Many accounting students desire to work at the Big Four: EY,
Deloitte, KPMG, and PwC, finance leaders. They propose amazing opportunities to
understand, develop, and build a flourishing career. But, the competition is
hard. Thousands of talented candidates apply every year for limited spots. To
stand out, learn what successful candidates do and prepare well.
According to Statista, The Big Four lead in accounting, auditing
major companies, and advising governments. In 2024, their incorporated income
topped $212 billion, with Deloitte earning $67 billion. They hire over 1.5
million people, more than the U.S. military's 1.33 million active personnel.
Their influence grows as businesses and governments depend on their expertise.
This article offers tips to help you join top firms. From
networking to interview prep, we’ll cover everything you need to succeed. If
you're an accounting trainee, stay tuned for career advice in finance.
Deloitte
Deloitte excels in accounting, advisory, audit, consulting,
and tax. Deloitte uses technology to offer innovative, future-focused
solutions. Their expertise in risk, mergers, and modification makes them
perfect for difficult challenges.
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
PwC’s multinational network provides smooth services, making
it a reputable partner for businesses. PwC masters in assurance, tax, and
advisory, and prioritizes sustainability. They offer customized solutions for
industries like finance, healthcare, and technology.
EY (Ernst & Young)
EY prioritizes innovation, entrepreneurship, and building a
more useful working world. They focus on supporting startups, driving digital
transformation, and fostering sustainability. EY helps clients in finance,
manufacturing, and energy handle regulations and drive growth.
KPMG
KPMG highlights integrity, moral rules, and corporate
responsibility. They specialize in audit, tax, and advisory, and excel in risk
management and compliance. KPMG’s industry expertise covers sectors like
healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.
Tips to Get Into the Big Four Firms EA
Start Early with Internships
Securing internships during sophomore and junior summers is
vital. Experience in accounting or finance boosts your resume for competitive
Big Four internships.
Master the Application Process
Each firm has unique application procedures. Know their
requirements, like online screenings or resume submissions during interviews.
Be ready for many interview rounds, Big Four firms often conduct 4–6 rounds
compared to 2–3 at other companies.
Polish Your Resume
Ensure your resume is error-free and professionally formatted.
A strong resume shows you're ready for the corporate world and highlights
attention to detail.
Working at the Big Four Firms
Working at the Big Four offers invaluable learning
opportunities and challenges. Hasan Usmani, Director at EA, shares
insights from his Big Four experience.
Key Learnings
- Team
Integration and Client Engagement: Working with diverse teams and
clients built strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Time
Management: Balancing many deadlines during peak periods enhanced
prioritization and efficiency.
- Confidentiality:
Upholding client trust by safeguarding sensitive information was
paramount.
- Stakeholder
Management: Understanding and aligning stakeholder expectations
requires adaptability and diplomacy.
Working on global projects involved handling cultural
sensitivities and balancing different expectations.
How the Big 4 Are Leading
The Big 4 used to focus on advising clients, but now they’re
expanding into digital services. Deloitte is leading the charge, building a
strong global network, and hiring top talent for digital projects. E&Y is
following closely, growing its digital transformation team. KPMG and PwC are
also stepping up their game, becoming major players in the space.
The Big 4 have an edge because of their trusted
relationships with clients. They lead and organize digital services, pushing
competitors into smaller roles. The Big 4 are more flexible for digital
transformation due to their lack of outdated systems.
Conclusion
The Big Four firms represent unparalleled opportunities for
growth and success. With the right preparation and effort, you can build a
successful career.
Stay tuned for actionable advice and inspiring stories in
our blog. The financial world awaits your mark and starts your journey today!