Is it easy to get hired at KPMG?

KPMG is one of the Big Four accounting firms and is considered a prestigious place to work. However, getting hired at KPMG is quite competitive given the firm’s reputation and the attractive compensation and benefits it offers. In this article, we’ll look at what it takes to get hired at KPMG and the key requirements and qualifications you need in order to land a job there.

What are the requirements to get hired at KPMG?

Here are some of the key requirements and qualifications KPMG looks for when hiring candidates:

• Education: You need at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably in accounting, finance, business, or a related field. KPMG primarily hires candidates with accounting degrees and CPA qualifications.
• GPA: Having a strong GPA (3.5 or higher) makes you a more competitive applicant.
• Relevant experience: Related internships or work experience in accounting, auditing, tax, advisory or financial services are a big plus.
• Technical skills: Proficiency with accounting software, databases, Excel, PowerPoint and strong financial modeling skills are required.
• Communication and interpersonal skills: You need strong written and verbal communication skills to interface with clients.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership experience through work experience, extracurriculars or volunteering is valued.
• Problem-solving skills: You must have strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to perform well in the role.
• Attention to detail: Having an eye for detail is critical in accounting and financial services roles.

Essentially, KPMG is looking for candidates with a strong accounting background academically and professionally. Technical skills and knowledge coupled with soft skills like communication, leadership and critical thinking enable candidates to pass the rigorous recruitment process.

What majors and degrees do KPMG hire from?

Here are the most common majors and degrees that successful KPMG hires tend to have:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Business Administration
• Economics
• Information Systems
• Mathematics

Accounting is by far the most popular and applicable major. The majority of hires at KPMG have accounting degrees and strong academic records from reputable business schools and universities. Degrees like finance, business administration and economics are also quite common. Quantitative majors like information systems and math are also desirable and indicate strong analytical abilities.

While you don’t need an accounting degree to be hired at KPMG, those with accounting degrees start off with a significant advantage. Most non-accounting degree holders eventually need to go back and get a Master’s in Accounting or pass the CPA exam.

What skills and experience are most important?

Here are the most vital skills and credentials KPMG looks for:

• Accounting knowledge: Expertise in accounting principles, standards and methods.
• Auditing skills: Understanding of auditing processes, regulations and documentation.
• Research skills: Ability to research and analyze complex accounting issues.
• Attention to detail: Careful and meticulous with numerical data and documentation.
• Analytical thinking: Able to critically analyze financial information and think strategically.
• Teamwork: Collaborates effectively with colleagues and clients.
• Communication: Writes and presents financial insights clearly and persuasively.
• Time management: Meets deadlines and manages multiple priorities.
• CPA license: Having an active CPA license is highly preferred and required for certain roles.
• Leadership: Prior experience leading teams or projects.

While academic knowledge is important, practical work experience and soft skills tend to differentiate candidates the most in interviews. Experience through internships and being able to showcase analytical, communication, leadership and project management abilities is key.

What is the recruitment and hiring process at KPMG?

Here are the typical steps in KPMG’s hiring process:

1. Online application and resume screening: Apply online and submit your resume for initial screening.
2. Video interview: If shortlisted, you will be invited to a one-way video interview to assess communication skills.
3. First round interviews: Face to face interviews focused on resume review, technical questions and behavioral assessment.
4. Final round interviews: You will have a series of final round interviews including case studies, presentations and panel interviews.
5. Reference and background checks: References will be contacted, followed by extensive background checks.
6. Offer letter: If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter stipulating compensation, benefits and other terms.

The process is highly competitive, with only about 3% of applicants receiving job offers at KPMG. It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months to complete the full recruitment process depending on role and department.

What interview questions does KPMG ask?

Here are some common technical and behavioral questions asked at KPMG interviews:

Technical Questions

• Walk me through the three financial statements.
• How would you calculate the value of inventory using different inventory costing methods?
• What are the steps involved in the audit process?
• How do you determine sample size for audit testing?
• What are the differences between IFRS and GAAP accounting standards?
• What does the Sarbanes-Oxley Act require?

Behavioral Questions

• Tell me about yourself and walk me through your resume.
• Why do you want to work at KPMG?
• Describe a time you overcame a challenge on a team project.
• Have you ever made a mistake? How did you handle it?
• When dealing with a conflict at work, what steps would you take to resolve it?
• Where do you see your career in 5 years?

Preparing examples and stories to showcase your skills, knowledge and experience related to these kinds of questions is crucial to acing KPMG interviews.

What salaries and benefits can you expect at KPMG?

KPMG offers competitive salaries and benefits for roles at all levels. Here is an overview:

Besides compensation, KPMG offers market-leading benefits such as:

• Generous paid vacation time, sick days and holidays
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Parental leave
• Professional development stipend
• Gym and wellness program discounts

The firm invests heavily in professional advancement and training opportunities for employees at all stages of their career. The combination of strong compensation, benefits, learning programs and career progress makes KPMG a highly desirable place to work.

What are some tips for getting hired at KPMG?

Here are some top tips for getting hired at KPMG:

• Maintain a strong GPA – Above 3.5 is ideal for undergrad accounting majors.
• Complete internships – At least 1-2 internships in accounting or finance.
• Obtain leadership experience – Demonstrate teamwork and leadership skills.
• Develop technical expertise – Pursue advanced coursework and certifications to build skills.
• Ace the interview – Prepare for technical and behavioral interview questions.
• Network – Connect with KPMG employees and recruiters at career fairs and events.
• Highlight communication abilities – Verbal, written and presentation skills are vital.
• Solve problems – Showcase analytical thinking and problem-solving during the hiring process.
• Align values – Understand KPMG’s culture and demonstrate passion for the firm’s mission.

Following these tips and best practices can help you stand out from the competition and land a job at one of the most prestigious accounting firms in the world.

Conclusion

Getting hired at KPMG is very competitive, but definitely achievable with the right qualifications, experience and preparation. While an accounting degree, technical skills and internships are preferred, also highlighting softer skills like communication, critical thinking and leadership can help you shine during the recruitment process.

With diligent networking, resume polishing, interview practice and a strategic job search, you can overcome the odds and launch your career at KPMG. The substantial compensation, first-rate training and high-profile clients make it well worth the effort to pursue and earn a position at this Big Four accounting powerhouse.