Consultant Review

Acting as if in the role of a full-time consultant, undertaking a variety of tasks producing documents for clients to help them with their change management. Attending numerous meetings on a weekly basis with senior members of the EY and client teams.

I have learnt to become more confident in approaching senior staff and undertaking complex pieces of work. My presentation skills have vastly improved, as I have an understanding of the need to deliver in a clear and concise manner. EY provides you with the opportunity to undertake a wide number of online courses in order to help you develop a range of skills; including, time management, the use of specialist software programs and how to develop presenations.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme. EY staff are all very friendly, from consultants to partners, each person is approachable and willing to help. In addition, they were flexible if there was any specific issues that you needed to raise. The programme itself challenged me to take on more responsibility and push me to improve, something which I regard as a key to enjoyment.

The appointment of a counsellor who is two levels above you, illustrates how valued you are, providing someone that is guiding your career on a regular basis. My manager was always seeking to ensure that I was enjoying my time on the project and giving me an opportunity to seek out challenges if I wished.

The programme is very well structure. Initially, you are provided with training, a partner shadowing and an experience in a working team. Then, in subsequent years, you are placed into a client project, working as a consultant for the benefit of that client. The counselling system is vital, as you meet your counsellor on a fortnightly basis in order to discuss your progress and set goals for the coming weeks. The people responsible for running the programme are efficient in responding to any queries, and always friendly and open.

Training, initially, is important as it gave us the opportunity to be familiar with the systems used and improve our skills on platforms that are essential to producing client work. Thereafter, there are a wide variety of courses, and online modules that you can undertake in order to improve skills that you believe are weaknesses.

My manager, counsellor and the HR team were all willing to help me on any occasion I required assistance. The appointment of a buddy, who represents a more informal relationship, enables a balance to be struck, so you can ask what may be regarded to some as 'silly' questions.

Living costs were previously paid for under the scheme; however, are no longer included (except in the first year of the scheme). Nonetheless, payment is still good, exceeding the costs of rent and general living costs within London. There are a wide number of social events that are fully paid for by the firm. Travel costs to, and from, London at the beginning and end of placement are reimbursed.

There are a vast number of opportunities, from general social events to a wide range of clubs on offer. EY regularly run CSR days, where all staff are taken out to help in the local community. In addition, there are clubs; including, sports, a women's group, and others, with a fully inclusive policy in all.

Yes

The scheme challenged me to improve, whilst providing me with 3 years worth of experience in the 'Big 4', working on a variety of projects that gave me first-hand experience to clients.

Be yourself. Don't attempt to be something you are not. Ensure you listen to what is being asked of you and that you speak when given the opportunity, as this is the only way people will know you have the right answers.