Protiviti Research Associate (Internal Audit Team) Interview Questions & Experience Guide

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Protiviti Research Associate (Internal Audit Team) Interview Questions & Experience Guide

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The interview process started late, with the initial call scheduled for 9:30 AM, but the actual process began around 11:00 AM.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: The test consisted of general aptitude questions.

• Your Approach: The questions were straightforward, so I tackled them methodically.

• Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

• Questions Asked: The topic for the group discussion was based on current affairs. There were 8 members in the group.

• Your Approach: I actively participated, shared relevant points, and ensured I was articulate and respectful of others’ opinions.

• Outcome: The outcome of this round was not specified.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: Applied through campus placements. The process included an aptitude test, group discussion (GD), and a personal interview.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: The test was relatively easy, covering basic aptitude topics.
  • Your Approach: Prepared by revising fundamental aptitude concepts.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

  • Questions Asked: General topics related to current affairs and business scenarios.
  • Your Approach: Participated actively, ensuring clarity and relevance in points.
  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Personal Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Behavioral and situational questions, along with some technical queries related to internal audit.
  • Your Approach: Answered honestly and tried to align responses with the role requirements.
  • Outcome: The process ended here.

Conclusion:

The overall experience was exhausting, lasting the entire day. While the aptitude test and GD were manageable, the HR department’s lack of professionalism and courtesy was disappointing. Based on this experience, I would not recommend Protiviti to others due to their poor talent acquisition process.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process was straightforward, and the company was clear about the role and expectations from the beginning.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked about my understanding of the role, my interest in internal audit, and how my skills align with the job requirements. They also clarified my doubts about the company and the team.
  • Your Approach: I was honest about my knowledge and expressed genuine interest in learning more about the role. I also asked relevant questions to understand the company culture and expectations.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round with positive feedback.

• Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Questions revolved around basic audit concepts, my academic projects, and how I handle analytical tasks. The interviewer also gave a case study to assess my problem-solving approach.
  • Your Approach: I explained my projects in detail and linked them to the skills required for the role. For the case study, I broke down the problem systematically and presented a structured solution.
  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on basic audit concepts and be ready to discuss your academic projects in detail.
• Practice case studies to improve your problem-solving skills.
• Research the company and the role thoroughly to ask insightful questions during the interview.

Conclusion:
The overall interview experience was smooth and insightful. The interviewers were friendly and made the process hassle-free. I would advise future candidates to be clear about their skills and interests and to prepare well for both technical and HR rounds.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The interview process was conducted on-campus, and I applied through the placement cell of my college.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Written Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: The test included quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and basic accounting questions.
  • Your Approach: I focused on solving the quantitative and logical reasoning sections first, as they were my strengths. For accounting, I relied on my basic knowledge and eliminated incorrect options.
  • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

  • Questions Asked: The topic was “The Impact of Digital Transformation on Internal Auditing.”
  • Your Approach: I made sure to listen actively to others, contributed relevant points, and maintained a balanced perspective. I also cited examples of how technology is changing auditing practices.
  • Outcome: Selected for the next round.

• Round 3 - Personal Interview (PI):

  • Questions Asked: There were four PIs, each lasting at least 25 minutes. Questions ranged from technical topics like risk assessment and audit procedures to behavioral questions like handling conflicts in a team.
  • Your Approach: For technical questions, I structured my answers logically, using examples from my coursework. For behavioral questions, I used the STAR method to frame my responses.
  • Outcome: Cleared all four PIs and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on basic accounting and auditing concepts.
• Practice logical reasoning and quantitative aptitude regularly.
• Stay updated on current trends in internal auditing, especially digital transformation.
• Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt confident in my preparation, especially for the technical rounds. One thing I could have improved is practicing more case studies related to internal auditing. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and soft skills, as Protiviti values a well-rounded approach.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Campus recruitment process conducted virtually on MS Teams.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: General aptitude questions covering quantitative, logical, and verbal reasoning.

• Your Approach: Focused on time management and accuracy, revisiting basic concepts beforehand.

• Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

• Questions Asked: Topics related to current affairs, business scenarios, or case studies.

• Your Approach: Actively participated, structured thoughts clearly, and listened to others’ points.

• Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Case Interview (2-3 Rounds):

• Questions Asked: Case studies related to internal audit scenarios, problem-solving, and analytical thinking.

• Your Approach: Broke down the problem, asked clarifying questions, and proposed structured solutions.

• Outcome: Performed well and moved forward.

• Round 4 - HR Personal Interview (PI):

• Questions Asked: Behavioral questions, career goals, and situational responses.

• Your Approach: Answered honestly, aligned responses with the role, and showcased enthusiasm.

• Outcome: Final selection.

Preparation Tips:

• Revise aptitude basics (quantitative, logical, verbal).
• Practice group discussions on diverse topics.
• Familiarize yourself with case study frameworks.
• Prepare for behavioral questions with the STAR method.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth and well-organized. Going prepared for each round was crucial. Practicing case studies and GD topics in advance helped a lot. For future candidates, focus on clarity, confidence, and staying calm during interviews. All the best!

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds, starting with an aptitude test, followed by a group discussion (GD), and finally a personal interview (PI).

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: The aptitude test included questions on quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and verbal ability.
  • Your Approach: I focused on solving the quantitative and logical reasoning questions first, as they were my strengths, and then moved on to the verbal section.
  • Outcome: Cleared the aptitude round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

  • Questions Asked: The GD topic was given to all candidates, and we were asked to share our views on it.
  • Your Approach: I made sure to listen to others’ points before presenting my own, ensuring my points were clear and relevant. I also tried to maintain a balanced participation without dominating the discussion.
  • Outcome: Performed well and advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Personal Interview (PI):

  • Questions Asked: The PI questions were similar to those asked in the first round, focusing on my understanding of internal audit, problem-solving skills, and situational responses.
  • Your Approach: I answered confidently, providing examples from my academic projects to demonstrate my analytical skills and knowledge of the field.
  • Outcome: Cleared the PI round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

• Practice aptitude tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
• Work on communication skills for GD, ensuring clarity and relevance in your points.
• Brush up on basic concepts related to internal audit and be prepared to discuss your academic projects in detail.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared, but I could have practiced more GD topics to handle unexpected ones better. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on all three rounds equally and staying calm during the PI to articulate your thoughts clearly.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - HR Interview:

• Questions Asked: The interview was conducted in a very relaxed and friendly manner. The questions were general and aimed at understanding my background, interests, and fit for the role.

• Your Approach: I answered honestly and tried to keep the conversation natural, focusing on my enthusiasm for the role and my relevant skills.

• Outcome: The interviewer was very kind, and the round went well.

• Round 2 - Technical Interview:

• Questions Asked: The questions were related to internal audit processes, risk assessment, and basic accounting principles. The interviewer also asked about my previous projects and how they relate to the role.

• Your Approach: I structured my answers clearly, linking my academic knowledge to practical scenarios. I also highlighted my problem-solving skills.

• Outcome: The interviewer appreciated my clarity and understanding of the subject.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on basic accounting and auditing concepts.
• Be prepared to discuss your previous projects and how they align with the role.
• Practice answering questions in a structured manner.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview experience with Protiviti was very positive. The interviewers were supportive and created a comfortable environment. I would advise future candidates to stay calm, be themselves, and focus on their strengths. Protiviti seems like a great place to work!

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: English, reasoning, and maths questions.
  • Your Approach: Focused on accuracy and time management.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 2 - Essay Writing:

  • Questions Asked: Easy topic to test vocabulary and writing skills.
  • Your Approach: Structured the essay with clear points and good vocabulary.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 3 - Interview (Director and Panel):

  • Questions Asked: Similar to Google-style questions, repeated for every candidate.
  • Your Approach: Stayed calm and answered logically.
  • Outcome: Unpredictable; couldn’t gauge selection.

Preparation Tips:

• Practice aptitude tests for English, reasoning, and maths.
• Work on vocabulary and essay writing skills.
• Prepare for common interview questions, especially those similar to Google-style questions.

Conclusion:
The interview process was straightforward, but the selection criteria were unclear. Despite answering questions well, the outcome was unpredictable. My advice is to focus on all rounds equally and not underestimate any part of the process.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved multiple stages, starting with an aptitude test (elimination round), followed by a group discussion, and then three rounds of personal interviews.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: The test covered quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and verbal ability.
  • Your Approach: I focused on time management, attempting the easier questions first and then moving to the more challenging ones.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: The topic was related to current trends in the internal audit industry.
  • Your Approach: I actively participated, shared relevant points, and ensured I listened to others to build on their ideas.
  • Outcome: Selected for the next round.

• Round 3 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Questions about internal audit processes, risk assessment, and my understanding of compliance frameworks.
  • Your Approach: I answered based on my academic knowledge and internship experience, providing examples where possible.
  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 4 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Behavioral questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why Protiviti?” and situational questions about teamwork and problem-solving.
  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise, aligned them with the role, and highlighted my adaptability and teamwork skills.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 5 - Final Interview with Senior Management:

  • Questions Asked: In-depth discussion about my long-term career goals, how I handle pressure, and my understanding of Protiviti’s work culture.
  • Your Approach: I emphasized my passion for internal audit and how my skills align with the company’s values.
  • Outcome: Received a positive response and was selected for the role.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on aptitude topics like quantitative and logical reasoning.
• Stay updated with current trends in internal audit and compliance.
• Practice group discussions to improve communication and teamwork skills.
• Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences.

Conclusion:
The entire process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt the key to success was staying calm and confident throughout. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation for each stage and being authentic in your responses. Good luck!

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied via campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: Reasoning, English, and Maths.
  • Your Approach: Prepared by revising basic aptitude topics and practicing sample questions.
  • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

  • Topics Given: Cricket and mental health.
  • Your Approach: Stayed calm, listened actively, and contributed relevant points to the discussion.
  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - One-on-One Interview:

  • Questions Asked: “Number of traffic lights in Delhi.”
  • Your Approach: Used a structured approach to estimate the number, considering factors like population density and road infrastructure.
  • Outcome: Provided a logical estimate and moved forward.

Preparation Tips:

• Practice guesstimates and marketing strategies as they are commonly asked in interviews.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the questions were manageable with proper preparation. I would advise future candidates to focus on logical reasoning and current affairs, especially for group discussions and guesstimates.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: I applied via a walk-in interview before July 2023.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - One-on-one Round:

  • Questions Asked:
    1. What are your hobbies?
    2. Tell us about yourself.
  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and relevant to the role, highlighting my interest in research and analytical skills.
  • Outcome: I passed this round and moved to the next stage.

• Round 2 - Aptitude Test Round:

  • Questions Asked: Geographical questions were part of the test.
  • Your Approach: I reviewed basic geographical concepts beforehand and stayed calm during the test.
  • Outcome: The results of this round were not explicitly shared, but I progressed further in the process.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on general knowledge, especially geographical topics.
• Practice speaking about yourself and your hobbies in a professional manner.
• Be prepared for aptitude tests that may include diverse topics.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was straightforward. I felt confident in the one-on-one round, but the aptitude test was a bit unexpected. For future candidates, I’d recommend preparing for a variety of question types and staying calm under pressure.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved an aptitude test followed by a group discussion (GD) round.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: The test included quantitative, reasoning, general knowledge, and situational questions. Additionally, there was an essay-writing component.
  • Your Approach: I focused on solving the quant and reasoning sections first, as they were time-sensitive. For the essay, I ensured clarity and coherence in my writing.
  • Outcome: I cleared this round and moved on to the GD.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

  • Questions Asked: The topic for the GD was not specified, but the emphasis was on clear and loud communication.
  • Your Approach: I made sure to articulate my points clearly and confidently, contributing as much as possible to the discussion.
  • Outcome: The results were announced quickly, and I advanced to the next stage.

Preparation Tips:

• For the aptitude test, practice quant and reasoning questions regularly. General knowledge can be brushed up by reading current affairs.
• For the GD, focus on speaking clearly and confidently. Don’t hesitate to voice your opinions, but ensure they are well-structured.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-organized. The key takeaway for me was the importance of clear communication, especially in the GD round. Future candidates should practice speaking confidently and ensure they are well-prepared for the aptitude test.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Location: Not specified

Application Process: Applied via a recruitment consultant and was interviewed in May 2022.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Resume Shortlist Round:

  • Questions Asked: N/A (Resume-based shortlisting)
  • Your Approach: Ensured my resume was crisp and highlighted relevant skills and experiences.
  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 2 - One-on-one Round:

  • Questions Asked:
    • Walk us through your resume.
    • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  • Your Approach:
    • For the resume walkthrough, I focused on key experiences and skills relevant to the role.
    • For the 5-year question, I aligned my career goals with the company’s growth and my professional development.
  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

• Appear confident and be precise in your answers.
• Research well about the company to align your responses with their values and goals.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the questions were straightforward. Being well-prepared and confident helped me perform well. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough research about the company and practicing common interview questions to articulate your thoughts clearly.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The process began in August and concluded in September. It included multiple rounds: an aptitude test, two HR rounds, and two technical rounds. The entire process took around a month to complete.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: The test covered reasoning, verbal ability, general knowledge, and essay writing.

• Your Approach: I focused on practicing reasoning and verbal ability questions beforehand and brushed up on current affairs for the GK section. For the essay, I ensured clarity and structure in my writing.

• Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.

• Round 2 - HR Interview:

• Questions Asked: Questions revolved around my background, why I chose Protiviti, and my understanding of the role.

• Your Approach: I highlighted my relevant skills and expressed genuine interest in the company and the role.

• Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Technical Round:

• Questions Asked: Questions were related to internal audit processes, risk assessment, and basic accounting principles.

• Your Approach: I revised core concepts of auditing and accounting and linked my academic knowledge to practical scenarios.

• Outcome: Cleared this round.

• Round 4 - Technical Interview:

• Questions Asked: More in-depth questions on internal audit, case studies, and situational judgment.

• Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my answers for situational questions and referred to real-world examples for case studies.

• Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received the offer.

Preparation Tips:

• Focus on reasoning and verbal ability for the aptitude test.
• Brush up on general knowledge, especially current affairs.
• Revise core concepts of internal audit and accounting for the technical rounds.
• Practice structuring answers using the STAR method for situational questions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was thorough but manageable with proper preparation. I could have spent more time on case studies to feel even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, prepare well, and be honest in your responses.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds, starting with an online aptitude test, followed by group discussion, technical rounds, a director round, and finally an HR round if selected.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: The test was conducted online and included general aptitude questions.

• Your Approach: I focused on time management and accuracy, ensuring I answered as many questions as possible within the given time.

• Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

• Questions Asked: The topic given was “Impact of Technology on Kids.”

• Your Approach: I structured my points logically, highlighting both positive and negative impacts while actively listening and responding to others.

• Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Technical Round:

• Questions Asked: Questions were based on my resume, such as my past projects, technical skills, and understanding of internal audit.

• Your Approach: I confidently explained my experiences and linked them to the role, emphasizing my analytical skills.

• Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 4 - Technical Round:

• Questions Asked: Further technical discussions about my resume and deeper questions about internal audit processes.

• Your Approach: I provided detailed answers, using examples from my academic and project work.

• Outcome: Successfully cleared.

• Round 5 - Director Round:

• Questions Asked: High-level questions about my career goals, why I chose Protiviti, and situational scenarios.

• Your Approach: I aligned my answers with the company’s values and demonstrated my enthusiasm for the role.

• Outcome: Selected for the HR round.

• Round 6 - HR Round:

• Questions Asked: Typical HR questions about salary expectations, relocation, and general fit for the company culture.

• Your Approach: I was honest and professional, ensuring my responses reflected my genuine interest in the role.

• Outcome: Awaiting final results.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on aptitude topics like quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and verbal skills.
• Practice group discussions on diverse topics to improve articulation and teamwork.
• Revise your resume thoroughly and be prepared to discuss every detail.
• Research the company and role to align your answers with their expectations.

Conclusion:
The interview process was comprehensive but well-structured. I felt confident in my preparation, especially for the technical rounds. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing mock interviews and staying calm under pressure. Overall, it was a great learning experience!

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied via campus placement before August 2020.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - HR Interview:

• Questions Asked: General HR questions about background, motivation, and fit for the role.

• Your Approach: Answered honestly, highlighting relevant skills and enthusiasm for the role.

• Outcome: Passed to the next round.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

• Questions Asked: Topics related to current affairs or business scenarios.

• Your Approach: Actively participated, shared structured thoughts, and listened to others.

• Outcome: Cleared the round.

• Round 3 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: Quantitative and logical reasoning questions.

• Your Approach: Practiced beforehand and managed time efficiently during the test.

• Outcome: Qualified for the next stage.

• Round 4 - Case Study:

• Questions Asked: Guesstimates and problem-solving scenarios.

• Your Approach: Broke down the problem, used logical assumptions, and presented a structured solution.

• Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

• Round 5 - Technical/Interview:

• Questions Asked: Market research skills and guesstimate questions.

• Your Approach: Demonstrated analytical thinking and practical application of concepts.

• Outcome: Successfully cleared the interview.

Preparation Tips:

• Focus on market research skills and practice guesstimate questions.
• Brush up on aptitude topics like quantitative and logical reasoning.
• Stay updated on current affairs for group discussions.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough but manageable with proper preparation. Practicing guesstimates and improving market research skills were key. Future candidates should focus on these areas and stay confident throughout the process.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds, starting with a resume shortlist, followed by a HireVue interview, a group discussion, and finally a one-on-one round.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

  • Details: The first step was a resume screening round. Ensure your resume is concise and avoids unnecessary details like photos, gender, age, or address.
  • Outcome: Successfully shortlisted for the next round.

• Round 2 - HireVue Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Basics of accounting.
  • Your Approach: Prepared by revising fundamental accounting concepts and principles.
  • Outcome: Cleared this round and moved to the next stage.

• Round 3 - Group Discussion:

  • Details: This round involved a group case study with 3-4 questions to be answered collaboratively.
  • Your Approach: Focused on active participation, clear communication, and logical reasoning to contribute effectively to the discussion.
  • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

• Round 4 - One-on-One Round:

  • Questions Asked: Primarily focused on soft skills and the tools used for market research.
  • Your Approach: Highlighted relevant soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving, and discussed tools like primary and secondary research methods.
  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

• Focus on revising basic accounting concepts for the HireVue interview.
• Practice group discussions and case studies to improve collaboration and communication skills.
• Be prepared to discuss your soft skills and familiarity with research tools in the one-on-one round.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough and tested both technical and soft skills. Ensuring a well-structured resume and being prepared for each round’s specific requirements were key to success. For future candidates, focus on clarity in communication and a strong grasp of the basics relevant to the role.

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Application Process: The application process involved multiple rounds, starting with an aptitude test, followed by a group discussion, and then several interview rounds, culminating in an HR round. Each round was an elimination round.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked: The test lasted for 1 hour and included quantitative, logical reasoning, and verbal ability questions.

• Your Approach: I focused on time management, attempting easier questions first and leaving the tougher ones for later. I also double-checked my answers before submitting.

• Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

• Round 2 - Group Discussion:

• Questions Asked: The topic was related to current trends in internal auditing. The discussion lasted for 30 minutes.

• Your Approach: I actively participated, presenting clear points while also listening to others. I ensured my contributions were relevant and well-structured.

• Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

• Round 3 - Technical Interview 1:

• Questions Asked: Questions revolved around internal audit processes, risk assessment, and compliance standards.

• Your Approach: I answered confidently, citing examples from my coursework and internships. For technical terms, I explained them in simple terms.

• Outcome: Moved to the next round.

• Round 4 - Technical Interview 2:

• Questions Asked: More in-depth questions on audit methodologies, case studies, and problem-solving scenarios.

• Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my responses and linked my answers to real-world applications.

• Outcome: Cleared this round as well.

• Round 5 - HR Round:

• Questions Asked: Typical HR questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why Protiviti?” and situational questions.

• Your Approach: I kept my answers concise, highlighting my skills and alignment with the company’s values.

• Outcome: Successfully cleared the final round.

Preparation Tips:

• Brush up on aptitude topics like quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and verbal skills.

• Practice group discussions on current business and audit-related topics.

• Revise internal audit concepts, risk management, and compliance standards.

• Prepare for HR questions by researching the company and aligning your answers with their values.

Conclusion:

The entire process was rigorous but well-structured. What worked for me was staying calm and organized in each round. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation and practicing mock interviews to build confidence. Good luck!

[anonymous]

Company Name: Protiviti

Position: Research Associate (Internal Audit Team)

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied via campus placement in May 2021.

Interview Rounds:

• Round 1 - Technical Interview:

• Questions Asked:

  • Questions about the equity market, derivatives, and capital market.

• Your Approach: Focused on explaining the concepts clearly and providing examples where applicable.

• Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

• Round 2 - HR Interview:

• Questions Asked:

  • General HR questions about background, motivation, and fit for the role.

• Your Approach: Answered honestly and aligned responses with the company’s values and role requirements.

• Outcome: Cleared the HR round.

• Round 3 - Aptitude Test:

• Questions Asked:

  • Quantitative and logical reasoning questions.

• Your Approach: Practiced beforehand and managed time effectively during the test.

• Outcome: Passed the aptitude test.

• Round 4 - Final Interview:

• Questions Asked:

  • Combined technical and behavioral questions to assess overall fit.

• Your Approach: Balanced technical knowledge with soft skills and teamwork examples.

• Outcome: Received a positive response and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

• Be thorough in your finance concepts, especially topics like equity markets, derivatives, and capital markets.
• Practice aptitude tests to improve speed and accuracy.
• Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the role.

Conclusion:
The interview process was comprehensive but manageable with proper preparation. Focusing on core finance concepts and practicing aptitude tests helped a lot. For future candidates, I’d recommend being confident and concise in your answers while showcasing your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.