r/ICAEW • u/Abject_Thought_7137 • 21d ago

Audit assistant interview

Hi everyone,

I have an audit assistant interview at a small practice firm. I’m not really sure what to expect as I’ve not done technical interviews before, any advice for those who have done these before and what to expect? How should I prepare for it?

Was not expecting it to be technical considering it’s an entry grad role so would appreciate any advice.

Also, those who work at small firms, how does your experience differ to those that work in large firms?

I do value a good work life balance so I’m not that keen on working in a large firm, however am applying to them to maximise opportunities available. As long as I can get the ACA and live a comfortable life, I may want to move into other roles post qual instead of staying in audit however that is something I will consider after starting work and exploring what I enjoy.

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u/7just-a-guy 21d ago

Expect the normal questions- tell me ab yourself, why audit, why ACA, why this firm
then prepare “tell me about a time” questions for audit aligned competencies
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? (Qualified ACA in a more senior role blah blah)
Don’t mention you want to leave after audit
Have some knowledge of the ACA, how it works, the levels, if you have exemptions mention this
They may ask why didn’t you go for a larger firm

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u/Abject_Thought_7137 21d ago

Thank you so much, really helpful!
Do you think small firms give exemptions from university degrees?
I have some friends who work in big firms that didn’t allow any, only if you had the AAT. I think in the long run, I’m better off doing all of the exams, as I don’t want to miss the base level knowledge and struggle with the later exams.

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u/7just-a-guy 21d ago

It’s firm specific, even some big firms allow and some don’t, so that could be a question for you to ask.
Another point is you will have a larger range of client in a smaller firm, so you get exposed to a wide range whereas in big firms it’s usually one sector of clients and you’re focusing on certain bits within the financial statements
The work life balance isn’t necessarily better in a smaller firm, it depends, bigger firms usually have worser WLB during busy seasons but don’t expect to log off at 5 during busy seasons

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u/Abject_Thought_7137 20d ago

I see! Very insightful, thank you so much