What was the interview process like?
At BDO you have a face to face interview with a Manager from the business area and the office you are applying to. They really want to get to know you as individuals. The people I met during the process confirmed BDO as the right fit for me.
How much responsibility were you given?
I was given a lot of responsibility. It was rewarding to be given client work and tasks that really added value. I was given the freedom to carry out the work, with appropriate help and support when needed from team members.
What advice would you give to someone applying for your role?
Research the company well when applying. When I did my interview there were a lot of questions around ‘why BDO?’ and the role I’d applied for. If someone is well-researched that will make them come across as more interested in the role rather than just wanting any job.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Learning the technical aspects of the work in the different areas of tax was a challenge (and still is), however sufficient training was given at the beginning of the internship centrally and within the department itself which was really helpful.
Where has your experience exceeded your expectations?
I was given a lot more responsibility than I had expected and I had good exposure to the different kinds of work within the department. Having not worked in an office before, it was a very good insight into the working environment of a professional services firm.
What do you most enjoy about your role?
I was exposed to a wide range of work activities such as attending meetings in the office and visiting clients on site. The social side was also enjoyable as all the interns in the country were given several opportunities to socialise together and share experiences during the programme.
Describe a situation where you have surpassed expectations?
During the internship I was involved in a project where I worked directly with one of the Partners. I had to learn quickly and meet tight deadlines but I had lots of support and gained invaluable experience. I received positive feedback on completion which gave me a sense of satisfaction.
What is the atmosphere like in your team?
The trainee group at BDO is very social – I work in a young department where events are organised and we all go out for drinks together regularly. The wider team are really friendly and supportive, you can be yourself and your opinions are valued even as an intern.
What were the activities outside of work?
There are a lot of social events and a number of sports teams. There is also a yearly football tournament, when all the BDO offices come together in one place for a five-a-side competition, featuring women’s and men’s teams. We go out for drinks afterwards. It’s nice to get everyone together in that way.
How promising are the graduate prospects?
It's important for trainees and newly-qualifieds to see that they can progress and that there’s a structured career path to follow – and I can definitely see those opportunities at BDO both within my department but also with a range of secondment opportunities to other offices, departments and even overseas.
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Other Case Studies from BDO
Stuart Gagen
Audit Trainee
Placement (10 Months+)
Stuart Gagen
Audit Trainee
Placement (10 Months+)