Accounting and Business Advisory Assistant Placement Review

My day-to-day involved working preparing accounts by myself and then talking through with the team where I was stuck. As I progressed through the year it also involved interacting with clients and client visits. I was involved in every part of the accounts process.

My excel skills have definitely improved. I would say the other main skill that I improved on is my professionalism - being treated like anyone else in the team means you develop all the skills needed to be a professional.

I was surprised by the amount of responsibilities you were given! The role shadowed all the work the grads were completing the only difference was they were off doing exams throughout the year whereas I didn't take any due to being a placement.

You are given a buddy at the start of the placement which is a great help and eases your nerves when you are starting. You have monthly catch ups with you line manager but they are happy to talk as often as you need to feel comfortable. The team being small also allows good relationships forming from the start and everyone is happy to help you with any issues you have.

The company was very friendly. The team was very welcoming and very social. They organise a lot of monthly activities and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with charity work through out the year.

I went into the year anxious that I would be surrounded by an older team and that my main responsibilities would be making the teas and coffees. This couldn't be further from the truth - you are given just as much responsibilities as the grad around you and if you perform well they are not shy of pushing you to complete harder work while still supporting you and making sure you weren't stressing.

Yes

Make sure you are prepared for the interview by understanding the company and it's values and bring questions to the assessment day. Applying for a placement can be an intimidating task but try be confident and show them why you deserve the job.