Big 4 Accounting Firms: What Jobseekers Should Know

Did you know that Malaysia is in need of qualified accountants? Accounting is one of the most in-demand jobs not just in the country but all over the world today. If you are trying to decide between working at a regional firm or one of the Big 4 accounting firms in Malaysia, note that a stint in one of the Big 4 pays off big time and is a good place to start a career.

So who are the Big 4 in Malaysia? There is Deloitte, KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Ernst & Young. It is pretty much the same four all over the world; but to be sure, check out their local website pages if you are looking for employment. Before starting on anything, do some research into these companies to see which may be the best fit for you.

Why not start as an intern?

Even before taking qualifying exams or even graduating, working in the Big 4 is still possible through various programs.

Many companies, including the Big 4 accounting firms, have specialised internships that will help jumpstart your career. So whether you remain in accountancy or not, having worked or interned at one of the Big 4 accounting firms immediately gets you noticed, allowing you to build a solid foundation for your career.

Mostly, the Big 4 are looking for the same thing in an intern: someone about to graduate in one to two years with good grades. Jobseekers should be confident, have strong communication skills, analytical, and have a talent for building relationships and problem-solving. But above all, mature. This is the Big 4. It is time to show that you can collaboratively work in a professional environment.

These hands-on internships are a great way to get your feet wet before embarking on your career. But why choose the larger firms, which get thousands of applicants worldwide a year? Simply put: If you want to be the best, you need to work with the best. The opportunities and doors that an internship at one of the Big 4 can open in a short amount of time.

Benefits of working at the Big 4 accounting firms

Networking and expanding opportunities

Jobseekers can now use their new job to build a solid network early. Working at one of the Big 4 means exposure to these multinationals’ clients and their various businesses.

One of the pros of working at the Big 4, according to former interns and new hires, is the lack of hierarchy in the office. This means that even new staff members are required to work closely with senior staff and executives.

Many jobseekers have also said that working at the Big 4 accounting firms, regardless of whether your training was formal (hired) or informal (intern), provide boundless growth opportunities. The work is both challenging and interesting, plus give access to senior management, some of whom are readily willing and available to become mentors. Many employers have mentorship programs that can give young professionals valuable hands-on work experience and advice.

Options and diversity

Larger firms also have a variety of opportunities in different sectors of the company. All of the Big 4 accounting firms are international firms. This said, the Big 4 also opens new employees’ minds with their company’s philosophy and work strategies. The Big 4 companies have also been lauded by their employees for the diversity and range of backgrounds of their hires.

Jobseekers who are fluent in or native speakers of English have an edge over the competition in Malaysia. Those especially interested in travelling or living abroad will have great chances to do so working for one of these companies whose numerous offices dot the globe.

More than just simple accountancy, the variety of companies that these Big 4 firms handle will also give opportunities to work with a very diverse range of industries from entertainment to manufacturing. Plus, employment advancement can come relatively quickly if you show competent and exemplary work.

(Read more: 3 Things You Need To Have In Your Entry-Level Accountant Resume )

Start Looking

Working at one of the Big 4 accounting firms is a popular way to make inroads early. It makes your CV sparkle and shine at most HR offices. Working at the Big 4 can mean large leaps for your career between their training programs and global reach.

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