Insight Day Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the Insight day I attended on Friday 8 February. There was a range of activities throughout the day which made it interesting. My favourite activity of the day was the networking lunch where I got the chance to communicate with one of the trainees. I also enjoyed the presentation from members of staff as they were very informative and the quiz at the end was a great way to finish off the session.

I was pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of all the staff at BDO, including the reception staff, who kindly hung up my coat and escourted me to where I had to be. They made me feel very welcome and valued and improved the quality of the experience. Ilook forward to possibly meeting some of the lovely staff members again.

Throughout the day, there was always a member of staff present who would be happy to answer any questions that I had. I found the networking lunch especially informative because I got the chance to speak with one of the trainees who offered a lot of guidance and tips into how to apply and what it’s like working at BDO.

I learnt about PEST analysis which was a new concept that I had not come across before and could be helpful in the future if I succeed in receiving an accountancy/business apprenticeship. Furthermore, I was able to meet and work with people who I haven’t met before which allowed me to develop my team working and communication skills. These are useful skills for studying for a degree and in the workplace.

There was a strict timetable outlining all the activities and timings throughout the day which was kept to on the most part. Also, there was always something to do whether it was working on our pest analysis’ or listening to presentations from staff. Additionally, the insight day covered a good variety of topics which were all very useful.

The general atmosphere was great. Everyone who attended was very friendly and all the staff created a good atmosphere which their enthusiasm for their job and the company. Also, there was not a dull activity which helped keep the general atmosphere good. Finally, the quiz at the end really helped boost the overall atmosphere as it was a fun way to end the day.

There was a range of skills which allowed for the development for a lot of skills which helped my personal development. For example, the PEST analysis was an activity which was new to me which gave me the opportunity to develop my analytical skills. Overall, I feel that BDO invested in me a fair amount by allowing me to develop many skills.

The day was very helpful in introducing all their departments and giving an overview of each one. The trainee that I spoke with at the networking lunch gave a very good insight into her role in the company and the kinds of things that she does on a day-to-day basis. However, to improve I would like to be shown an example of a few tasks which are completed in the role.

One of the first things that we looked at was the core values of the company which really highlighted to me how important these values are to the culture of the company. For example, the value of ‘mutual respect and support’ allowed me to see how the company’s culture is built on support anyone and everyone possible.

The presentations made by the members of staff from different departments gave me an insight into what each role entailed. This was very helpful as it allowed me to narrow down the area that I would most like to focus on which aided me in decided on my future career path. It also solidified my interest in accounting.

I was not paid or reimbursed any expenses from the experience. However, there was a free lunch which I enjoyed and I only had a short way to travel so there was not much expenditure involved, so this was not a problem for me and did not deduct value from the experience.

Yes, there were many opportunities throughout the day. A handful of the activities were based around meeting and communicating with employees of the company. For example, I met three members from different departments who gave presentations. Also, there were four trainees that I had the opportunity to talk to at the networking lunch.

I found the networking lunch extremely helpful. It gave me a really good insight into what it’s like to work as an accountant and at BDO. Furthermore, I now have greater understanding of the culture of the company, what support is offered from everyone and what the application process is like.

Yes, there was some mention of a range of activities such as meals at Nando’s and Chiquito. Although there was not mention of any other activities.

Yes, definitely. The Insight day was very informative and answered many questions that I had. It also helped me decide on the department that I would most like to work in. Furthermore, it allowed me to see what a lovely place BDO is and how friendly all the staff are.