The savvy graduate's guide to researching accountancy jobs

Regurgitating an accountancy firm's mission statement won't get the graduate the job. You need to understand the firm, its competitors and its marketplace. And that's just for starters...

Finance recruiters cite lack of preparation and research as being the main problem in recruiting talented individuals. It’s not just the amount of preparation you do for a job interview that counts but doing the right type of research. The regurgitation of an organisation’s mission statement from their corporate website isn’t going to be enough – you have to show that you have fully understood not only the organisation but the marketplace it is operating in, the problems it faces and who its main competitors are.

Start with a structure

Start by putting some structure to your research. Key things to investigate include:
Background information. What does the company do (what are its products or services)? Where is it located? Who are its customers/clients? Where does it operate (key markets)? Who are its main competitors? Is the company expanding, downsizing, reaching out into new markets or pulling back its activities? Try to find out why.
Recruitment information. What recruitment process is followed? What degree background and key skills and competences are sought? How do your skills and experience match?
Company culture. What are the company’s core values? What does its brand promote? How does it like to see itself? How is it viewed externally? Based on the information you find, how do you view it and why does working for the employer appeal?

While candidates can over-rely on a company’s graduate website for information, it’s a good place to start your research.

Go beyond the website

You can then delve deeper and look at their corporate website for press releases, and financial and market information. University careers fairs and employer presentations provide a wealth of information and may give you the chance to talk to current employees and get a feel for the company culture. Your careers service may also have a database of alumni who can be contacted for information about working for your chosen employer. Other avenues for research include newspapers and finance-related websites.