Audit Gap Programme Review

The people at KPMG make it an enjoyable place to work. On every engagement I was on, I worked with interesting and friendly new people. The reason I didn't give a higher rating is because I felt during the placement, that audit really wasn't for me.

This varied from client to client as you work with separate teams. On some engagements I was regularly asked for my opinion on both client and firm processes and how they could be improved. On most engagements, I felt involved and valued but this all depends on the team you are in. Certainly, my experiences have mainly been positive. There were some occasions where you worked and left with nothing in between, but this was mainly down to how busy things were and the teams you were with.

At the beginning of my placement, I was assigned a buddy and performance manager, both of whom I could talk to if I had problems or needed any advice. But I realized early on that I hardly ever needed this because team members were so eager to help and provide guidance. I really appreciated the fact that they took time off their busy schedules to help and go through certain accounting principles that I hadn't come across.

During busy season (January-March) things were a lot more busy than usual. I was given a lot of work and kept extremely busy throughout this period. In addition, work hours increased but this depended on what client you were on. For me, the longest days I had were from 08:00-22:00, however I had friends on the same placement working beyond midnight regularly. Aside from busy season however, I was significantly less busy, and on many occasions sent emails out asking if I could help out with anything.

I was surprised at how much responsibility I was given at such a junior level. I was responsible (especially during busy season) for completing many different sections of the audit and going to clients with queries and requests. I didn't have to make coffee for anyone either (partly because I'd probably ruin it and have them spit it out all over their laptops). In all seriousness, this was probably one of the biggest plus points for me;being given a large amount of responsibility and the opportunity to learn various different business processes and principles.

For me the areas I developed most where communication skills, organisational skills, Excel/IT knowledge, Industry knowledge, efficiency and confidence. This placement really did improve so many skills and taught me an awful lot. The training I received was helpful but not very effective however this is because most of what you learn comes from on the job experience.

I personally only spent around 10%-20% of my time in the office. The atmosphere in the office is fairly relaxed and sociable. The offices are open plan so this makes it easier to communicate. Our department held regular social events, so everyone knew everyone and this improved the office atmosphere.

During my placement, I was nearly always booked onto a client. I never experienced any issues and felt like a normal employee at the company. During the placement I took part in volunteer work at an elderly care home, was involved in many department socials and gained a great deal of experience from the many clients I worked with.

In terms of training, we were allocated a week at the start of the placement. This involved icebreakers and a basic introduction into accounting/audit. In addition, we were asked to complete various online courses teaching different parts of audit. Personally, I learnt the most from being on the job rather than from training.

As I stated earlier, although the placement was great I personally don't feel that audit is for me. However, this placement certainly improves employment prospects within the company. The contacts and knowledge you gain through your time would definitely be a large plus to anyone's application to KPMG.

There was an extremely good social scene amongst both fellow students and department colleagues. There were many social and sporting events held throughout my placement.

Cost wasn't actually too bad seeing as I was living in London. The company reimbursed travel and food costs if you were away from the office (which I regularly was). The cost of socialising (i.e restaurants, pubs and clubs) was expensive depending on the area of London you were in but I guess that is expected.

There was always a lot to do and many events taking place.

KPMG provides many opportunities for employees to take part in activities outside of work. This includes taking part in volunteering activities, sports events, being part of plays, visiting art exhibitions etc.