KPMG Global Services (KGS) Tax Associate Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
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61

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Application Process: The application process involved three rounds of interviews. The key was to stay patient and ambitious while avoiding overconfidence. It was important to showcase strong individuality as well as teamwork skills.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, why I chose KPMG, and how I handle teamwork and individual tasks.
    • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my adaptability and ability to work in a team while also taking initiative.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Questions related to tax laws, accounting principles, and hypothetical scenarios to test problem-solving skills.
    • Your Approach: I relied on my academic knowledge and practical examples from internships to answer the questions.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 3 - Final Interview:

    • Questions Asked: A mix of behavioral and situational questions to assess cultural fit and long-term potential.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my passion for the field and how my values align with KPMG’s culture.
    • Outcome: Received the job offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on tax laws and accounting principles.
  • Practice behavioral questions to articulate teamwork and leadership experiences.
  • Research KPMG’s values and culture to align your answers.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was positive. Staying patient and confident without being overbearing was key. I would advise future candidates to prepare thoroughly for both technical and behavioral aspects and to showcase a balance of individuality and teamwork.

62

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Describe a situation where you demonstrated leadership.
      • How do you build and maintain professional networks?
      • Share an example of effective teamwork.
      • How do you ensure clear communication in a team setting?
    • Your Approach: I focused on providing specific examples from my academic and extracurricular activities. I highlighted instances where I took initiative, collaborated with others, and communicated effectively.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • How do you handle conflicts within a team?
      • Describe a time when you had to adapt to a sudden change.
      • What strategies do you use to stay proactive in your work?
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my problem-solving skills and adaptability. I shared a personal anecdote about a project where plans changed last minute and how I managed to deliver results.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 3 - Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?
      • Give an example of a time you went above and beyond for a team.
      • How do you handle feedback, especially if it’s critical?
    • Your Approach: I discussed my time management techniques and gave an example of a volunteer project where I took on extra responsibilities. I also talked about how I use feedback constructively.
    • Outcome: Cleared the final round and received the offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method for behavioral questions.
  • Reflect on past experiences related to leadership, teamwork, and communication.
  • Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges and feedback.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough but fair. The key was to stay authentic and provide clear, concise examples. I realized the importance of being proactive and adaptable, which aligns with KPMG’s expectations. For future candidates, I’d recommend preparing well-rounded stories that showcase your skills and align with the company’s values.

63

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus recruitment.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked behavioral questions, focusing on my past experiences and how I handled certain situations. The recruiter’s serious demeanor made me nervous as the interview progressed.
    • Your Approach: I started strong, answering confidently, but the nervousness got the better of me later in the interview.
    • Outcome: The outcome was not specified, but the experience was intense due to the interviewer’s serious tone.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice behavioral questions thoroughly to stay composed under pressure.
  • Work on maintaining confidence even if the interviewer’s demeanor is serious or intimidating.

Conclusion:
The interview was a mix of highs and lows. While I performed well initially, the nervousness later affected my performance. For future candidates, I’d advise practicing behavioral questions and staying calm, regardless of the interviewer’s demeanor.

64

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. After the first round interview on campus, I was selected for a second round at the office. The company arranged for travel and hosted a dinner the night before the interview to help candidates feel more comfortable.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Campus Interview:

  • Questions Asked: [Details not provided]

  • Your Approach: [Details not provided]

  • Outcome: Selected for the second round.

  • Round 2 - Office Interviews:

  • Questions Asked: [Details not provided]

  • Your Approach: [Details not provided]

  • Outcome: Received an offer within a week.

Preparation Tips:

  • The dinner the night before the interview was a great opportunity to network and ease nerves. Use such opportunities to connect with other candidates and company representatives.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was positive, and the company made efforts to ensure candidates felt comfortable. The dinner before the interview was a highlight and helped reduce stress. Future candidates should take advantage of such networking opportunities to make a good impression.

65

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: On-campus (via university career link)

Application Process: Submitted my resume through the university career link. Received an invitation for the first round of interviews on campus with a manager.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
    • Questions Asked: Approximately four to five behavioral questions. The questions were standard and nothing unexpected.
    • Your Approach: I focused on providing clear, structured answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to highlight my experiences and skills. I also prepared a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: The interview lasted about 30 minutes, and I felt confident about my responses. I was later informed that I had passed this round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice common behavioral questions using the STAR method to structure your answers.
  • Research the company and role thoroughly to prepare meaningful questions for the interviewer.
  • Dress professionally and arrive early to the interview to make a good impression.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was a positive experience. The questions were straightforward, and the interviewer was friendly. I would advise future candidates to prepare well for behavioral questions and to be ready to engage in a two-way conversation by asking insightful questions about the role and company.

66

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Application Process: I got the interview through a temp agency. The process was straightforward, and the agency helped coordinate the scheduling.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral and Situational Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Past situations: “Can you describe a time when you had to handle a difficult client or coworker?”
      • Future situations: “How would you handle a situation where you disagreed with a manager’s decision?”
    • Your Approach: For past situations, I used the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure my answers. For future scenarios, I focused on demonstrating adaptability and problem-solving skills.
    • Outcome: The interviewers seemed engaged, and I felt confident about my responses. I passed this round and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Research common situational questions for tax roles and think about how you would approach them.
  • Brush up on basic tax principles to ensure you can speak confidently about the field.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was a great learning experience. The managers were professional and asked insightful questions. If I could do anything differently, I would prepare more specific examples from my past work to make my answers even stronger. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing both behavioral and situational questions thoroughly and staying calm during the interview.

67

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through my school’s placement process. The initial interview was conducted on campus.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Partner Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interview was very casual, with general questions about my background and interest in the role. The partner also inquired about my GPA.
    • Your Approach: I tried to keep the conversation professional but relaxed, emphasizing my enthusiasm for the role and my relevant skills. However, I sensed a shift in their interest after discussing my GPA.
    • Outcome: Did not receive a call back. It felt like my GPA might have been a deciding factor.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was straightforward, but it highlighted the importance of meeting specific academic criteria for certain roles. For future candidates, I’d recommend ensuring your GPA aligns with the company’s expectations and being prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences compensate for any gaps.

68

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process included a casual pre-interview event on campus, followed by a 30-minute campus interview with a Senior Associate (Audit), and a 30-minute phone interview with a Tax Partner about a week or two later.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Campus Interview with Senior Associate (Audit):

    • Questions Asked: Mostly basic behavioral questions, general inquiries about myself, my career aspirations, and my accomplishments.
    • Your Approach: I focused on being genuine and concise, highlighting my relevant experiences and aligning my career goals with the role.
    • Outcome: The interviewer was very nice, and I felt the conversation went well.

  • Round 2 - Phone Interview with Tax Partner:

    • Questions Asked: Similar to the first round, with a focus on my direction/career aspirations and accomplishments.
    • Your Approach: I reiterated my enthusiasm for the role and provided specific examples of my achievements.
    • Outcome: The Tax Partner was also very pleasant, and the conversation flowed smoothly.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic behavioral questions and prepare concise yet impactful answers.
  • Research the company and the role to align your responses with their expectations.
  • Practice speaking clearly and confidently, especially for phone interviews.

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-related aspects of the role to tailor my answers better. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and ensure your responses reflect your genuine interest in the position.

69

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved attending an on-site interview at their office. The first part was a meet and greet with the tax department, followed by individual interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Meet and Greet:

    • Questions Asked: This was more of an informal interaction with the tax department team. No specific questions were asked; it was more about getting to know the team and the work environment.
    • Your Approach: I tried to engage in casual conversation, showing enthusiasm for the role and asking questions about the team’s projects and culture.
    • Outcome: This round was more about making a good impression and networking.

  • Round 2 - 1-on-1 Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer started with conversational questions but later moved to behavioral ones, such as “Tell me about a time you worked in a team” and “How do you handle tight deadlines?” No technical questions were asked.
    • Your Approach: I answered the behavioral questions using the STAR method, providing clear examples from my past experiences. I kept my responses concise and relevant.
    • Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my answers, and the conversation flowed naturally.

  • Round 3 - Presentation and Reception:

    • Questions Asked: After the interviews, all recruits were asked to give a short presentation. The topic wasn’t specified, so I chose to present on a recent project I had worked on.
    • Your Approach: I kept the presentation clear and engaging, focusing on key points and outcomes. During the reception, I networked with other candidates and team members.
    • Outcome: The presentation went well, and the reception was a great opportunity to connect with potential colleagues.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on behavioral questions and practice the STAR method.
  • Prepare a short presentation on a relevant topic in case it’s required.
  • Dress professionally and be ready for both formal and informal interactions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was well-organized and gave a good insight into the company’s culture. The behavioral questions were straightforward, and the presentation round was a unique way to showcase skills. I would advise future candidates to focus on clear communication and networking, as these were key aspects of the process.

70

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: Infopark, Kochi

Application Process: The interview process was conducted on-campus at Infopark, Kochi, and completed in a single day.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Test:

    • Questions Asked: The written test assessed language skills, Accounts/Finance knowledge, and Computer skills.
    • Your Approach: I reviewed basic accounting principles and brushed up on my language and computer skills beforehand.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Face-to-Face Interview with Managers:

    • Questions Asked: The interview included common interview questions and basic accounting-related questions.
    • Your Approach: I answered confidently, focusing on my understanding of accounting fundamentals and my problem-solving skills.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 3 - Face-to-Face Interview with HR:

    • Questions Asked: The HR round was more about fit and motivation, with questions about my interest in the role and career goals.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my enthusiasm for the role and how my skills align with the job requirements.
    • Outcome: Cleared the HR round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic accounting and finance concepts.
  • Practice common interview questions to articulate your thoughts clearly.
  • Ensure your language and computer skills are up to par, as these are tested in the written round.

Conclusion:
The overall interview experience was smooth, and the questions were manageable with proper preparation. I could have practiced more situational questions for the HR round, but the technical and written rounds went well. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be confident, and thoroughly prepare for the basics.

71

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Interview:
  • Questions Asked: The interview was conducted in a very laid-back and comfortable setting. The questions were conversational and not overly formal.
  • Your Approach: I approached the interview as a normal conversation, which helped me stay relaxed and confident.
  • Outcome: The interviewer seemed pleased with my responses, and the overall vibe was positive.

Conclusion:

The interview experience at KPMG Global Services was quite pleasant due to the relaxed environment. It felt more like a conversation than a formal interrogation, which made me feel at ease. For future candidates, I’d recommend being yourself and treating the interview as a dialogue rather than a test. This mindset can help reduce stress and allow your personality to shine through.

72

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Conversational Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell us about yourself.
      • Where are you from?
      • What are your interests?
      • What is your GPA, and do you think it reflects your abilities?
    • Your Approach:
      • I kept my answers concise and focused on relevant details about my background and interests. For the GPA question, I acknowledged my academic performance and highlighted other strengths that complement it.
    • Outcome:
      • The round was conversational and laid-back, and I felt it went well.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company and role thoroughly to align your answers with their expectations.
  • Be prepared to discuss your academic performance and how it relates to your skills.
  • Keep your responses short and to the point, as the interviewers prefer brevity.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was a positive experience. The conversational tone made it less stressful, but it was clear they expected candidates to be well-prepared. I would advise future candidates to focus on presenting themselves confidently and succinctly.

73

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process:
I applied through the KPMG Insight Look program, which is held a couple of times in October and November every year. The process involved spending a full day at the KPMG office, which included two interviews and a lunch session with a KPMG employee.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • General questions about my background and interest in tax.
    • Scenario-based questions related to tax compliance and regulations.
    • Behavioral questions like teamwork and problem-solving.

  • Your Approach:

    • I focused on aligning my answers with the role of a Tax Associate, emphasizing my analytical skills and attention to detail.
    • For scenario-based questions, I walked through my thought process step-by-step.

  • Outcome:

    • Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    • More in-depth technical questions about tax laws and compliance.
    • Case study to assess problem-solving abilities.
    • Questions about my long-term career goals and fit with KPMG.

  • Your Approach:

    • I used examples from my coursework and internships to answer technical questions.
    • For the case study, I structured my response clearly and logically.

  • Outcome:

    • Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic tax concepts and recent updates in tax laws.
  • Practice case studies and scenario-based questions.
  • Be prepared to discuss your resume and experiences in detail.

Conclusion:
The Insight Look program was a great opportunity to experience KPMG’s work culture firsthand. The interviews were challenging but fair, and the lunch session provided valuable insights into the company. I would advise future candidates to prepare thoroughly for both technical and behavioral questions and to engage actively during the lunch session to make a positive impression.

74

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied online for the specific position and received an email inviting me for a phone interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked informational questions about my resume, focusing on my background, experiences, and why I was interested in the Tax Associate role.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing my resume thoroughly and aligning my experiences with the job description. I also researched KPMG’s work in tax services to tailor my answers.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and was invited for an on-site interview after two weeks.

  • Round 2 - On-Site Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The on-site interview involved meeting with different people, including potential team members and managers. Questions ranged from technical tax-related topics to behavioral and situational questions. There was also a casual lunch with some team members.
    • Your Approach: I reviewed basic tax concepts and practiced behavioral questions using the STAR method. During the lunch, I focused on building rapport and showing my enthusiasm for the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: The interviewers seemed engaged, and I felt confident about my performance. Awaiting final results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Review your resume thoroughly and be ready to discuss any part of it in detail.
  • Research the company and the specific role to tailor your answers.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Brush up on technical topics relevant to the position (e.g., tax fundamentals for a Tax Associate role).
  • Use the lunch or informal sessions to showcase your personality and fit with the team.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was well-structured and gave me a good sense of the company culture. I felt prepared for the questions, but I could have practiced more technical tax scenarios to feel even more confident. My advice for future candidates is to balance technical preparation with interpersonal skills, as both are crucial for roles at KPMG.

75

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: I applied through an online application process, and after submitting my resume, I was contacted for a phone screening interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Screening:
    • Questions Asked:
      • When did you graduate?
      • Do you have a CPA license?
      • Can you describe your current work experience based on your resume?
      • Why do you want to leave your current job?
      • When are you available to start working?
      • Will you need sponsorship in the future?
    • Your Approach: I answered all the questions honestly and concisely, focusing on my qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. I also made sure to highlight my relevant experience and my readiness to transition into the new position.
    • Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my responses, and I was informed that I would be moving forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Review your resume thoroughly to ensure you can speak confidently about your experience.
  • Be prepared to discuss your career goals and reasons for applying to the role.
  • Practice answering common screening questions to ensure clarity and brevity.

Conclusion:
The phone screening was straightforward and focused on verifying my qualifications and fit for the role. I felt well-prepared, and the interviewer was professional and friendly. For future candidates, I’d recommend being clear and concise in your answers and ensuring you’re familiar with all the details on your resume.

76

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Application Process: I applied through my school’s website. It took around three weeks to receive an interview invitation. The interview was conducted on campus with a senior manager.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interview focused on behavioral questions.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing common behavioral questions and practicing my responses to ensure clarity and relevance.
    • Outcome: The interview lasted about 30 minutes. I received feedback after two months but did not receive an offer.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was straightforward, but the long wait for feedback was challenging. For future candidates, I recommend thoroughly preparing for behavioral questions and staying patient during the feedback period.

77

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Application Process: Walk-in interview. The process included two tests and personal interview rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Communication Test:

    • Questions Asked: Self-introduction.
    • Your Approach: I prepared a concise and clear self-introduction, focusing on my educational background, relevant skills, and interest in taxation.
    • Outcome: Passed this round. The test was straightforward and aimed at assessing communication skills.

  • Round 2 - Upcoming Test:

    • Details: The second test is yet to be conducted. I will update this post once I have more information about the format and questions.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice a clear and confident self-introduction.
  • Brush up on basic taxation concepts and communication skills.

Conclusion:
The first round was smooth, and I felt confident in my introduction. I’m looking forward to the next round and will ensure I’m well-prepared for it. For future candidates, focus on clarity and confidence in your communication.

78

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: I applied through a referral. The entire interview process took about 2 days.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Partner Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The partner focused on assessing my social skills and ability to work in a team. They also asked about my familiarity with Excel and how I handle deadlines.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my communication skills and shared examples of teamwork from past experiences. I also highlighted my proficiency in Excel and how I manage time effectively.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Manager Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The managers delved deeper into my Excel skills and asked situational questions about handling client data and meeting tight deadlines. They also inquired about my understanding of tax-related processes.
    • Your Approach: I demonstrated my Excel knowledge by explaining specific functions I’ve used in the past. For situational questions, I provided structured answers using the STAR method.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on Excel, especially functions like VLOOKUP, PivotTables, and data analysis tools.
  • Practice situational and behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be prepared to discuss teamwork and communication skills, as they are highly valued.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and focused on practical skills rather than theoretical knowledge. I felt confident because I had prepared well for Excel and behavioral questions. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on showcasing your soft skills and Excel proficiency, as these seem to be key deciding factors at KPMG.

79

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: On-campus (initial interview), Office visit (second interview)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. Submitted my resume to a recruiter at the career fair, which led to the first interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Partner Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interview was more about understanding who I am as a person. The partner asked about my background, interests, and why I was interested in the Tax Associate role. There were no technical questions; it was more conversational.
    • Your Approach: I focused on being genuine and sharing my passion for tax-related work. I also highlighted relevant coursework and any experiences that aligned with the role.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and was invited for the second interview.

  • Round 2 - Office Visit:

    • Questions Asked: This round was more of an inside look at the office environment. I interacted with team members and got a feel for the company culture. There were informal discussions about the role and the team’s work.
    • Your Approach: I asked questions about the team’s projects and how the Tax Associate role contributes to the bigger picture. I also tried to engage with everyone I met to leave a positive impression.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received an offer.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and more focused on fit and personality rather than technical skills. I think being authentic and showing enthusiasm for the role worked in my favor. For future candidates, I’d recommend researching the company culture and preparing to discuss how your background aligns with the role, even if the interview isn’t technical.

80

Company Name: KPMG Global Services (KGS)

Position: Tax Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through an online application process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:
    • Questions Asked: General questions about the role, background, and interest in the position.
    • Your Approach: Answered the questions as honestly as possible but felt nervous during the interview.
    • Outcome: Did not receive an offer, likely due to nervousness and English oral communication skills.

Conclusion:

The interview was a learning experience. I realized the importance of improving my English speaking skills and managing nervousness during interviews. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing mock interviews and working on communication skills to feel more confident.