Blair Peach, BSG Audit Trainee

"In all it has been an enjoyable first year and a half, I believe I have learnt a lot, developed as a person and made some good friends on the way. "

How was your first day ?

The first day consisted of the brilliant health and safety videos you get in every company; a gentle introduction to some of the specialist software you will be using on a daily basis in your new role and a brief introduction to the rest of the organisation. I started as an intake with 3 other graduates, who I had already met prior to starting thanks to Haslers HR department putting us in contact with each other. This made the day a lot less stressful as we all got on really well and had strength in numbers.

What made you choose Haslers ?

The main attraction to me was the really good training contract with the ICAEW that Haslers were offering. It really ensures you have every opportunity of getting through the tough exam requirements. I was also attracted by the size and client base of Haslers, I wanted to work for a firm where I would be exposed to the entire process of the audit and therefore learn a great deal more. I also did not want to be just another number in a larger firm.

What attracted you to your specialist area ?

After graduating from university with a business related degree I really wanted to develop my business knowledge and see everything I had been learning over the last 4 years in the real world. I figured the best way to do this would be to become an auditor. As an auditor I am at a different business every week, learning how that business operates and what they do. Because of Haslers diverse client portfolio I get to visit businesses in varying industry sectors and therefore gain a lot more experience and knowledge.

How would you describe an average day ?

There is no average day at Haslers, every day is different and every week you are at a different client in a different location, although it is nice sometimes to be in the office to recuperate for a couple of days now and then. My main job responsibilities as a graduate is assisting the seniors out on audit by completing various aspects of the audit file. On the occasions I am in the office these days are normally filled with accounts preparation jobs for the clients that do not require audits. I am nearly semi-qualified now so I am starting to get more responsibility, including smaller audits by myself, which should be interesting!

What have you learnt from your time at Haslers ?

The main thing I have learnt is to be ready and willing to tackle anything they throw at you and don´t be afraid if you get it wrong, it´s all part of the learning process.

If you are studying for your professional qualification, how has this been — honestly ?

At first, adjusting to working full time as well as studying and somehow finding some leisure time was quite hard but you soon become very adept at it. The study content can be quite challenging but Haslers do provide you with a good training contract and as long as you put the time and effort in as well it is very achievable. It is also very rewarding when you get the pass marks back!

Do you have any other comments you would like to make about your experience here ?

In all it has been an enjoyable first year and a half, I believe I have learnt a lot, developed as a person and made some good friends on the way.