5 Reasons Why you should consider a career in a “Big 4" — Bukola George
Congratulations on your graduation! I am sure you are currently exploring various job vacancies with the hope that at least one will "click".You are probably writing one aptitude test or the other, attending assessment centres, interviews etc. It is tring, I know but I want you to be intentional and strategic in your pursuit.
Do not settle for just anything available, (I understand the pressure you might be facing) but be sure you are aiming for an organisation that provides great learning experiences which is very crucial at this stage. In addition, look out for organisations that provide professional development opportunities and career growth.
If you are considering a career in a "Big 4" (which I strongly recommend), these are top 5 things you should know:
1. Thorough recruitment process: To land a job in a "Big 4" you must be well prepared. You must be smart, confident, possess good communication skills and be self-driven, Practice a lot of past aptitude test questions, business writing, interviewing skills, presentation skills and so on. Thoroughly research the various service lines and engage individuals who work or have worked in the Firm, this will set you apart.
2. Well-groomed professional: Working in a "Big 4" will shape you, not only from an intellectual perspective but also behaviourally. You will meet and work with incredibly smart/intelligent people, from whom you will pick up professional work ethics, that will stay with you throughout your career journey. Some may even become mentors, long after you have left the Firm. You will learn how to engage clients confidently, dress professionally, communicate effectively (verbal and written) and manage multi-stakeholders.
3. Great learning opportunities: Big 4 Organisations serve clients in multi-sectors and industries and this means that you will be spending time helping these clients solve their problems using established tools and methodologies. Trust me, the experience and exposure is second to none. Just when you think you have experienced it all, a new complex problem to solve for a client arises and you are challenged to think outside the box, research and bring up viable solutions. This will not only stretch you mentally, but it deepens your knowledge of the business world before you commit to a long-term career.
4. International opportunities: One of the great benefits of working in a "Big 4" Firm is the opportunity of international exposure. Being a global Firm, you get to work and collaborate with teams and individuals on various projects and client engagements. You may also get the opportunity to go on secondment or a mobility assignment. Basically, this means that you get to work in another office within the global network (outside your primary location) for a temporary period. This is one of the major highlights of building a career in the "Big 4".
5. Meaningful work and Work-life balance: No doubt, you will do meaningful and purposeful work, which gives you a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction. But with these exciting challenges, comes long working hours (can be from 7am to 2am), reduced sleep-hours, no social life, no time for family and so on. This is due to ever increasing demands from clients, your team leaders and other stakeholders. No jokes guys, you need to be passionate and committed to serving your clients with a "just get it done" attitude to survive in a "Big 4" environment. It is not always glamorous, but your career will thank you for the sacrifices later in future.
I wish you the very best and successful career journey to you all!
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Bukola is an experienced HR Professional. She bagged her MBA from the University of Lagos and has several certifications relevant to her industry. A very calm & collected thoroughbred professional to the core, she currently works in one of the “Big 4s”- Deloitte.
In her spare time, you can catch Bukola humming or listening to good music. She has the voice of a bird and uses it beautifully. She shares 5 tips for grads with eyes for the “Big 4"
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