Trainee Tax Advisor Review

I am a trainee tax advisor in our private client team and each day I will complete differing bits of work for different clients - I don't think I've ever spent a whole day on just one job! I like this as it keeps it interesting. I'll be in direct contact with clients over the phone, email or in person meetings to discuss they're ongoing work which can be their tax returns, or other advice we are providing

I am studying for the ACA and CTA joint qualification so at the end of the 5 years I will be a chartered accountant and tax advisor. I have definitely grown many of my soft skills since working, including my ability to communicate clearly and professionally. I have learnt technical skills and information. One of the main thing is my confidence has sky rocketed as I become more comfortable and confident in my job role.

I really like my team I think they are really friendly and always genuinely care about me and my development. The culture of EY is people orientated - one of the things tis is shown through is their flexible working programme - I can work from home easily to fit around my needs and appointments etc.

I feel that I am highly valued in my team, as people take the time to say thank you for completing work or will tell you if you've done something particularly well. This is shown by EY's recognition awards programme whereby managers and above can reward you for good work (this is a point system tat we can trade for vouchers etc.).

The programme is a set 5 years for you to qualify with your exams and also to become time qualified. You have a rough idea of college/exam months a while before and these are confirmed a few months before starting. You get allocated college dates so you don't have to take holiday for this, but you may wish to take a day or more before the exam to study on your own.

Everyone has a buddy when they first join which helps you get settled in quickly and to ask all your questions to (even just how to work the printer!). We all have a counsellor as well who will guide us on career development as well as through bi-annual feedback and review processes. I like this and I think it works well.

Everyone has a buddy when they first join which helps you get settled in quickly and to ask all your questions to (even just how to work the printer!). We all have a counsellor as well who will guide us on career development as well as through bi-annual feedback and review processes. I like this and I think it works well.

Well - now I am in my 3rd year I am at the graduate starting salary of £28,500 in London, which at 20 years old I think is not bad. I can live on my own in a London House share, and I go on holiday like 5 times a year - I live comfortably everyday. Again, with the rewards programme I get quick a bit of vouchers to treat myself on clothes and other bits that doesn't come out of my wages (it's 'free' cash - and tax free).

Yes there's lots of network to join for sport and other activities. In the team we do quick a few social things together, such as lunches and after work drinks. I also got the opportunity to trek the Sahara for 7 days to raise money for the EY Foundation - a charity to support young people who are not in employment, education or training. It was an amazing experience for such a good cause!

Yes

I have really enjoyed my time so far at EY, I like working in a large company as I feel I am progressing quickly and have lots of resources and opportunities available to me.

Practice the reasoning tests before you do them - lots of free ones you can try on the internet. At the assessment centre make sure your ideas are communicated but don't be overbearing. You want to be a good team member as well as with smart ideas. Don't be afraid to state your strengths at the interview and definitely have examples to back up what you're saying - when have you shown you are a good team member or handled a difficult situation? Part time job during college? Difficult customer? Tell the interviewer if these experiences are relevant to the question.