We recently caught up with Valentina about how they secured an Audit Trainee role with BDO, their top tips for the application process and how they face tough interview questions.
What stood out to you about BDO?
One thing I feel is really important is a company’s culture. The way a company includes people within its workforce, help us become better and progress our career. For me, BDO really stood out as a firm that champions this. Throughout the application process, they would regularly touch upon culture, how they improve their employees and more; and that really attracted me to the firm.
How did you build your commercial awareness before the interview?
I found Bright Network really useful in discovering information surrounding different industries. Being able to discuss information with employees at firms and build a bigger picture on what work you’d be doing at the firm, as well as what work the firm was doing currently. I also found LinkedIn great, as you’d be able to find company updates regularly to help build that commercial awareness.
What would be your top tip to members going through the application process?
For me reaching out was really important. Building a network really helped me uncover information surrounding the firm, which in turn really helped me build my understanding of what was needed. Funnily enough, now having secured a role myself, I get quite a few messages from applicants needing insight.
How did Bright Network help you secure this role?
I took part in Internship Experience UK which really helped me understand a lot more about different industries. Being able to talk to firms’ employees, ask questions and learn business practices was very useful when it came to applying for roles. It was also nice to know I could reach out to people at Bright Network for additional support if I felt I needed it
What’s been the toughest interview question you've faced and how did you tackle it?
In my experience, the questions aren’t necessarily the concern, more so how you’ve effectively prepared for that stage of an application. Before going, be aware of your experiences, skills, projects in university and information surrounding the role or firm. That preparation can really put you at ease and provide you with the confidence you need for that situation.
What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Start applying in September. Apply early and get ahead of the group.
- Different cover letters for each application, really target the buzz words for each role/firm.
- Before the assessment centre/interview be really prepared, it’ll give you the confidence and assurance you need to do well.
Let us know where you've secured your work experience, internship or graduate role. We want to celebrate your success with a gift from us and exclusive invitations to evening networking drinks throughout the year.
