The Employer is the Interviewee

by Lisa Cecchin

When you first look for a job, the misconception is that the company is the interviewer. The reality is that they are the interviewee.

Look up the hundreds of companies on SAICA’s website. All they need is a person with a certificate, reasonably dressed, presentable, well-informed and with decent enough people skills to hold up an informative conversation. Not interesting, just informative.

There are companies out there who are looking for that extra bit of personality. However, if all you are looking for is a job, any company with an eight-to-five will suit you. In fact, just skip the interview and start any job.

The alternative is to find a company with substance, not just the necessary formalities it will require to turn you into that future chartered accountant.

My definition of “substance” is not IFRS’s “substance over form” but rather the kind you find in the people that you are drawn to.

Auditors are known for their lack of personality, as bookworms with a side Martini. When I first walked into RAiN, I was impressed that this perception was not true.

This showed with the way they presented themselves; they had a painting to describe their values and took pride in their client list.

They seemed interesting and ready to make their company better, stronger and grow with integrity. I thought that it would be great to be a part of that.

So despite feeling that I’d rather work overtime than write for this blog, I’m glad I work for a company that wants to write one, even if with a side order of Martini or beverage to your liking.