Competency-based Interview

Your first stage interview

A 45 minute interview in one of our London offices covering the key skills

What can I expect?

This is a 45-minute competency based interview covering key skills we believe to be important in an analyst (i.e. initiative, problem solving etc). In exceptional circumstances, there is the opportunity for a telephone interview. You will be interviewed either by a Graduate Recruiter or a Manager from within the business. Your interviewer will want you to draw on examples from your life at university, extracurricular activities and work experience. You will also be probed on your career ambitions and your interest in consulting and IT. We will want to be certain you have researched your career options and can show your understanding and drive to work in the Analyst Consulting Group. In addition, a mini case study will test your logic and problem-solving skills.

If you are specifically interested in Strategy or Technology Consulting you can express this during the first round interview, however this would not be assessed yet. If you go on to the 2nd round assessment centre we will assess your suitability and rationale for this. A proportion of the Analyst Consulting Group will be aligned to these areas dependant on business demand.

What shall I wear?

Accenture’s dress policy is business casual – tailored trousers or skirt, plus a shirt with collar or smart top for women. So when you meet your interviewer, he or she may not be wearing a suit. However, if you prefer to wear a suit, feel free to do so. The main thing is to ensure that you are comfortable with what you are wearing and that you create a good first impression.

How do I prepare?

• Re-read your application form before your interview to remind yourself of what you have written (your interviewer may refer to it during the interview).
• Think of recent examples you can give to demonstrate how you meet our criteria, such as initiative. Examples can be from your academic, personal or work life. Think about what we do for clients at Accenture and, more specifically, what you would be doing if you worked for us as an Analyst.
• If possible, speak to someone who already works for the company to get a real feel for what we do, or come along to one of our presentations.
• If you’re not from a technical background, think about how you can demonstrate your interest in a career in technology. For example, you may have taught yourself basic programming skills, or some work experience may have sparked your interest in technology.
• Give yourself plenty of time to get to our offices – there is nothing worse than arriving late and feeling flustered.
• Try to relax and be yourself. We are interested in getting to know you and your personality, so while an interview can be nerve-wracking, try to remain calm throughout.
• Be confident and engaging, smile and make eye contact. This will create a good impression and make the interview more interesting.
• Focus on answering the questions asked and, if you are unsure, ask for clarification rather than answering incorrectly or appearing flustered.
• Keep your answers concise and don’t waffle. Remember an interviewer has a lot of questions to ask and a limited amount of time in which to ask them.
• Finally, if you have questions to ask at the end of the interview, feel free - but this is by no means expected or mandatory and is not assessed.

When will I hear?

You will learn the outcome by email within 10 working days of your interview taking place. Therefore, please ensure that we have your latest email address. We would be grateful if you would only contact us during these two weeks if there is an urgent reason why you need to know the outcome earlier – for example, if you have to make a decision on another offer.

If you have questions

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please call our helpline on 0500 100189.

Ready to make your application online?