How to get an accounting job in a multinational company
A qualified accountant working in Cork, tells us what it's like to work for one of the world's largest MNC: Apple.
What is your profession?
I am a logistics analyst on the supply chain team in operation finance in Apple, Cork.
What did you do before you worked at Apple?
I worked as an accountant in a small (nine people) practice in the city centre. I qualified in August so I was gaining some post qualification experience.
What did you find challenging when applying for a new job?
The lack of experience. I am a practice trained accountant and I wanted to move into industry. For the multinationals they are looking for accountants that trained in another multinational or the Big 4.
It’s tough to get interviews when you don't have the experience. The interviews themselves are also tough as I was relying solely on my soft skills, personality and ability to sell myself as I didn't have the experience they were looking for.
What do you like about your job?
It’s challenging and completely different to any role I have ever done. Its tough going but I was ready for a big change. Also it’s Apple…who wouldn't want to help "change the world"?
What transferable skills do you need to have to be successful in a multinational?
Communication skills are essential. To be able to express yourself professionally and personally is vital. To be able to connect to your co-workers is also important and appeared to be one of the key requirements for the companies I interviewed with.
How long did it take to get the job?
From first walking into the recruitment agents and hearing of the job to actual offer, it was about 8 - 9 weeks.
What advice would you give someone who is trying to move into a multinational?
1. Get yourself a good recruitment consultant.
I would not have got the interview in Apple without my recruiter.
2. Be yourself.
Your interviewers will know from your personality if you will fit in or not. It’s important that an organisation is the correct fit for you.
3. Do not restrict yourself to looking for only a permanent job.
They are hard to find and will take you longer to obtain. A contract can lead to a permanent job.
4. Sell yourself in the interview.
You only have one shot and you need to be better than the rest. Do practice interviews with friends. For eight weeks I didn't stop thinking about possible questions that my interviewers would ask and what my response would be. If you want it then you have to work for it.
Interested in accounting and finance job opportunities with multinationals? Get in touch today.
