Employer
KPMG in Malaysia
Job
Audit Associate, Audit K
Qualification
ICAEW, Sunway TES, currently still pursuing Advanced Level papers
Has been with this company for
1 year (as of October 2021)
Can you tell us what you generally do in your job?
As a first-year Audit Associate, I assist my fellow engagement team members to substantiate the account balances for the clients’ Financial Statements by performing numerous testing namely Substantive Testing, Test of Operating Effectiveness of Controls and many more.
As an auditor, not only are we working to ascertain whether the financial statements present a true and fair view, but ultimately, we're working to enhance the integrity of the capital markets and consequently instilling trust in society.
I am just happy to be part of something bigger than myself as I work towards the said goal.
What would you say is the coolest daily task?
The best part about my job is visiting clients’ places and premises. We don’t only do this during the year-end when we have to perform stock count, but also when we are required to observe other kinds of procedures performed by the clients.
Regardless of the reasons, visiting clients has given me a better insight into how businesses run and operate. As an aspiring Chartered Accountant, I think this is pretty cool. Alas, they don’t share the secret with just anyone!
What is the greatest lesson you’ve learnt from your probation period at work?
I am blessed with supportive colleagues who would always lend an ear or assist whenever I have questions to ask.
What I have learnt throughout my probation period is that whenever in doubt, simply ask away! The probation period works both ways: it is where the company evaluates whether you are fit for the job; but also for you to discern if you are suitable for the job.
So, try your best to gain as much hands-on experience as you can from the start and that begins with asking.
How do you motivate yourself when the going gets tough?
I always tell myself to take it one day or one step at a time. Auditing can be overwhelming, especially due to tight deadlines and heavy workloads.
Nevertheless, I always try to plan out my day and prioritise urgent and important tasks. This keeps me productive and avoids burning out.
Always have your goals in mind, and more importantly, remain patient and be determined to work hard to achieve the goals in your life. Remember – Rome wasn’t built in a day.
If you could go back to your university days, what would you do differently?
I would definitely play more! To my fellow juniors, please enjoy your campus life to the fullest; explore and learn as much as you can!
Remember, it is not just about studying hard, but also playing hard. After all, it is crucial that we also invest some of our time and energy into the things that are important to us and things that we love doing outside of studying.
Of course, make sure to keep up with your studies! Life is a journey, don’t worry too much about the future, enjoy the present.
What is your advice to fresh grads who are having a tough time finding jobs?
My best advice to fresh graduates is to stay driven and hungry. Seize every opportunity to engage with your preferred employers.
Sign up for virtual career fairs and follow the companies' social media pages, such as Instagram and LinkedIn, to connect with recruiters. You will be surprised to know that employers nowadays would post job opportunities on social media.
If you still find it tough to land a job, you could always work on yourself by taking relevant online courses to upskill yourself. Trust the process, have faith, and good luck in your job search!
