TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AND MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES.
As an Associate Consultant with EY-Parthenon Singapore, I am involved in addressing the Chief Experience Officer (CXO)’s agenda in Strategy.
My responsibilities include conducting fact-based analyses to evaluate market dynamics, growth opportunities and risk factors for our clients, delivering insights to catalyse value creation, identifying avenues for operational enhancements, cost optimisation and revenue enhancement. Additionally, I work closely with clients to devise and execute strategies aimed at achieving sustainable growth and profitability.
HOW LONG DID YOU TAKE TO SECURE THE JOB?
I landed a full-time position approximately 10 months before graduation. It all started when I applied for the EY NextGen Women Case Competition in May 2023. Following a rigorous initial screening process, I was chosen among 12 participants from across Singapore. I stood out as the sole representative from NTU and STEM disciplines. My interview timeline was expedited by the company following the competition in July 2023. After a series of interviews, I received a job offer in October 2023.
WHAT WERE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACED WHEN LOOKING FOR A JOB AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
Transitioning from Computer Science to Banking and Consulting posed a challenge for me. While I was confident in my technical abilities, I soon realised the importance of showcasing skills beyond coding. Throughout the competition and ensuing interviews, I shifted my focus to strategic analysis, business acumen and client engagement. It was a journey of growth, where I had to demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also adeptness in addressing business challenges. Embracing this shift required flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills.
Throughout my third year, I diligently attended company events, gaining insights into their recruitment processes. Recognising the importance of working smart while working hard, I understood that interviews alone were not the exclusive path to employment. I leveraged unconventional avenues such as competitions to bypass the standard interview procedures. While my peers were just starting to plan their job applications, I had already begun my interviews.
To further prepare myself, I proactively participated in case competitions such as NTU PEAK, while taking on a leadership position with an NTU student club. As Vice-President of the club, I improved my communication skills by working with different stakeholders and managing and motivating the team.
WHAT ARE SOME STRATEGIES THAT YOU USED TO LAND YOURSELF THIS POSITION?
I attended CAO networking events to learn from Consulting professionals, which helped me better understand the industry. Through hands-on experiences, I developed a well-rounded skill set, making me a strong candidate for a Consulting role with EY-Parthenon.
Recognising that a resume is the first gateway in the recruitment process, I put in effort to ensure mine is flawless. Knowing that even small details can make a big difference, I meticulously refined every aspect, including the formatting. I also sought feedback from mentors I connected with through CAO’s LevelUP! mentorship programme. Their insights from an employer’s perspective helped ensure my resume meets recruiters’ expectations and stands out from competition. While some may overlook the importance of a cover letter, I use it as a platform to express my genuine interest and enthusiasm for the role.
At company-hosted networking events, I connected with recent graduate hires who had first-hand experiences with the recruitment process. I leveraged insights from their interview experiences to prepare myself for my own interviews. Additionally, I conducted thorough research on the company and its candidate expectations. This comprehensive preparation allowed me to approach interviews with confidence, presenting myself as a well-prepared candidate. It also enabled me to ask thoughtful questions, helping me stand out from other candidates.
SHARE YOUR TIPS AND ADVICE WITH FELLOW STUDENTS WHO WILL BE LOOKING FOR JOBS OR INTERNSHIPS SOON.
First, start your job search early. Don’t wait until your final semester or after your exams to begin. Embrace continuous learning by actively participating in interviews and refining your approach as you go. Many companies prioritise early applications, which can give you a competitive edge over your peers.
Second, engage in networking events and build genuine connections. Take the initiative to interact with professionals and seek opportunities to learn from their experiences. I was pleasantly surprised to find that many people are eager to offer support and share valuable insights.
Third, keep track of your job applications. It is easy to get caught up in the process and lose track of which companies you have applied to. I created a spreadsheet to organise my efforts. By focusing on jobs that align with your goals and tracking your applications, you can maximise your chances of securing meaningful opportunities while managing your academic commitments.
Finally, building and maintaining positive relationships with HR professionals is invaluable for your career journey. Even if you are not selected for a role, follow up with the HR representative to thank them and seek feedback on your interview performance. This shows your commitment to personal growth and leaves a lasting impression. By keeping communication open, you stay on their radar for future roles that may become available.
