KPMG First Year Insight Review

The insight provided great exposure to life at KPMG as an employee. Throughout the insight, we were encouraged to explore opportunities through discourse with current employees whilst hearing from a wide range of staff on their jobs and backgrounds. Overall, the insight was a great opportunity and something which I relished.

Whilst at KPMG on the insight, there is no doubt whatsoever that the firm values you. From the second you enter the building to the second to leave, KPMG are there to guide the way. On the first evening, we were given the opportunity to network with colleagues, over a drink, where you could discuss, in detail, particular areas of the business to see whether or not it was something you were interested in. The amount of effort, time and work that had been put into the planning of the insight was clear and there was no doubt that I felt valued whilst spending my time there.

During the insight, support and guidance was provided throughout. From the original application were we were provided with a KPMG contact through to the minute you left the KPMG site after the insight, staff were always on hand to assist, if required.

For the second half of the insight, we were given the opportunity to take part in a business challenge. This challenge, which took the form of a case study exercise, completed in groups with a presentation at the end, enabled me to further develop my skills. Everything from the ability to analytically present information through to ability to work effectively in teams were just a few skills that were developed. Also throughout the insight, we were given presentations on specific skills such as networking to personal branding.

The structure of the insight was faultless and from the very start of day one through the end of day two had been structured perfectly. For every minute of every hour, KPMG knew exactly what we were supposed to be doing and this was effectively executed.

The general atmosphere of the placement was extremely positive and upbeat. The tone of the atmosphere was set by the staff from when you met them for breakfast on the first day, but the people on the insight were also great! The happy, friendly and generally positive atmosphere is one which is clearly fostered throughout the company and is something which I cannot fault.

KPMG were extremely good in investing both time and money into the programme. At times, I felt that KPMG tried to control cost when it came to expenses instead of providing what was best for the students. For example, KPMG would pay for overnight accommodation and instead expected students to commute each day. With regards to personal training and development, KPMG were extremely good in investing time with us to make sure we achieved the very best from the programme.

Whilst the insight was mainly a classroom based programme, a variety of KPMG employees spoke, at length, about their experiences and what it was like to work at the firm. KPMG could have possibly included an opportunity to shadow an employee into the programme, but this is both costly with regards to time.

KPMG were extremely good at conveying the company culture during the insight. From walking in the door, the company culture was clear and it was also clear to see, from all of their staff, what it is like working for the company. The opportunity to network with colleagues as well as hear their own personal experiences provided a great opportunity to understand the culture.

The content of the two day insight programme was brilliant. I was able to effectively see what part of the business I would like to work in as well as gaining an insight into all particular functions so to possibly change my opinion. Throughout the insight, I was effectively able to see my career path at KPMG and through explanation, from employees, I now know what a career at KPMG could look like.

If KPMG are looking to improve the event, they could seek to reimburse students, who travel far, for overnight accommodation as commutes of up to three hours are not always pleasant.

At the end of the first day, there was a 2 hour networking opportunity with colleagues within the business. This allows us to meet to discuss many areas of the business and understand what it is actually like to work for KPMG.

Described above.

From speaking to the staff that currently work at KPMG, you are able to get a feel for the opportuntites which are avaiable outside work from fitness sessions to football.

This insight was extremely good and I would have no objection recommending the insight to a friend.