EQ is a medium sized Firm which does not departmentalise which means I am able to see a job through from start to finish – I find that so much more rewarding. EQ also has a good reputation and prides itself with good ‘on the job’ training.
Why did you choose a career in Accountancy? I always enjoyed working with numbers when I was younger and really enjoyed Accountancy at school.
Why did you choose to apply to EQ Accountants to complete your professional qualification? Being a farmer’s daughter from Angus, I was attracted to the Forfar Office as a large proportion of the client base are involved in the agricultural sector. EQ is a medium sized Firm which does not departmentalise which means I am able to see a job through from start to finish – I find that so much more rewarding. EQ has a good reputation and prides itself with good ‘on the job’ training, which also appealed to me.
What is a day in the life of a CA Trainee like? Each day is different. Sometimes you will receive a carrier bag of receipts from a farmer and have to prepare his accounts from these and his cashbook and other days you are dealing with a business with £1million of sales, where their books and records are kept electronically. In between, you are preparing and submitting personal, partnership and corporation tax returns. These different areas provide a good grounding when it comes to studying for ICAS exams. EQ holds regular Junior Technical Meetings which cover various topics and provides the opportunity to ask questions and share knowledge and experience.
What did you enjoy most about being a CA Trainee at EQ? Nobody likes exams – however they are worth it in the end! I enjoyed the variety of work from preparing accounts to looking into tax planning opportunities. Once you are into the second year of your traineeship, you are given a small controller list which provides the opportunity to develop client relationships. The other great thing about EQ is the people – everyone is so approachable and willing to help.
What did you find the most surprising during your training with EQ? The variety of work undertaken and the focus on advisory support. EQ undertake a large amount of consultancy type work, whether it be cashflows for banks or farm purchases, report on business sales or business restructuring – the work is really interesting and varied.
What 3 qualities do you think a CA Trainee needs to have if they are to be successful? Personable – Becoming a CA is more than being able to prepare accounts and calculate tax liabilities. It is important to be able to form relationships with clients and be able to convey your thoughts and plans for their business now and in the future. Dedicated – Exams are hard so it is therefore important you are dedicated. It isn’t easy giving up your evenings and weekends to study, especially after a hard day’s work in the office. You therefore, need to remain committed and invested if you are to be successful in passing your exams and progressing in the office. Time management – To be able to effectively prioritise your studies and work commitments, alongside personal life.
Do you have any advice for those interested in applying for our graduate training vacancies this year? When completing the application form, think outside the box and about the various other activities you have done which might differentiate yourself from others, even if just slightly. You may be asked to attend ‘meet and greet’ events; when attending these, be yourself and enjoy them! The thought of attending is far worse than the reality.