Application Process: Applied online for the Tax Associate role at KPMG Global Services (KGS).
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Online Assessments:
Questions Asked: The first round included standard numerical and situational judgment (SJ) tests.
Your Approach: Prepared for numerical reasoning and SJ questions using generic practice materials.
Outcome: Unfortunately, did not pass this round. The competition in London is quite high, which might have contributed to the outcome.
Conclusion:
While I didn’t make it past the first round, I learned that applying to less competitive locations might improve chances. For future candidates, I’d suggest thorough preparation for numerical and SJ tests and considering other locations if flexibility allows. Thanks for reading, and best of luck to everyone applying!
Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Partner Interview:
Questions Asked: No specific questions were asked by the partner. The conversation was more about understanding my background and interest in the role.
Your Approach: I kept the conversation professional and focused on my enthusiasm for the role and my relevant skills.
Outcome: Positive interaction; moved to the next round.
Round 2 - Manager Interview:
Questions Asked: Common behavioral questions, such as:
“Tell me about yourself.”
“Why do you want to work in tax?”
“Describe a time you worked in a team.”
Your Approach: I answered concisely, using the STAR method for behavioral questions, and emphasized my teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Outcome: Friendly and positive experience; received a response within a couple of days.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on common behavioral questions and practice the STAR method.
Research the company and the role to align your answers with their values and expectations.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and the interviewers were very welcoming. I felt well-prepared, but I could have researched more about the specific tax projects KPMG handles to tailor my answers better. For future candidates, I’d recommend being confident and authentic in your responses.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Group Interview:
Questions Asked: Mostly non-technical questions. The interview was brief and lasted about 20 minutes.
Your Approach: Since it was a group interview with three candidates, I made sure to answer questions clearly and confidently to leave a good impression.
Outcome: The interviewer was approachable, and the process went smoothly.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on presenting yourself confidently in group settings.
Prepare for basic non-technical questions, as the interview was not heavily technical.
Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward and not as intimidating as expected. The key was to stay composed and engage actively in the group discussion. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing clear communication and being prepared for a relaxed yet professional setting.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked: Behavioral questions focused on teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Your Approach: Answered using the STAR method, providing specific examples from past experiences.
Outcome: Passed this round.
Round 2 - Informal Q&A:
Questions Asked: The interviewer primarily fielded questions from me rather than asking their own.
Your Approach: Prepared thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and company culture to show engagement.
Outcome: Successfully moved forward in the process.
Preparation Tips:
Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer to demonstrate interest.
Keep the tone conversational and relaxed, as the process is informal.
Conclusion:
The interview process was very informal and conversational, which made it less stressful. What worked well was being prepared with questions to ask the interviewer, as it showed my enthusiasm for the role. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on behavioral preparation and having a list of questions ready to engage the interviewer.
Application Process: Applied through the company’s official career portal. The process involved submitting a resume and a cover letter tailored to the Tax Associate role.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Online Assessment:
Questions Asked: The assessment included aptitude questions, logical reasoning, and a few basic tax-related scenarios to gauge foundational knowledge.
Your Approach: I brushed up on basic tax concepts and practiced aptitude questions from online resources. For the tax scenarios, I relied on my coursework and some quick revisions of tax laws.
Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked: Questions about tax regulations, recent changes in tax laws, and how I would handle specific client scenarios. Also, a few behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team.”
Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing tax laws and recent updates. For behavioral questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers.
Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the final round.
Round 3 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked: Questions about my motivation for joining KPMG, long-term career goals, and how I handle work pressure.
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with the company’s values and culture, emphasizing my interest in taxation and client service.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer letter shortly after.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on basic tax concepts and stay updated with recent changes in tax laws.
Practice aptitude and logical reasoning questions.
For behavioral questions, use the STAR method to structure your answers clearly.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. The key was thorough preparation and staying calm during the interviews. I would advise future candidates to focus on both technical and behavioral aspects, as KPMG values a balance of knowledge and interpersonal skills.
Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process included an aptitude test followed by a technical interview.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Focused on logical reasoning, English, accounting, and finance.
Your Approach: Prepared by practicing aptitude questions from online resources and brushing up on basic accounting and finance concepts.
Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked: Based on the job description for the Tax Associate role, specifically M&A (Mergers and Acquisitions) in US tax. Questions included basic understanding of tax forms.
Your Approach: Revised key tax concepts, especially those related to US tax and M&A. Focused on understanding tax forms and their relevance in transactions.
Outcome: The interviewers were friendly and the round went well. Awaiting final results.
Preparation Tips:
Practice aptitude tests focusing on logical reasoning, English, and basic accounting/finance.
Brush up on tax-related concepts, especially for the US market if applying for a similar role.
Understand the job description thoroughly to anticipate technical questions.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and the interviewers were supportive. Preparing for the technical round by understanding the job description in detail was very helpful. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on both aptitude and technical knowledge specific to the role.
Application Process: Applied through the company’s recruitment portal after seeing the job posting online. The process included an initial screening followed by an invitation to an assessment centre.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Assessment Centre & Interview:
Questions Asked:
Why do you want to work at KPMG?
Why are you interested in the tax role specifically?
Your Approach:
For the “Why KPMG?” question, I highlighted the company’s reputation, global presence, and alignment with my career goals.
For the “Why tax?” question, I discussed my interest in taxation as a dynamic field and how it aligns with my skills and long-term aspirations.
Outcome: The atmosphere was relaxed as there were many candidates present, and I felt comfortable during the interview. I passed this round and moved forward in the process.
Preparation Tips:
Research the company thoroughly, especially its values and recent projects.
Reflect on your interest in the specific role (tax in this case) and be ready to articulate it clearly.
Practice standard interview questions to build confidence.
Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was positive. The relaxed environment helped me perform better, but I could have prepared more specific examples to strengthen my answers. For future candidates, I’d recommend staying calm and being genuine in your responses—it goes a long way!
Application Process: The process began with submitting an online application, followed by resume screening. Selected candidates were then invited for further rounds.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Online Assessment Test:
Questions Asked: The test included sections on logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and verbal ability. There were also scenario-based questions related to tax and accounting concepts.
Your Approach: I brushed up on basic accounting principles and practiced logical reasoning questions from online resources. For the scenario-based questions, I tried to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
Outcome: Cleared the round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked: Questions covered topics like tax laws, accounting standards, and recent updates in taxation. There were also case studies to analyze and solve.
Your Approach: I revised key tax concepts and accounting standards beforehand. For case studies, I took a structured approach—first understanding the problem, then breaking it down into smaller parts, and finally proposing solutions.
Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my answers, and I advanced to the next round.
Round 3 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked: Typical HR questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why KPMG?” and “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” There were also situational questions to assess teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Your Approach: I prepared my answers in advance, focusing on aligning my career goals with KPMG’s values. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my responses.
Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback.
Preparation Tips:
Revise core tax and accounting concepts thoroughly.
Practice logical reasoning and quantitative aptitude questions.
Stay updated with recent changes in tax laws.
Prepare for HR questions by researching the company and aligning your answers with their values.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. The key to success was thorough preparation and staying calm during the interviews. I would advise future candidates to focus on both technical and soft skills, as KPMG evaluates candidates holistically.
Application Process: I applied through the company’s online portal after seeing the job posting. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Can you explain the basics of GST in India?
What are the different types of taxes levied in India?
How do you calculate TDS for a salaried individual?
Can you differentiate between direct and indirect taxes?
Your Approach: I focused on providing clear and concise answers, using examples where possible to demonstrate my understanding. I also referred to recent updates in tax laws to show my awareness of current trends.
Outcome: I passed this round and was invited for the next round.
Round 2 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
Why do you want to work in taxation?
How do you handle tight deadlines?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Your Approach: I kept my answers professional yet personal, aligning my career goals with the role. I also emphasized my ability to manage stress and meet deadlines effectively.
Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied, and I was selected for the role.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on the basics of Indian taxation, including GST, TDS, and direct vs. indirect taxes.
Stay updated with recent changes in tax laws.
Practice answering HR questions to articulate your thoughts clearly.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and analytical. The questions were theory-based, which tested my knowledge of taxation in India. I felt well-prepared, but I could have spent more time on recent amendments to tax laws. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical applications of taxation principles.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process was smooth, and the company made the candidates feel welcome and valued from the start.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell us about yourself.
Why do you want to join KPMG?
How do you handle pressure in a fast-paced environment?
Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my relevant skills and experiences, aligning my career goals with KPMG’s values, and providing examples of how I manage stress effectively.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Explain the basics of tax compliance.
How would you handle a situation where a client disagrees with your tax assessment?
Describe a time you worked in a team to solve a problem.
Your Approach: I answered the technical questions confidently, using examples from my coursework and internships. For the situational question, I emphasized communication and problem-solving skills.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.
Round 3 - Managerial Interview:
Questions Asked:
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
How do you prioritize tasks when handling multiple deadlines?
Share an experience where you had to adapt to a sudden change.
Your Approach: I discussed my long-term career aspirations, my organizational skills, and provided a real-life example of adaptability.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved forward.
Preparation Tips:
Research the company’s core values and recent projects.
Brush up on basic tax concepts and compliance procedures.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Be confident and authentic in your responses.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process at KPMG was a great learning experience. The interviewers were friendly and focused on understanding my potential fit for the role. I realized the importance of being well-prepared and staying calm under pressure. My advice to future candidates is to be genuine, showcase your strengths, and align your answers with the company’s culture and expectations.
Application Process: The application was part of a campus placement process. The selection involved multiple rounds, including orientation, group discussion, technical interviews, and an HR round. The entire process was quite lengthy, spanning from 10 AM to 6:30 PM.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Orientation:
Details: The day started with an orientation session where the company introduced its work culture, values, and expectations from the candidates.
Outcome: This was an introductory round, and all candidates proceeded to the next stage.
Round 2 - Group Discussion:
Topics: The group discussion covered some interesting and relevant topics. Unfortunately, the specific topics weren’t mentioned.
Your Approach: I tried to actively participate, share my views clearly, and listen to others to build on their points.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and moved to the technical interviews.
Round 3 - Technical Interview 1:
Questions Asked: The questions were focused on tax-related concepts, accounting principles, and some situational problems.
Your Approach: I relied on my academic knowledge and practical understanding of taxation to answer the questions. I also tried to stay calm and composed.
Outcome: Cleared this round and advanced to the next technical interview.
Round 4 - Technical Interview 2:
Questions Asked: This round delved deeper into technicalities, including case studies and hypothetical scenarios related to tax compliance and advisory.
Your Approach: I used logical reasoning and applied my theoretical knowledge to the practical scenarios presented.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round as well.
Round 5 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked: The HR round focused on my motivation for joining KPMG, my long-term career goals, and how I handle teamwork and pressure.
Your Approach: I answered honestly, aligning my responses with the company’s values and my own aspirations.
Outcome: Cleared the HR round and received positive feedback.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on core tax and accounting concepts, as the technical rounds are quite thorough.
Practice group discussions on diverse topics to improve articulation and teamwork skills.
Be prepared for situational questions in the HR round by reflecting on your past experiences and career goals.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but well-structured. The long duration was challenging, but staying focused and prepared helped me navigate it successfully. For future candidates, I’d advise thorough preparation for both technical and HR rounds, as well as maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process.
Application Process:
I applied online for the Tax Associate position at KPMG Global Services (KGS). Two weeks after submitting my application, I received an email allowing me to choose an interview time slot. The interview was divided into two 30-minute blocks: one with a director and the other with a partner.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Interview with Director:
Questions Asked:
Can you walk me through your resume and highlight your relevant experience?
Why are you interested in tax and this role specifically?
How do you handle tight deadlines or high-pressure situations?
Describe a time when you had to work in a team to solve a problem.
Your Approach:
I focused on aligning my past experiences with the requirements of the role, emphasizing my analytical skills and attention to detail.
For behavioral questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers clearly.
Outcome:
The director seemed engaged and asked follow-up questions, which I took as a positive sign. I passed this round.
Round 2 - Interview with Partner:
Questions Asked:
What do you know about KPMG and its tax services?
How do you stay updated with changes in tax laws and regulations?
Can you give an example of a complex problem you solved and how you approached it?
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
Your Approach:
I researched KPMG’s tax services beforehand and tailored my answers to show my enthusiasm for the company.
For the problem-solving question, I broke down my thought process step-by-step to demonstrate logical thinking.
Outcome:
The partner appreciated my preparation and clarity. I received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.
Preparation Tips:
Research the company thoroughly, especially its tax services and recent developments.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method to structure your answers.
Brush up on basic tax concepts and stay updated with recent changes in tax laws.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-organized. Both interviewers were professional and made me feel comfortable. I could have been more concise in some answers, but the feedback was encouraging. My advice to future candidates is to prepare well, stay calm, and be yourself during the interview. Good luck!
Application Process:
I applied online for the Tax Associate position at KPMG Global Services (KGS). About a month later, I received a phone call from HR for a short interview. After that, I was required to take a numerical and reasoning test, followed by an interview with the hiring managers.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Phone Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in this role?
What do you know about KPMG and its services?
Describe a time you worked in a team.
Your Approach:
I kept my answers concise and focused on my relevant skills and experiences. I also researched KPMG beforehand to answer the company-specific questions confidently.
Outcome:
I passed this round and was invited to the next stage.
Your Approach:
I practiced similar tests online to get comfortable with the format and timed myself to improve speed and accuracy.
Outcome:
I cleared the test and moved to the final interview round.
Round 3 - Hiring Managers Interview:
Questions Asked:
Walk me through your resume.
How do you handle tight deadlines?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Scenario-based questions related to tax and accounting.
Your Approach:
I prepared by reviewing my resume thoroughly and practicing behavioral questions. For technical questions, I brushed up on basic tax concepts.
Outcome:
The interview went well, and I received positive feedback.
Preparation Tips:
Research the company and role thoroughly.
Practice numerical and reasoning tests beforehand.
Review your resume and be ready to discuss any part of it.
Brush up on basic tax and accounting concepts for technical questions.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared, but I could have practiced more scenario-based questions to feel even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be honest, and showcase your problem-solving skills.
Application Process: Applied through campus recruiting. Attended an open house event organized by the university career center and submitted the application via the university career website. Received an interview invitation a few weeks later.
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.
Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and relevant, focusing on my academic background, interest in taxation, and prior teamwork experiences. I also researched KPMG beforehand to align my answers with the company’s values.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Explain the basics of tax accounting.
How would you handle a discrepancy in tax filings?
What are the key differences between direct and indirect taxes?
Your Approach: I used my coursework and prior internship experience to answer the technical questions. For the discrepancy question, I emphasized attention to detail and cross-verification.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.
Round 3 - Case Study:
Questions Asked:
Given a scenario with incomplete client tax data, how would you proceed?
Analyze a sample tax return and identify potential errors.
Your Approach: I structured my response by first identifying the missing data, then outlining steps to gather it. For the tax return analysis, I methodically checked each section for inconsistencies.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved to the final round.
Round 4 - Partner Interview:
Questions Asked:
Why do you want to join KPMG specifically?
How do you handle tight deadlines?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Your Approach: I highlighted my long-term interest in taxation and how KPMG aligns with my career goals. For the deadline question, I shared an example from my internship.
Outcome: Received an offer!
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on basic tax concepts, especially direct and indirect taxes.
Practice case studies to improve analytical skills.
Research the company thoroughly to align answers with their values and work culture.
Conclusion:
The process was smooth, and the interviewers were very supportive. I could have prepared more for the case study round, but overall, it was a great learning experience. My advice: stay calm, be yourself, and ensure your answers reflect both your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process included an initial interview with a senior manager on campus, followed by four in-person interviews at the KGS office with Managers and above.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Senior Manager Interview (On-campus):
Questions Asked:
Tell me your story.
Why KPMG?
Why the Tax group?
What motivates you?
Strengths and weaknesses.
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my career goals with KPMG’s values and the role’s requirements. I also highlighted my relevant skills and experiences.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 2 - Manager Interview (In-person):
Questions Asked:
Similar behavioral questions as Round 1, with deeper dives into my motivations and fit for the role.
Scenario-based questions about teamwork and problem-solving.
Your Approach: I provided specific examples from my past experiences to demonstrate my skills and adaptability.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 3 - Senior Manager Interview (In-person):
Questions Asked:
More detailed questions about my understanding of the tax industry.
How I handle pressure and tight deadlines.
Your Approach: I emphasized my ability to learn quickly and stay organized under pressure, using examples from internships.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 4 - Director Interview (In-person):
Questions Asked:
High-level questions about my long-term career goals.
How I contribute to a team dynamic.
Your Approach: I linked my aspirations to KPMG’s growth and shared instances where I successfully collaborated in teams.
Outcome: Advanced to the final round.
Round 5 - Partner Interview (In-person):
Questions Asked:
Broader questions about industry trends and my perspective on them.
How I align with KPMG’s culture.
Your Approach: I showcased my industry knowledge and passion for KPMG’s mission, tying it back to my personal values.
Outcome: Received an offer for the Tax Associate role.
Preparation Tips:
Research KPMG’s values, culture, and recent projects to tailor your answers.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how they align with the role.
Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough but fair, with a strong focus on cultural fit and behavioral alignment. What worked well was my preparation and ability to provide concrete examples. For future candidates, I’d advise practicing your storytelling and ensuring your answers reflect both your skills and enthusiasm for the role.
Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process was straightforward, and I received a call for the interview rounds shortly after submitting my application.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Describe a challenge you faced in your previous employment and how you handled it.
Why do you want to leave your current job?
Why are you interested in this role at KPMG?
Your Approach: I focused on being concise and honest, aligning my answers with the role’s requirements. For the “why KPMG” question, I highlighted my interest in tax-related work and the company’s reputation.
Outcome: Cleared this round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Basic accounting principles and their application.
Tax-related questions, such as differences between direct and indirect taxes.
How would you handle a client query about tax compliance?
Your Approach: I revised my accounting and tax fundamentals beforehand. For scenario-based questions, I structured my answers logically, emphasizing practical steps.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
Round 3 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
More in-depth tax scenarios, like handling cross-border taxation issues.
How do you stay updated with changing tax laws?
Case study: Analyze a client’s financials and suggest tax-saving strategies.
Your Approach: I used real-world examples to explain my thought process and demonstrated my ability to research and adapt to new regulations.
Outcome: Cleared this round and advanced to the final interview.
Round 4 - Director Interview:
Questions Asked:
How do you prioritize tasks when handling multiple clients?
Describe a time you had to work under tight deadlines.
What do you think are the key qualities of a successful tax associate?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Your Approach: I emphasized my organizational skills and ability to handle pressure. For the “5 years” question, I aligned my goals with career growth at KPMG.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer for the role.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on accounting and tax fundamentals, especially practical applications.
Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Stay updated on recent tax laws and regulations.
Practice case studies to improve problem-solving skills.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. The technical rounds tested my knowledge, while the HR and director rounds assessed my fit for the role and company culture. I could have prepared more case studies in advance, but my strong fundamentals helped me succeed. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and soft skills, as KPMG values a well-rounded approach.
Application Process:
I applied through campus recruiting. Attended an open house event organized by the university career center and submitted my application via the university career website. Received an interview invitation a few weeks later.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in this role?
Describe a time you worked in a team.
Your Approach:
I focused on highlighting my relevant coursework and internship experiences.
Emphasized my interest in tax-related work and how it aligns with my career goals.
Shared a specific example of teamwork from a group project.
Outcome:
Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Explain the difference between direct and indirect taxes.
How would you handle a discrepancy in a client’s tax filing?
What software tools are you familiar with for tax preparation?
Your Approach:
Provided clear definitions and examples for the tax concepts.
Outlined a step-by-step approach to resolving discrepancies, emphasizing attention to detail.
Mentioned tools like TurboTax and Excel, and how I’ve used them.
Outcome:
Successfully advanced to the final round.
Round 3 - Case Study/Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked:
Given a hypothetical client scenario, how would you advise them on tax-saving strategies?
Describe a time you faced a tight deadline and how you managed it.
Your Approach:
Structured my advice for the client by considering their financial goals and applicable tax laws.
Shared a personal anecdote about prioritizing tasks and seeking help to meet a deadline.
Outcome:
Received positive feedback and was offered the position.
Preparation Tips:
Reviewed basic tax concepts and recent updates in tax laws.
Practiced behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Familiarized myself with common tax software tools.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was smooth and well-organized. I felt prepared for each round, but I could have practiced more case studies to feel even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to thoroughly research the company and role, and to practice articulating your experiences clearly.
Application Process: I applied through the company’s career portal after coming across the job posting. The process was straightforward, requiring me to submit my resume and fill out an application form.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Can you describe a challenge you faced in your previous employment and how you handled it?
Why do you want to leave your current job?
Why are you interested in this role at KPMG?
Your Approach: I focused on being honest and concise, highlighting my adaptability and problem-solving skills. For weaknesses, I mentioned areas I’m actively working on.
Outcome: I passed this round and was invited to the next technical rounds.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Basic accounting principles and concepts.
Tax-related questions, such as differences between direct and indirect taxes.
How would you handle a scenario where a client disagrees with your tax assessment?
Your Approach: I revised my accounting and tax fundamentals beforehand and used real-life examples to explain my answers. For the client scenario, I emphasized communication and collaboration.
Outcome: I advanced to the next technical round.
Round 3 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
More in-depth tax scenarios and calculations.
How do you stay updated with changing tax laws?
Describe a time when you had to work under tight deadlines.
Your Approach: I demonstrated my practical knowledge by solving the tax problems step-by-step. For the deadline question, I shared a specific example from my past experience.
Outcome: I cleared this round and moved to the final interview.
Round 4 - Director Interview:
Questions Asked:
Why do you think you’re a good fit for KPMG?
How do you handle pressure in a fast-paced environment?
What are your long-term career goals?
Your Approach: I aligned my answers with KPMG’s values and culture, showcasing my enthusiasm for the role and my ability to thrive under pressure.
Outcome: I received positive feedback and was selected for the role.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on accounting and tax fundamentals, especially practical applications.
Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Stay updated on recent changes in tax laws and regulations.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. I felt well-prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have practiced more behavioral questions to be even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and interpersonal skills, as KPMG values a balance of both.
Application Process: Applied through on-campus recruitment. The process included an initial interview with a senior manager on campus, followed by four in-person interviews with Managers and above at their office.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - On-Campus Interview with Senior Manager:
Questions Asked:
Tell me your story.
Why KPMG?
Why the Tax group?
What motivates you?
Strengths and weaknesses.
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my background and interests with KPMG’s values and the Tax group’s objectives. I highlighted my analytical skills and passion for problem-solving, which are crucial for the role. For weaknesses, I mentioned areas I’m actively working on, like public speaking, and how I’m improving.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - In-Person Interview with Manager:
Questions Asked:
Similar behavioral questions as Round 1, but more tailored to the Tax Associate role.
Scenario-based questions about handling deadlines and teamwork.
Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my answers for scenario-based questions, ensuring clarity and relevance. I also emphasized my ability to work under pressure and collaborate effectively.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 3 - In-Person Interview with Senior Manager:
Questions Asked:
More in-depth questions about my understanding of tax regulations.
How I stay updated with industry changes.
Your Approach: I discussed my coursework and any relevant projects or internships. I also mentioned following industry news and attending webinars to stay informed.
Outcome: Progressed to the final round.
Round 4 - In-Person Interview with Partner/Director:
Questions Asked:
High-level questions about my long-term career goals.
How I handle ambiguity in work.
Your Approach: I tied my career aspirations to the growth opportunities at KPMG and shared examples of how I’ve navigated uncertain situations in the past.
Outcome: Received a positive response and moved forward in the process.
Preparation Tips:
Research KPMG’s values and the Tax group’s role thoroughly.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Brush up on basic tax concepts and stay updated with recent industry trends.
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the role and company culture.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but well-structured. The key was to stay authentic and demonstrate how my skills aligned with the role. I could have prepared more specific examples for scenario-based questions. My advice to future candidates is to practice extensively and show enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Application Process: The application was part of a campus placement drive. The process began with an orientation session, followed by a group discussion and multiple interview rounds.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Orientation:
Details: The day started with an orientation session where the company provided an overview of the role, expectations, and the interview process.
Outcome: This was an introductory round to familiarize candidates with the process.
Round 2 - Group Discussion:
Details: Candidates were divided into groups and given topics to discuss. The topics were engaging and relevant to the role.
Your Approach: I actively participated, shared my viewpoints clearly, and ensured I listened to others while contributing constructively.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and moved to the next stage.
Round 3 - Technical Interview 1:
Questions Asked: Questions revolved around taxation concepts, recent updates in tax laws, and basic accounting principles.
Your Approach: I answered confidently, citing examples where applicable, and admitted when I wasn’t sure about something.
Outcome: Cleared this round.
Round 4 - Technical Interview 2:
Questions Asked: More in-depth questions on tax regulations, case studies, and problem-solving scenarios.
Your Approach: I took my time to analyze the case studies before responding and linked my answers to practical applications.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 5 - Technical Interview 3:
Questions Asked: Focused on situational judgment, ethical dilemmas in taxation, and how I would handle client interactions.
Your Approach: I emphasized my problem-solving skills and ethical stance while providing structured answers.
Outcome: Cleared this round as well.
Round 6 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked: Typical HR questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why KPMG?” and situational questions about teamwork and challenges.
Your Approach: I kept my answers concise, aligned them with the company’s values, and highlighted my adaptability.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the HR round.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on taxation laws and recent updates.
Practice group discussions on diverse topics to improve articulation and teamwork.
Prepare for situational and ethical questions by thinking of real-life scenarios.
Conclusion:
The entire process was rigorous but well-organized. While it was tiring, staying calm and focused helped me perform well. For future candidates, I’d advise thorough preparation on technical topics and practicing mock interviews to build confidence.