Professional Services Career Spotlight – Interviewed by Fullah Talks

I chose PPE as I wanted to study something broad and leave my career options open. PPE helped me to develop transferable skills, even if PPE did not provide me with knowledge applicable to my job. I analysed data as part of my econometrics course in Economics. In Politics, I applied political theories to the world around us in Politics. I also communicated ideas and answers to open-ended questions in Philosophy. I also participated in sports and university societies, which helped me become a rounded person. 

I applied for an internship with my current firm during my second year of university. At the end of the internship, a director interviewed me. I received an offer for the graduate programme a few days later, knowing that I had secured a job before starting final year.  I would recommend trying to secure an internship because it gives you a flavour of the work. It is as much about you trying out the company, as much as the company is trialling you. But, it is not the end of the world if you don’t secure an internship. In fact, the majority of people on my graduate programme did not do the internship. I love this and the fact that you showcase the benefits of doing an internship. I want to have this highlighted in the blog. 

The application process for an internship and a graduate programme is very similar. I completed online tests after submitting my application form. I also had a phone interview, followed by an assessment centre. The assessment centre involved group exercises and a report writing exercise. As my firm no longer does phone interviews, the assessment centre now also includes face-to-face interviews.

The application process was not easy, as I was applying for many internships at the same time. I applied for different types, including internships at management consultancies and investment banks. But the more applications I did, the more I improved, even if I wasn’t always successful – practice does make perfect. 

I did deal with a lot of rejection, both in the early stages and after final interviews. The important thing is to not let this dent your confidence, as each rejection is part of a learning process. Also, it does not necessarily mean that you are a weak candidate, but rather you might not be the best fit for the company. In hindsight, I’m very happy I did not go into banking because it would not have been a good fit for me. I was always very uncomfortable during my banking interviews. Whereas the interview I did for my current job was one of the most enjoyable interviews I ever had. 

My days and weeks vary depending on the type of project, and on the timing and frequency of my project deadlines. I am contracted to do 35 hours a week, which is 7 hours a day. On a normal week, I do 7-9 hours a day, but when work is more intense, I could be working 10-12 hour days to get the job done.

My days can involve many different tasks: meeting preparation, workshop facilitation, analysis of information, and report writing. I also spend some time on project admin, such as chasing clients or reviewing the project budget. I try to keep up with training that is available or help with pitches and proposals aimed at winning new client work. Now during lockdown, I  have more meetings and calls than ever before. I try to break up the day with virtual catch-ups to replace some of the office ‘water-cooler chats’ or coffees I usually have with colleagues.

My job is very people-orientated, and I enjoy working with people and the feeling of being part of a wider team. The people I work with are incredibly smart, and there is so much I can learn from them. Networking is also key. Relationships with different people at different levels in the organisation can be fulfilling in many ways. They can provide friendships or also potential mentoring or sponsorship relationships. Also, if you don’t know the answer to something (which happens more often than not), at least you might have someone in your network who does know and can help you.

There is a lot of variety in my client work – every time you start a new client, it’s almost like starting a new job. No client is the same, even if you are performing similar services for them. Also, with new clients, you’ll find yourself managing different personalities, which is a skill in itself. This does bring new challenges, especially as clients can be difficult at times, but also keeps things interesting.

Trying to balance studying for my professional exams, client commitments and a social life outside of work can be difficult. The people I work with are supportive in general, but no one really enjoys sitting exams. Another element of work I find difficult is being found thrown in the deep end at times with a project. It is important not to fall victim to imposter syndrome, especially when working with very senior clients. If I ever feel out of my depth, I remind myself that I’m there for a reason (I was picked and not at random). I also can provide value by delivering the best work that I can.

My final piece of advice would be to try not to overthink when trying to pick a career. You don’t need to pick a career that will last you for your whole life. You should be open to opportunities as and when they arise, even if it is outside your comfort zone. You never know until you try. The first few years of work are about building up your skillset, especially as early in your career, mistakes are easily forgiven. When I started university, I would have never imagined doing what I do now, but here I am and don’t see myself doing anything different right now.