How to Get a Job at a Big Four Firm

Introduction

• Presenter: Emily Nastroza
• Background: Recently graduated from the University of Southern California
• Objective: Provide advice and knowledge on how to land a job at a Big Four firm
• Video Structure: Preparation, Recruitment Process, Application and Interview Process

Preparation

1. Recruiting Timelines

• Main Recruiting Season: Fall Semester
  • Scope: Internships and full-time programs
• Spring Semester: Focuses on Summer Leadership Programs (SLP) and Diversity Internship Programs
• Missed Opportunity: Firms also recruit in the Spring

2. GPA

• Recommended GPA: 3.3 and above
• Exceptions: Students with lower GPAs can balance it with relevant experience, skills, and involvement

3. Relevant Experience

• Importance: Beneficial but not necessary
• Key Skills: Leadership, teamwork, communication, analytical abilities, problem-solving

4. Campus Involvement

• Well-rounded Candidates: Preferred by Big Four
• Not Quantity but Quality: Focus on roles and leadership rather than the number of clubs
• Highlight Soft Skills: Essential for the job

5. Research the Company

• Methods: Talk to interns, new hires, and professionals
• Things to Know: Company culture, job roles, different practices and groups
• Goal: Identify which group, industry, and firm is the best fit

Recruitment Process

1. Be Present

• Consistency: Attend as many events as possible
• Arrive Early: 10-15 minutes before events start
• Networking: Meet, talk, and ask questions

2. Build Valuable Connections

• Initiative: Reach out to people, show eagerness
• Genuine Relationships: Foster meaningful connections
• Targeted Networking: Build strong relationships in desired job roles
• Human Touch: Professionals are also looking for people they can work well with

3. Follow-Up

• Contact Information: Take down names, emails, business cards
• Follow-Up Method: Connect on LinkedIn, send DMs or emails
• Purpose: Maintain relationship and stay memorable

Application and Interview Process

1. Application Deadlines

• Timeliness: Submit your application on time
• Common Deadline: Usually the same for all Big Four firms

2. Resume

• Content: Keep it short, sweet, and relevant
• Resource: Emily's video on resume writing
• Follow-Up: If no response after a week, reach out to the recruiter

3. Cover Letters

• Content: Who you are, relevant skills and experiences, why the company
• Optional but Beneficial: Even if optional, it’s good to include
• Name Drop: If you've built relationships with professionals, mention them

4. Interview Process

• Roles in Audit or Tax: Mainly behavioral questions
• Roles in Consulting: Mix of behavioral and case interview questions
• Freshman or Diversity Internship Programs: Only behavioral questions

Conclusion

• Q&A: Encourage comments for questions
• Engagement: Thumbs up if the video is enjoyed, subscribe for more content around post-grad life, college and career advice
• Notifications: Hit the bell button for updates

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