Insight Programme Participant Review

The part of the insight programme that gave an in-depth introduction to the career pathways within the divisions of the company was interesting, but the most enjoyable part was the group task that allowed us to have an idea of the kind of skills needed to excel within this field.

The company made an especial effort to welcome the participants of the programme, placing special emphasis on allowing them access to working professionals (and not just HR staff) in that field.

The most insightful part of the programme was the portion on the sharing by assurance and tax professionals on the challenges they face in their programme, which offered real input into achieving the objectives of the programme.

The information received was useful insofar as job entry requirements were concerned. The explanation of the ACA and clarification that a degree in accounting was not a requisite to enter the job were particularly helpful.

The insight programme provided sufficient background knowledge for the group task to be done. Rather than structuring the insight programme as a trial, participants were constantly briefed on the programme for the day, which added to the organisation of the programme.

As expected of an insight programme, the atmosphere was tense at the beginning but eased up towards the end. The HR staff played an important part in easing this tension.

Personal training and development were not the key emphasis of this programme, as that is usually reserved for the summer internship. Rather, this programme was seen as one meant to generate interest in the firm and its activities.

Bringing in full-time staff and explaining briefly the roles that each department and division plays was particularly useful in providing this understanding.

The company culture was presented at its best during the programme, as expected of a HR-planned event. However, the best and perhaps only way of understanding a company culture is by actually working within it.

Though the content did not significantly affect my current inclinations on my future career path as this was not one of my objectives of attending the programme, I believe it positively influenced other participants in this regard.

Reimbursed expenses

Yes, networking and meeting other employees was a large part of the programme.

The staff were very forthcoming with their experiences and this greatly contributed to the experience.

There was mention of non-work activities but this was not the emphasis.

Yes, but only if this friend is interested in assurance or tax as these fields are relatively specialised.