Tax Associate Review

I work in corporation tax. I work in a team to assist clients to submit their tax returns. This involves preparing the returns and workings. I also assist on advisory pieces, which can vary largely in content. The role involves client communication, and working in a team to meet deadlines.

Yes, my teamwork skills have been developed massively through my day to day role. I had no accounting skills and limited maths skills prior to this role, and these have significantly improved. My presentation skills have been improved by practical application in the workplace. I am also more confident following my experience in the role.

The work is varied and I have felt supported by my peers throughout the training contract. The exams are difficult and require lots of hard work, but the college tuition is extremely helpful. Working among others on the same training contract is enjoyable, as well as others who have completed the same scheme.

It is well organised. With regards to exams, college dates are set far in advance, and you know when you will be out of office for exams. When you join, there is regular, structured training to assist your understanding of the role. There are team members who focus on your development.

You have different managers who you can contact and discuss your work with - having an assigned person makes it easier to discuss issues that you may be having. There are a number of people you can discuss this with. There are regular catch ups to try to identify any potential problems before they could become more serious.

First Intuition's teaching is high quality. The tuition and revision notes are comprehensive, and they're focused on the right areas to help pass the exams. The in-person teaching is very helpful, and they regularly check in to see if anyone has any problems that could be addressed by the team.

There are a number of exams which don't have any direct link to the role in tax. However, the tax focused exams are extremely helpful to my role, and broaden my knowledge in the area. The other exams, although not directly relevant, help increase my understanding of the industry.

Yes, there are regular social activities such as after work drinks. There are professional networking events periodically too. There is a social committee that organises proper post-work events for the team, which are enjoyable. There are a number of ways to get to know the people that you work with.

Yes

You feel supported throughout your completion of the training contract. You work alongside a team that take an active role in your development, and you can learn from their expertise. You learn quickly. I have felt supported throughout the exam process, which is extremely challenging, so this is highly important.

Be confident, and think about how your previous experiences and skills can be applied to the professional environment. Be able to demonstrate how you have worked in a team, as well as studied hard which is needed for the exams. Do your research, and don't put in a broad, generic application.