What we look for

At PwC all our people are required to demonstrate certain core skills, which we refer to as our 'global core competencies'. These are assessed throughout the application process, and candidates should make themselves aware of these, and how their own experiences may demonstrate each competency.
 

Analytical skills

Regardless of what role you play at PwC, you will no doubt spend a significant part of your time analyzing numerical data, verbal data and all other sources of information. Throughout our assessment process we will be observing your ability to gather relevant information, understand the broader context and draw sound conclusions from the available information.

Personal drive & motivation

We place a strong emphasis on personal development, so we will be looking for people who can reflect on their past performances and recognize their own individual strengths and development needs. Have you pushed yourself to achieve things that go above and beyond? Have you developed new skills outside of your degree?

Contributing to team success  

Striving for excellence through working as part of successful teams is key to our work. We will be looking for evidence of where you have worked in teams and contributed to your team's success. Can you think of a situation where you worked in a team to achieve a common goal?

Planning and organizing   

The ability to prioritize is an increasingly core skill. Chances are, you will find yourself juggling a few different priorities - similar to the way that you may have had to juggle your priorities throughout your studies. Have you managed a big event or function?

Professional impact   

We believe in acting with integrity in everything we do. This means upholding the best standards, adopting the right procedures and maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality. And if something's not right, we're not afraid to say so. That's why we are looking for the kind of person who is always professional and isn't afraid to speak their mind. We need people who can gain clear agreement and commitment from others through persuasion and negotiation; and most importantly, take responsibility for their actions.
Can you think of a situation when you have acted in a responsible manner, adhered to standards or procedures, maintained confidentiality and displayed professional attitude and appearance? Have you kept your cool while you worked under pressure?

Communication skills  

Being able to communicate and listen effectively to others is vital at PwC. You'll need to be a confident communicator, able to get your point across and be just as happy listening to other people's ideas and opinions. We will be looking for people who can express themselves clearly, both in conversation and on paper. We will be interested in hearing about times when you have presented to an audience, or written a document that made good things happen. Have you been the representative for your course?

Initiative & decision making

To be successful in business, you need to have the ability to make prompt, clear decisions which may involve tough choices or considered risk. Have you identified something that could be done better and taken steps to improve it?

Commercial awareness and technical expertise

PwC is passionate about providing our clients with services that contribute to their business success. You will be continually building on your commercial and technical expertise at PwC. This includes your ability to build relationships and empathize with clients - truly putting yourself in their shoes and understanding their business and needs. This means we'll want to know that you're the kind of person who does their research and who can review or evaluate an experience to work out what you learned, and how you apply that learning. As a starting point, you could look into the qualifications we offer here. You could also find out more about our different business areas, and how you could add value to them. Due to the ever changing business environment it is also important to keep up to date with the latest business and relevant industry trends. We will therefore be assessing your knowledge (if applicable) of the professional qualification you wish to undertake and your understanding of current business issues.

Agility

Our business and client needs are constantly changing and that means we have to adapt our work structures and processes, while maintaining 100% commitment to delivering high quality work. You are also encouraged to actively seek opportunities to work on projects or teams in other areas of the business. We are looking for people who can think on their feet and adjust to lots of different situations – without compromising on standards. Have you tried new things that are out of your comfort zone?