Application Process & Interviews at HLB Mann Judd

The interview process consisted of various interviews with different people in the firm including, HR, partners and managers.

I started as a cadet where I interviewed with a staff member and partner from HLB. They asked a number of questions about why I wanted to be an accountant and also what my interests were outside of work.

I first applied for HLB through their website. I was then interviewed in a group setting which entailed an assessment, and went through a speed interview with staff from the firm. I then proceeded to an individual interview.

I had done vacation program with my firm, from which they offered me the graduate role to start once my studies was done. There was a speed interview and a small test on accounting.

Was relatively straight-forward. Application -> In-person interview -> Assessment Centre -> Offer

I had an interview with two of the partners, which then lead to an assessment centre which involved a quick test of some technical and conversational skills, as well as informing us about the firm.

Firstly you apply online and if successful HR will call you and have a brief phone conversation. You will then have an interview with the partner and manager of the service line you have applied for and will also complete an online test. If you are successful, HR will call you with the good news.

They asked a lot about me as a person which was great. They asked what interests me about accounting and my plans for the future. They asked aboutstudies and prior work experience.

I recall they asked about my hobbies and what motivates me as a person.

Why I wanted to join HLB. Why I thought I'd be a good fit. Why I left my previous employment. What I do for fun. My plans for the future. I'm sure there were more about getting to know me, my aspirations and how I'd fit into the culture.

My previous experience, why I wanted to work at HLB specifically, if I had interests in a certain area of accounting, how I would deal with conflict, demonstration of communication skills, if I had any hobbies outside of work.

Look into the firm's values and consider how you meet their values.

Be open about your experience and the environment you would like to work in. Don't try to answer all the interview questions the way you believe the interviewer wants you to. By doing this you will never know if the place is right for you.

Just be yourself. They want you for who you are and be as authentic as possible.

If you are looking to work for HLB, it is an amazing firm to work for and everyone is very supportive. If you are looking at finding a company where you are part of a team this is perfect for you, so show this in your interview.

Don't sweat it too hard on the technical side of things if you're a graduate. A lot of what they're actually looking for is conversational and social skills. If you can comfortably hold a conversation, it can go a long way.

I think most people will be nervous for the interview with the partners and managers. So, I would say that treat the interview just like a normal conversation, the interviewers are just trying to get a better understanding of you and who you are as a person. With that said, you should definitely prepare for the interview, researching the role you have applied for and the background of the firm.

Read up on the firm values, read over the job description and applicant criteria, have specific reasons for applying to the firm and note anything that stood out to you about the role or the firm.