Application process for Associate Consultant at Ernst & Young

Online application

The online application was fairly straightforward and easy to understand. Submitting your CV is required, but a cover letter is optional. I would recommend submitting a cover letter. You may be asked as to why you chose to apply for this company and this position.

How to respond for success

Read the job description in detail and assess the key words and requirements mentioned. Tailor your CV by using the key words and match them to personal experiences. I recommend applying a minimalistic approach when creating the CV and avoiding any complex structures and wordings. My cover letter was very specific to the position applied, and focused on my personal skill set and experiences that can help me contribute to the role.

Expect a 2-4 day wait before advancing to the next stage.

Psychometric Tests

There are as many as four tests, that can be taken in any order and after each the progress will be saved so you can pick it up later if needed. The online assessments can take around 1 - 2 hours to complete in total. Of the four tests, which are mostly multiple choice, areas such as situational judgement, decision making, graphical analysis, mathematical questions and grammatical reviews are covered. Personally I would suggest completing this stage in one sitting. Consider taking the test at a good time in a good setting where you are able to focus on the task. A calculator and a notepad might come in handy.

Example

Graphical questions: These require good data analysis skills, and the ability to interpret performance metrics.

Mathematical questions: Basic Accounting knowledge and basic maths skills such as ratios and percentages.

Situational Judgement questions: Questions regarding teamwork, ethics and integrity.

How to respond for success

There are various platforms out there, such as 'JobTestPrep' which help prepare you for these tests. Its all about practicing, and becoming familiar with the settings so you can remain calm under pressure

Expect up to a 1 week wait before advancing to the next stage.

Final interview

The final stage was an online interview. Expect an email invitation around 1 week prior, explaining the structure and duration. The interview is an hour long, usually conducted by senior employees from the same department. My preparation consisted of: 

    • Understanding the role and the requirements
    • Researching the industry and company
    • Connecting with individuals from the industry using online platforms such as LinkedIn
    • Brushing up on interview etiquette

Example

Expect situational judgement type questions about topics such as conflict management, teamwork, communication. The interview covered personal experiences and skills that were used in the past to address various situations. Questions were also asked about our understanding of the role and industry.

How to respond for success

When responding to situational questions, use all previous experiences that can relate to that specific situation. If you are a student. This can include experiences from group work and university. Address your previous mistakes and what you learned from them. There is no expectation to be perfect. If you didn't understand a certain aspect of the role you can always ask the interviewer to provide clarity. A suit is not mandatory, although formal attire would be recommended.

Expect around a 2 week wait before receiving a call offering you a position.
Full process available
You'll get a detailed description of the final stages of this application
Full process available
You'll get first hand advice about habits for success and work culture.

Final interview

The final stage was an online interview. Expect an email invitation around 1 week prior, explaining the structure and duration. The interview is an hour long, usually conducted by senior employees from the same department. My preparation consisted of: 

    • Understanding the role and the requirements
    • Researching the industry and company
    • Connecting with individuals from the industry using online platforms such as LinkedIn
    • Brushing up on interview etiquette

Example

Expect situational judgement type questions about topics such as conflict management, teamwork, communication. The interview covered personal experiences and skills that were used in the past to address various situations. Questions were also asked about our understanding of the role and industry.

How to respond for success

When responding to situational questions, use all previous experiences that can relate to that specific situation. If you are a student. This can include experiences from group work and university. Address your previous mistakes and what you learned from them. There is no expectation to be perfect. If you didn't understand a certain aspect of the role you can always ask the interviewer to provide clarity. A suit is not mandatory, although formal attire would be recommended.

Expect around a 2 week wait before receiving a call offering you a position.
Full process available
You'll get a detailed description of the final stages of this application
Full advice available
You'll get first hand advice about habits for success and work culture.
Application Stages
Day in the life
3
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