[Peanut Butter is Good]

I am going to apply to these jobs, obviously. But, I’ve been under the impression lately that they already know exactly who they want, and this is simply going to be the culmination of long-time recruitment, or shoe-ins who have already gone through an internship program. Being that I don’t fall into either of those categories, am I basically just not a “real” candidate, and are these posting sort of just a formality?

[abranaugh]

Even if they are, I don't think it would hurt to just apply and see what happens.

[Sir Study Alot]

My guess is they are mainly looking for experienced hires on their website or does the posting say entry level? I am sure the recrutiers check every resource they have available, so if a unique candidate applies on their website they will interview them. Its also possible that their internship program and traditional recruiting programs are not providing enough qualified candidates. One thing is for certain…………its recruiting season!!!!

Passed all 4 exams in 2014!

[Mayo]

Typically, job postings are put up when the recruiters have exhausted their internal network or expect that it might be exhausted.

So they potentially might be reaching out to external referrals, but it's not guaranteed. However, I will say that it's practically a huge long shot to apply without any public experience. Although I've heard of people from industry going to Big 4, most of those have been referrals rather than applying online.

Not trying to discourage you, but I figured you'd rather have all the info. I still think you should play the odds and apply. However, targeting smaller firms and leveraging/building your network is probably a better bet in terms of job search.

Mayo, BBA, Macc

[fuzyfro89]

Peanut butter:

Are you going to apply online only and leave it there?

I'd recommend you either start by contacting recruiters at both firms on Linkedin and try to get in front of someone either before or after you apply to make sure someone spends at least 30 seconds giving you a chance.

Odds are they get tons of submissions online, and some degree fewer actually contact someone or gets referred by someone internally (even if they only spoke once).

Your best shot is someone currently at Big 4 firm who has a similar background as you… (current role) to public… as they will sympathize with your challenge and will likely at least forward your information to HR if you're in the ballpark.

[Anonymous]

@Peanut Butter is Good: Are you applying to entry-level position? Where do you see those postings? I want to apply for big 4 too but I only saw manager level position on their websites?

[Anonymous]

I think it's great that you are going to apply. The opportunity is there so go for it!

From personal experience, that is how I got into Big 4. I did formal recruiting on campus and did not get an offer and saw postings on the company's website and applied that way and certainly received an offer. Like you, I never did a Big 4 internship either. Even though they may already know the type of candidate they are targeting, you are a “real” candidate and there are many nontraditional ways to get into Big 4.

Best wishes and keep us posted on how things go.

[Anonymous]

@2014CPA: when did you apply for the position in Big 4? did you apply around August/September?

[Anonymous]

@CPANB I applied around November/December

[AScott89]

Does anybody know when Deloitte starts the interviewing process for next year's positions? I applied for a staff audit position that says fall 2015 as the date. Would they start interviewing sometime this year or early next year?

BEC-65
AUD-72(8 '14); 68(11 '14)
FAR-
REG-

[Anonymous]

@2014CPA: Thank you. I'm just curious about your application process to big 4. how long did you have to wait to get an interview after you applied? Do you apply for the same offices that you applied when you were at school?

I am in the same situation. I applied to Big 4 through school. I got into 2nd round interview with 2 of the big 4 but I ended up not getting any offer. However, I'm still interested in position in Big 4 and I really want to reapply for the firms again.

Thank you so much!!!

[Anonymous]

@AScott89: I'm pretty sure that they interview for 2015 position around October and November this year

[AScott89]

Thanks @CPANB

BEC-65
AUD-72(8 '14); 68(11 '14)
FAR-
REG-

[alecia18210]

I had the same thought as well. I applied anyway and staying hopeful. I have been out school for 5 years now with a 3.49(hopefully they round it off;-)

Roger CPA Review + Ninja Audio + Wiley Test Bank+Ninja MCQ

FAR PASSED 7/14
AUD 72(2x)- 8/2014, Rematch 04/15
REG 02/2015
BEC 06/2015

"I can do all things through Christ Jesus who gives me strength". Philippians 4:13

[005]

I'm going to be applying as well.

Does anyone know how much having 3 out of 4 parts of CPA exam helps in getting an interview? Have been out of school for 2 years and working at a small local CPA firm.

BEC - ✔
REG - ✔
AUD - ✔
FAR - 11/29/14

CPAExcel, Ninja MCQs, and a sh*t ton of coffee

[AScott89]

Passing three parts and having some public accounting experience should help. Have you worked at the firm all two years? If so, you're not that far from being licensed. If I were a hiring manager that would definitely put you towards the top of my list.

BEC-65
AUD-72(8 '14); 68(11 '14)
FAR-
REG-

[Author]

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