KPMG Associate Consultant Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: I was approached by the company for this role.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Coding Test:

    • Questions Asked: Two coding questions and one SQL question.
    • Your Approach: I focused on solving the coding questions efficiently and ensured my SQL query was optimized.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.
  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Questions on core Java and Java 8.
      2. Detailed discussion about my previous projects.
    • Your Approach: I revised core Java concepts and Java 8 features thoroughly and prepared to explain my projects in detail.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Questions on multi-threading, core Java, and Java 8.
      2. Further discussion about my previous projects.
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on multi-threading concepts and revisited my project details to answer confidently.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round as well.
  • Round 4 - Behavioral Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Managerial questions along with a small coding question.
    • Your Approach: I focused on demonstrating my problem-solving skills and managerial mindset while answering the coding question.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the final round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Revise core Java, Java 8, and multi-threading concepts thoroughly.
  • Be prepared to discuss your previous projects in detail.
  • Practice coding problems and SQL queries to ensure efficiency.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and managerial scenarios.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt well-prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have spent more time practicing behavioral questions. My advice to future candidates is to balance technical and behavioral preparation equally and ensure clarity in explaining project details.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: Hyderabad (Interview conducted at ICFAI Business School)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad, in August 2022.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

    • Questions Asked: N/A (Resume screening round)
    • Your Approach: Ensured my resume was well-formatted and aligned to make it easy for the recruiter to read.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.
  • Round 2 - Aptitude Test:

    • Questions Asked: Basic Maths, English, and Logical Reasoning questions.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by revising fundamental concepts and practicing sample questions.
    • Outcome: Cleared the test and moved to the next round.
  • Round 3 - One-on-one Round (Technical):

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Walk me through your CV.
      2. Without the help of the internet, calculate the number of white cars sold in Mumbai every year (methodology was the focus).
      3. Estimate the number of Reynolds pens sold in Gurgaon every year.
      4. What is financial modeling, and why do you require it?
    • Your Approach: For estimation questions, I broke down the problem logically and explained my thought process. For the financial modeling question, I provided a clear definition and its importance in decision-making.
    • Outcome: Successfully advanced to the next round.
  • Round 4 - One-on-one Round (Scenario-based):

    • Questions Asked:
      1. While working late at night, you realize the data you’ve been working on for two weeks is missing something. No seniors are available, and the submission is due tonight. How do you handle this?
      2. If the missing data was the client’s fault, how would you communicate this to them?
      3. What if it was your own mistake?
      4. What if it was your boss’s mistake?
    • Your Approach: Focused on problem-solving, accountability, and clear communication in each scenario.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round as well.
  • Round 5 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Will you be comfortable working in Mumbai?
      2. How do you see your career path at our firm?
    • Your Approach: Answered honestly about my willingness to relocate and shared my career aspirations aligned with the firm’s growth.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Thoroughly review your CV, as questions are often based on your resume.
  • Practice estimation and logical reasoning problems.
  • Be honest in your answers; they value transparency over fancy responses.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was structured and tested both technical and situational problem-solving skills. Being honest and clear in my responses worked well for me. I would advise future candidates to focus on logical thinking and stay calm during scenario-based questions.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds, including a Group Discussion (GD), HR round, technical round, and a partner interview. Each round was sequential, meaning passing one round was necessary to proceed to the next. The interviewers were very supportive throughout the process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion (GD):

    • Questions Asked: The GD was more like a debate, with topics likely related to current events or general business scenarios.
    • Your Approach: I focused on presenting clear points, listening actively to others, and contributing constructively to the discussion.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
  • Round 2 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: The HR round involved personal questions, likely about my background, motivations, and fit for the role.
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly and tried to align my responses with the company’s values and the role’s requirements.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked: Questions were focused on accounting entries and current events, testing both technical knowledge and awareness of the industry.
    • Your Approach: I revised key accounting concepts beforehand and stayed updated with recent news to answer confidently.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round and advanced to the final stage.
  • Round 4 - Partner Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round was more of a formality, with general questions about my aspirations and fit for the company.
    • Your Approach: I maintained professionalism and expressed my enthusiasm for the role and the company.
    • Outcome: Successfully completed the interview process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on accounting fundamentals, especially entries and principles.
  • Stay updated with current events, particularly those related to the business and financial sectors.
  • Practice group discussions or debates to improve communication and teamwork skills.
  • Be prepared to discuss your personal and professional background in detail during the HR round.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process at KPMG was structured and supportive. The interviewers were helpful, and each round tested different aspects of my skills and knowledge. I would advise future candidates to prepare thoroughly for the technical round and stay calm and confident throughout the process.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical & Case Study:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Asked to analyze a dataset using Excel and create a summary.
    • Presented a business case study and asked to structure a solution using PowerPoint.
  • Your Approach:

    • For Excel, I used pivot tables and basic formulas to summarize the data.
    • For the case study, I followed a structured approach: problem definition, root cause analysis, and proposed solutions with a clear PPT layout.
  • Outcome: Passed this round.

  • Round 2 - Group Discussion:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Given a topic related to current business trends and asked to discuss in a group.
  • Your Approach:

    • Actively participated, listened to others, and contributed structured points.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • “Tell me about yourself.”
    • “Why KPMG?”
    • “Describe a time you worked in a team.”
  • Your Approach:

    • Kept answers concise and aligned with the role.
  • Outcome: Passed.

  • Round 4 - Final Technical & Behavioral Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Deep dive into Excel skills (e.g., VLOOKUP, macros).
    • Behavioral questions like handling tight deadlines.
  • Your Approach:

    • Demonstrated advanced Excel skills and shared real-life examples for behavioral questions.
  • Outcome: Selected for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice Excel and PowerPoint thoroughly.
  • Brush up on case study frameworks.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.

Conclusion:
The interview process was comprehensive but fair. Excel and PPT skills were crucial, so focus on those. Being clear and structured in communication helped a lot. Would advise future candidates to practice mock case studies and group discussions.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process began with an online application followed by a shortlisting based on academic performance and resume.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Tell me about yourself.
    • Why do you want to join KPMG?
    • Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a conflict. How did you resolve it?
    • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on my relevant experiences. For the team conflict question, I used the STAR method to structure my response.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round and received positive feedback on my communication skills.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Explain a project you worked on that involved data analysis.
    • How would you handle a situation where a client provides incomplete data?
    • What tools or software are you proficient in for data analysis?
  • Your Approach: I highlighted my academic projects and emphasized my problem-solving skills. For the incomplete data scenario, I discussed steps like clarifying requirements and using statistical methods to fill gaps.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round with feedback on demonstrating strong analytical skills.

  • Round 3 - Case Study:

  • Questions Asked:

    • A client wants to reduce operational costs. How would you approach this problem?
    • Analyze a given dataset and suggest key insights.
  • Your Approach: I structured my response by breaking down the problem into cost drivers and potential solutions. For the dataset, I focused on identifying trends and outliers.

  • Outcome: Successfully presented my analysis and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice case studies using frameworks like SWOT or Porter’s Five Forces.
  • Brush up on technical skills, especially data analysis tools like Excel or Python.
  • Prepare for HR questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the role.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was well-structured and challenging. I felt confident in my technical and analytical responses but realized I could improve my time management during the case study. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing case studies under timed conditions and being clear and concise in all rounds.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: I applied online and was later contacted via email to visit the office for interviews with the directors.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Director Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The directors asked about my understanding of the role, my previous experiences, and how I handle challenges in a team setting. They also inquired about my problem-solving approach and my familiarity with consulting frameworks.

  • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my past experiences with the role’s requirements and emphasized my teamwork and analytical skills. I also mentioned a few consulting frameworks I was familiar with and how I applied them in academic projects.

  • Outcome: I passed this round and was invited for further discussions.

  • Round 2 - Case Study Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: I was given a business case to analyze and provide recommendations. The case revolved around improving operational efficiency for a client.

  • Your Approach: I structured my analysis using a framework I had learned, breaking down the problem into key areas like cost, processes, and stakeholder impact. I also asked clarifying questions to ensure I understood the scenario fully.

  • Outcome: The directors seemed satisfied with my approach, and I moved to the final round.

  • Round 3 - HR Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: This round was more about cultural fit, my career aspirations, and why I wanted to join KPMG. They also discussed the company’s values and expectations.

  • Your Approach: I highlighted my enthusiasm for consulting and how KPMG’s values resonated with my professional goals. I also asked about growth opportunities within the firm.

  • Outcome: This round went well, and I received a positive response.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic consulting frameworks like SWOT, Porter’s Five Forces, and the MECE principle.
  • Practice case studies to improve your problem-solving speed and clarity.
  • Research the company’s recent projects and values to align your answers during the HR round.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but engaging. The directors were approachable, and the case study round was particularly insightful. I could have prepared more industry-specific examples to strengthen my responses. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing case studies and being clear about your motivations for joining consulting.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process:
An email was sent to confirm the on-campus interview. After selecting a date, a notice for a pre-interview dinner event came up. Many interviewers and greeters attended, but my interviewer did not show up. The next day, the on-campus interview was held.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • General behavioral questions based on my resume.
      • Questions about my major and the industry.
    • Your Approach:
      • I answered the behavioral questions honestly, focusing on my experiences and skills. When asked about the industry, I hesitated slightly, and the interviewer provided his own explanation.
    • Outcome:
      • After a week, I received an email stating I did not advance to the second round.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was straightforward but a bit unexpected since my interviewer missed the pre-interview dinner. The questions were general, but my hesitation on industry-related topics might have impacted the outcome. For future candidates, I’d recommend being more confident and prepared to discuss the industry in depth, even if the questions seem basic.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Final Interview:
  • Questions Asked: The interview was a mix of technical and behavioral questions. The interviewer asked about my previous projects, problem-solving approach, and how I handle team dynamics.
  • Your Approach: I focused on showcasing my problem-solving skills and how I contributed to team projects. I also emphasized my adaptability and willingness to learn.
  • Outcome: Got selected after a 15-day waiting period.

Conclusion:

While I was excited to join KPMG, my experience with the reporting manager was not great. I decided to leave after just 3 days, but the resignation process was unexpectedly difficult and took 3 weeks to complete. The reporting manager was uncooperative, which made the exit process stressful. My advice to future candidates is to thoroughly research the team and reporting structure before accepting an offer, as the work environment can significantly impact your experience.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved an in-person interview arranged by a recruiter. Prior to the interview, I clarified with the recruiter whether my lack of experience for the role would be an issue, and I was assured it would not.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - In-Person Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The interview was conducted with one person in person and another on the phone. The questions revolved around my background and experience, which, as mentioned, did not align with the requirements of the position.

  • Your Approach: I was transparent about my experience and tried to highlight my transferable skills and enthusiasm for the role.

  • Outcome: The interview felt like a waste of time since the position clearly required experience I did not possess, despite prior assurances from the recruiter.

Conclusion:

The experience was frustrating because the recruiter misrepresented the role’s requirements, leading to an unnecessary interview. My advice for future candidates is to double-check the job description and requirements independently, even if a recruiter assures you otherwise. Always be prepared to advocate for yourself and clarify expectations upfront to avoid similar situations.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: I applied through the company’s online portal. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks for the interview rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Telephone Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Why do you want to apply for this role at KPMG?
      • Why should we choose you for this position?
      • Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
      • Some questions to assess logical thinking (e.g., situational problem-solving).
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on my skills and enthusiasm for the role. For the logical questions, I took a moment to think before responding clearly.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and was invited for the final interview.
  • Round 2 - Final Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Similar to the first round but more in-depth about my background and experiences.
      • A few situational questions to gauge problem-solving abilities.
      • Questions about my understanding of the role and the company.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my relevant experiences and how they align with the role. I also made sure to ask a couple of thoughtful questions about the team and company culture.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company and the role thoroughly.
  • Practice common interview questions, especially those related to logical thinking.
  • Be yourself and stay calm; the interviewers are friendly and want to get to know you.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and conversational. The interviewers were very approachable, which helped ease my nerves. I would advise future candidates to focus on being genuine and prepared, especially for the logical thinking aspects of the interview.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: Atlanta (for the final interview round)

Application Process:
I started by talking to a recruiter, who guided me through the initial steps. After that, I submitted an online application. The process then moved to a phone interview with a principal from the practice I was interviewing for. Finally, I was invited to Atlanta for a two-day interview process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview with Principal:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Why are you interested in this role at KPMG?
      • Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a challenge.
      • How do you handle tight deadlines?
    • Your Approach:
      I focused on aligning my experiences with the role’s requirements, emphasizing teamwork and problem-solving. I also researched KPMG’s values to tailor my answers.
    • Outcome:
      I passed this round and was invited to the final interview in Atlanta.
  • Round 2 - Informal Meet and Greet (Day 1 in Atlanta):

    • Questions Asked:
      • More casual questions about my background and interests.
      • Why KPMG?
      • What do you know about our practice?
    • Your Approach:
      I kept the conversation professional but relaxed, showing enthusiasm for the company and the role. I also asked questions about their experiences at KPMG.
    • Outcome:
      This was more of a networking opportunity, but it helped me build rapport with the team.
  • Round 3 - One-on-One Interviews (Day 2 in Atlanta):

    • Questions Asked:
      • Walk me through your resume.
      • How do you approach problem-solving?
      • Describe a time you led a project.
      • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
    • Your Approach:
      I structured my answers using the STAR method to keep them concise and impactful. I also highlighted leadership and analytical skills relevant to the role.
    • Outcome:
      I felt confident about my performance, and later received an offer for the position.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, especially the practice you’re interviewing for.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about their roles and the company culture.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was smooth and well-organized. The informal meet and greet was a great way to ease into the final interviews. I’d advise future candidates to relax, be themselves, and showcase how their skills align with KPMG’s values. Good luck!

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Business Scenario Solution:

  • Questions Asked: Provide a solution for a real business scenario.

  • Your Approach: Focused on presenting a structured solution, demonstrating strong verbal ability and logical thought process.

  • Outcome: Passed this round, as the presentation skills and thought process were well-received.

  • Round 2 - Excel Exercise:

  • Questions Asked: 10 Excel tasks to be completed in one hour, with a requirement to get at least 8 correct.

  • Your Approach: Prioritized accuracy and efficiency, ensuring tasks were completed within the time limit.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: General HR questions to assess fit and personality.

  • Your Approach: Stayed relaxed and answered questions honestly.

  • Outcome: Passed this round comfortably.

  • Round 4 - Team Member Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Puzzles and analytical thinking discussions.

  • Your Approach: Tackled puzzles methodically and engaged in analytical discussions.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round.

  • Round 5 - Manager Interview:

  • Questions Asked: More in-depth discussions on the subject matter.

  • Your Approach: Demonstrated knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.

  • Outcome: Passed this round.

  • Round 6 - Partner Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Intense questioning for about an hour, focusing on stress handling and team fit.

  • Your Approach: Tried to stay composed under pressure and answered questions as best as possible.

  • Outcome: Found this round challenging but managed to pass.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice solving business case studies to improve presentation and problem-solving skills.
  • Brush up on Excel skills, focusing on common tasks and shortcuts.
  • Prepare for puzzles and analytical questions by practicing logical reasoning problems.
  • For HR and fit interviews, be genuine and confident in your responses.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but rewarding. The business scenario and Excel rounds were particularly demanding, so thorough preparation is key. The partner interview was the toughest, testing both technical knowledge and stress management. My advice for future candidates is to stay calm, prepare extensively, and be ready for anything!

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, interests, and why I wanted to join KPMG.
    • Your Approach: Answered honestly and confidently, focusing on my passion for consulting and problem-solving.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully. The HR was very warm and polite, which made the experience pleasant.
  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Questions related to my technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and case studies.
    • Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly with case studies and technical concepts beforehand. Stayed calm and structured in my responses.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round as well. The interviewer was professional and the discussion was productive.
  • Round 3 - Additional Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Similar to the previous technical round but with a more critical tone from the interviewer.
    • Your Approach: Tried to remain composed and answered to the best of my ability, despite the interviewer’s judgmental attitude.
    • Outcome: Felt the interviewer was shallow and unfair in their assessment. This round was unexpected and left a negative impression.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was a mix of positive and challenging experiences. The HR and first two technical rounds were great, but the additional technical round was disappointing due to the interviewer’s attitude. My advice to future candidates would be to prepare thoroughly for all possible rounds and stay confident, even if faced with unexpected challenges.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Telephonic Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Tell me about yourself.
    • Why do you want to join KPMG?
    • Describe a situation where you handled a challenging team dynamic.
    • How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?
  • Your Approach:

    • Prepared a concise introduction highlighting my academic background and relevant experiences.
    • Researched KPMG’s values and recent projects to align my answers with their culture.
    • Used the STAR method to structure my response for the situational question.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Telephonic Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Explain a project where you demonstrated leadership.
    • How do you handle feedback from peers or supervisors?
    • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
    • How do you stay updated with industry trends?
  • Your Approach:

    • Chose a project from my internship to showcase leadership skills.
    • Emphasized my adaptability and willingness to learn from feedback.
    • Balanced my strengths with a genuine weakness and how I work on it.
    • Mentioned following industry blogs and attending webinars.
  • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round as well.

  • Round 3 - Face-to-Face/VC Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Walk me through your resume in detail.
    • How would you approach a problem where the client’s requirements are unclear?
    • Describe a time you failed and what you learned from it.
    • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  • Your Approach:

    • Structured my resume walkthrough chronologically, focusing on key achievements.
    • Used a hypothetical scenario to explain my problem-solving approach.
    • Shared a genuine failure story and highlighted the lessons learned.
    • Aligned my 5-year plan with career growth at KPMG.
  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and was selected for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, including recent news and projects.
  • Practice the STAR method for situational and behavioral questions.
  • Prepare a list of common interview questions and rehearse answers.
  • Be ready to discuss your resume in detail.

Conclusion:

The interview process was structured and focused on both technical and behavioral aspects. Being well-prepared and staying calm helped me perform well. I would advise future candidates to focus on clear communication and authenticity in their responses.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: Campus Recruitment

Application Process: Applied through campus recruitment. The process included a Group Discussion (GD) followed by an HR cum technical interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion (GD):

    • Topics Given: Moderate to difficult topics requiring out-of-the-box thinking.
    • Your Approach: Focused on presenting unique perspectives and ensuring active participation without dominating the discussion.
    • Outcome: Cleared the GD round and advanced to the next stage.
  • Round 2 - HR cum Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Strategy and guesstimate questions.
      • HR-related questions.
      • Resume-based questions (no prior work experience).
    • Your Approach:
      • For strategy and guesstimate questions, broke down the problem logically and provided structured answers.
      • For HR questions, emphasized soft skills and adaptability.
      • For resume questions, highlighted academic projects and extracurricular activities.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the interview and received the offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice GD topics regularly, focusing on diverse and unconventional themes.
  • Brush up on logical reasoning and problem-solving skills for guesstimate questions.
  • Be thorough with your resume and ready to discuss any academic or extracurricular achievements.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was challenging but rewarding. The key was staying calm and thinking creatively during the GD and interview. Future candidates should focus on developing a structured approach to problem-solving and ensuring clarity in communication.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: Campus Recruitment

Application Process: The process began with resume shortlisting, where mostly finance majors were selected. This was followed by multiple rounds of interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: The topic for the group discussion was not specified, but it was likely related to finance or general business scenarios.

  • Your Approach: I actively participated, shared relevant points, and ensured I was collaborative while putting forward my ideas.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The interview focused on valuations and corporate finance. Questions included explaining valuation methods, DCF analysis, and key concepts in corporate finance.

  • Your Approach: I prepared by revising core finance concepts and practiced explaining them clearly. I also used real-world examples to illustrate my points.

  • Outcome: Cleared the technical round.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Typical HR questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why KPMG?” and situational questions about teamwork and problem-solving.

  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise, aligned them with the role, and emphasized my fit for the company culture.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round.

  • Round 4 - Final HR Round:

  • Questions Asked: More in-depth HR questions, including long-term career goals and how I handle challenges.

  • Your Approach: I was honest about my aspirations and demonstrated adaptability and resilience in my answers.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round, and the final results were declared.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on core finance topics, especially valuations and corporate finance.
  • Practice group discussions to improve participation and articulation.
  • Prepare for HR questions by researching the company and aligning your answers with their values.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was structured and insightful. I felt well-prepared for the technical aspects but could have practiced more situational HR questions. My advice to future candidates is to thoroughly revise finance concepts and be confident in interviews.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: Received an email from the HR team inviting me to attend the interview process. The process involved multiple rounds with different stakeholders.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Why are you interested in this role?
      • What do you know about KPMG?
      • Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a challenge.
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on my relevant experiences and skills. I also highlighted my enthusiasm for the role and my understanding of KPMG’s values.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
  • Round 2 - SME (Subject Matter Expert) Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Technical questions related to the job role (e.g., problem-solving scenarios, industry-specific knowledge).
      • How would you handle a situation where a client is unhappy with the service?
    • Your Approach: I answered the technical questions based on my knowledge and experience. For the situational question, I used the STAR method to structure my response.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
  • Round 3 - Product Manager Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?
      • Describe a time you had to learn something new quickly for a project.
    • Your Approach: I shared examples from my past experiences to demonstrate my ability to manage tasks and adapt to new challenges.
    • Outcome: Passed this round.
  • Round 4 - Associate Director Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
      • How do you handle feedback and criticism?
      • What motivates you to perform at your best?
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly, aligning my career goals with the company’s growth. I also emphasized my ability to take feedback positively and stay motivated.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round and received the offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, including its values, recent projects, and industry trends.
  • Practice common HR and technical questions related to the role.
  • Use the STAR method for situational and behavioral questions.
  • Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in detail.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. The key to success was being prepared and staying confident. I would advise future candidates to focus on their communication skills and to be authentic in their responses. Good luck!

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: Mostly about my past experiences and whether I am a team player.
    • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my teamwork skills and shared specific examples from my past projects to demonstrate collaboration.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.
  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked: Questions were again centered around my past experiences, with a focus on technical aspects and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: I discussed my technical projects in detail, explaining the challenges faced and how I resolved them.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
  • Round 3 - Partner Round:

    • Questions Asked: This round was more about handling pressure and situational judgment.
    • Your Approach: I remained calm and composed, providing clear and concise answers while demonstrating my ability to handle stress.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round as well.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on your past experiences and be ready to discuss them in detail.
  • Practice situational questions to handle pressure effectively.
  • Highlight teamwork and collaboration skills.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the questions were aligned with the role’s expectations. I could have prepared more situational questions for the partner round, but my experience and teamwork examples helped me stand out. For future candidates, I’d advise practicing behavioral and situational questions thoroughly.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved three rounds of interviews, and the entire process was completed within a week. There was also a negotiation period afterward, though it didn’t yield significant results.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Excel Test (Case Study):

  • Questions Asked: The first round was an Excel test based on a case study. The exact details of the case study weren’t shared, but it likely involved data analysis, manipulation, and presentation skills.

  • Your Approach: I focused on ensuring my Excel skills were sharp, particularly in functions like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and data visualization. I also practiced case studies beforehand to get comfortable with interpreting and analyzing data.

  • Outcome: Passed this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Face-to-Face Interview with Team Manager:

  • Questions Asked: This round involved behavioral and situational questions, such as “Tell me about a time you worked in a team,” “How do you handle tight deadlines?” and “What do you know about KPMG and this role?”

  • Your Approach: I prepared by researching KPMG’s values, recent projects, and the role of an Associate Consultant. I also practiced the STAR method to structure my answers for behavioral questions.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and advanced to the final interview.

  • Round 3 - Interview with Partner:

  • Questions Asked: This was a high-level discussion about my career goals, alignment with KPMG’s culture, and how I could contribute to the team. Questions included “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” and “How do you handle ambiguity in projects?”

  • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with KPMG’s mission and values. I also emphasized my adaptability and problem-solving skills.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on Excel skills, especially for data analysis and visualization.
  • Research the company thoroughly, including its culture, recent projects, and the role you’re applying for.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how they align with the company.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth and well-organized. The Excel test was challenging but manageable with preparation. The interviews were conversational, and the interviewers were friendly. If I could do anything differently, I would have negotiated the offer more assertively. For future candidates, my advice is to prepare thoroughly for each round and be confident in your skills and experiences.

Company Name: KPMG

Position: Associate Consultant

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds of interviews, including a telephonic round followed by a face-to-face interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Telephonic Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interview lasted 40 to 50 minutes and covered technical aspects relevant to the role. The panel scrutinized my CV thoroughly, asking in-depth questions about my knowledge and experience.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by thoroughly reviewing my CV and brushing up on technical concepts related to the role. I ensured I could explain every detail mentioned in my CV.
    • Outcome: The round was challenging but I managed to answer most questions confidently.
  • Round 2 - Face-to-Face Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The panel consisted of 2 to 3 people who continued the technical scrutiny. They tested my problem-solving skills and asked situational questions to assess my fit for the role.
    • Your Approach: I focused on staying calm and structured in my responses. I used real-life examples to demonstrate my skills and knowledge.
    • Outcome: The interview was intense, but I felt I performed well overall.

Preparation Tips:

  • Thoroughly review your CV and be prepared to explain every detail.
  • Brush up on technical concepts relevant to the role.
  • Practice answering situational and problem-solving questions.

Conclusion:
The interview process at KPMG was rigorous but rewarding. The key takeaway is to be well-prepared and confident in your knowledge. Future candidates should focus on mastering their CV details and technical skills to succeed in the interviews.