EQ provide opportunities to staff of all levels and actively encourage staff to be vocal about their development needs. If you would like more experience in a certain area, all you need to do is ask.
Why did you make the move to EQ? What were you looking for? I was looking for a firm who actively encourages progression in its staff and ensures that they are gaining experience in the areas they are interested in. During my initial discussions with EQ, it was very clear that our values were aligned and that by joining the firm, I would be able to gain the post-qualified experience that I was looking for.
What were your apprehensions in moving to EQ? How have these been overcome? After joining my previous employer as a school-leaver and being there for 6 years, I was worried about joining a new firm and getting to grips with new systems and processes. I found that, through having approachable colleagues and regular internal training sessions, these systems became my “new normal.”
How different do you think EQ is (to the practice you were in previously)? EQ provide opportunities to staff of all levels and actively encourage staff to be vocal about their development needs. If you would like more experience in a certain area, all you need to do is ask.
How do our working practices differ to the firm you were part of before? EQ differs by ensuring that training staff are given experience across a variety of client sectors and that more senior staff are allocated portfolios that are tailored to suit their skillset.
What are you involved in at EQ that you weren’t involved in before? i.e. work other than compliance Due to the wide variety of clients in my portfolio, there is always an opportunity for an ad-hoc piece of advisory work to come in. Similarly, if another member of staff receives some advisory work that they think suits your skillset or development needs, you will be given the opportunity to take it on.
What opportunities have been available to you since you joined EQ? I have been able to improve my soft skills by creating and providing training sessions to staff of all levels. I was also given the opportunity to join the Technology team, where I have taken part in various networking events relating to this sector.
Can you tell us a little about the relationships you have established with your clients since you joined? On the back of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of clients now prefer to meet in person rather than communicate through email or phone call. Through these meetings, I have managed to establish some great working relationships that I will continue to build on.
What three things you would say to someone interested in making a move to EQ? 1. You will be client-facing from day one. 2. Development opportunities are always available and actively encouraged. 3. Call 01382 312100!