasks vary dependent on the project I am assigned to. Currently they involve writing training materials for a training process which is to be rolled out across the country. Attending meetings to define the process we are training on, creating slide materials, hand out materials, training scripts.

Had to undergo an internal training course on my first project which taught me a lot about a specific sector of the financial services industry, as well as giving me skills in Quality Control and writing processes. Similar skills used in second project but for a different client, so different area of expertise required. Learnt a lot about process writing, training skills e.g. train the trainer, communication techniques etc.

The team I work with are fantastic, extremely sociable and put a lot of effort into promoting a positive working environment and team atmosphere. The work is challenging and I am constantly being given tasks that will help extend my skill set, while being suitable for the skills I already possess. The company really recognise hard work and are keen to make sure rewards are given for this hard work, and therefore it's a pleasure to work for them. I would love to work for them in the future as I have really enjoyed this gap year programme.

My line manager and I have built up a very strong relationship as she puts a lot of time into ensuring I am coping with the day-to-day tasks, feeling comfortable with my role, while never being bored or undervalued. There are a number of initiatives which have been launched by my team, e.g. star of the month and points systems which ensure that there is constant internal recognition. Not only is it an honour to receive these, but a pleasure to watch others receive recognition as well. I have been given an increasing level of responsibility since I joined, an aspect of Accenture which I have really appreciated, as it is clearly based on an increased level of trust in my abilities making me feel valued.

Induction week was a great ice breaker, followed by project training which helped me gain a greater level of understanding about my project as a whole, and the background behind it. The training modules provided on the Accenture portal also allow me to keep developing my skill set. I think the buddy system at Accenture is fantastic as it offers a much more personal level of support, and means there is always someone there to turn to if you need.

Regular training sessions have been held throughout my time at Accenture, some of which proved more valuable than others but overall they have been consistent and interesting. Guidance has always been on hand from my line manager, buddy and other Accenture employees. I have learnt more during day-to-day work than at actual organised training sessions I feel.

Huge amount of support from my manager on a day-to-day basis. The HR team have always been willing to answer any questions and have responded really quickly as well. My buddy has provided me with a huge amount of support throughout the project, I have been very lucky and she has inspired me to join the buddy system for future gap year placement students. No question has been regarded as a stupid question!

The salary has covered my living and travel costs well - living in London has proven a learning experience as I have found saving quite difficult, but learning to manage my own finances has been part of my gap year experience. The salary is adequate for this.

Huge number of company events, within different sectors, e.g. Capital Markets, financial services etc. Accenture also offer a number of different groups and socieities, e.g. sports teams, language societies, politics forums - some of which i have attended and had the chance to interact with other Accenture employees. My team was extremely sociable as well, an aspect to the project which definitely enhanced the working environment I was in.

Yes

Great work experience that gives you a perfect structure to your gap year, and exposes you to the working world before most people have the opportunity. Huge variety of projects and clients that allow you to specialise in different sectors, giving you a broad range of experiences. The people at the company are its greatest asset - I have not met one employee that I have found difficult to work with, or who has not been willing to help me and provide guidance in whatever way they can.

Prepare for the interview and assessment days as best you can by briefing yourself about the kind of work Accenture does, an understanding of their core principles, the extra work it does e.g. its support for IWD, Skills to Succeed etc. If you obtain the job, try and meet as many people as possible to create a key group of contacts who will prove invaluable to you later in working life.