Paralegal Review

I found the day very informative and enjoyable. I enjoyed listening to the trainees talk about their daily activities and their experiences of the application process. This was followed by a business activity to give us an idea as to what to expect in an assessment centre. The afternoon session was based around hints and tips around the application and what BDO looks for.

I felt extremely valued. I initially signed up for the Manchester Office Insight day but was transferred to the Leeds one. BDO contacted me and were willing to reimburse my costs. This showed me that they value anyone who attends these sessions as future trainees.

There was always a member of staff available to help with any queries. There was sufficient guidance and support given as to what tasks needed to be undertaken.

I did not necessarily develop any skills, however, the commercial awareness talk really gave a good insight as to what to research and look into.

The day was very well structured. It began with a general talk about BDO as to who they are and their values. This was followed by trainees talking about their day-to-day activities and experiences. Next was a business task designed around a company of your choice and what you feel their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are. After lunch the afternoon was based on the application process and what BDO are looking for.

It was a very relaxed and calm atmosphere, which was reflective of the firms culture. The trainees were very down to earth and seemed to enjoy their job.

Not applicable.

Extremely helpful, the trainees talk regarding their roles was very helpful in understanding as to what I will expect.

Extremely. Although the firm is not one of the 'big four' the firm works with major clients in a more friendly and calm atmosphere. The trainees seemed to very normal people and had a good work life balance.

Extremely. I already came to the day knowing I wanted to get involved in tax and the day re-enforced my decision.

I was reimbursed for my travels.

This was the only part of the day that let me down. There were 4 tables and only 3 trainees (1 of which came during lunch). They tended to stay on one table and not move around and I felt some people on my table did not benefit from this.

Networking was done over lunch, but as stated above it could have been better.

Yes I spoke to the trainees as to what they get involved in after work. There seems to be a very good social atmosphere at work where all ideas are welcome.

Most definitely. Days like these give a very good insight (as the name suggests) as to what the firm is like, how they are different to their competitors and what their culture is like and whether you would fit into it.