My Experience with My First Articleship Interview
Today was my first interview, and it was a face-to-face meeting. The interview was with a mid-sized firm that has its main office in Kolkata and another in Mumbai.
There were two interviewers present, but one took the lead in asking questions. The focus was mainly on personal topics, such as my background, future goals, and whether I prefer service or practice in my career. They also asked about details from my CV and gave me a questionnaire with general questions based on the syllabus. Overall, I felt that the interview went well.
At the end of the interview, they expressed their willingness to select me. They mentioned that I would need to email them my decision by April 15th since my ITT and OC courses are wrapping up on April 29th. They were understanding and said I could join them after that date if I choose to go ahead.
Interestingly, I didn’t inquire about the stipend, but the interviewer did mention it would be in line with ICAI guidelines. The quieter interviewer chimed in, stating that the stipend would exceed ICAI norms (7,000 for the first year), and they would cover any related expenses if I needed to travel.
Now, I’m at a crossroads. Should I accept this offer or wait for other opportunities? I’ve only received interview calls from three firms so far, and this one was the only firm to invite me for an interview. I still have other firms in mind that I plan to send my resume to. What do you think I should do?
One response
Congratulations on completing your first articleship interview! It’s great to hear that you felt the interview went well and that they are interested in selecting you. This is a significant step in your career, and it sounds like the firm could provide a positive environment based on their responses.
Regarding your decision to join or wait, here are a few points to consider:
Firm Reputation: Research the reputation of the firm. Are they known for their training, supportive environment, and exposure to varied tasks? If they are well-regarded, that could be a solid reason to consider accepting their offer.
Stipend and Benefits: The mention of a stipend above ICAI norms is promising, and if they cover expenses for fieldwork or any assignments, that’s an added bonus. Ensure you clarify any other benefits they might offer, like mentorship opportunities, which can be crucial for your development.
Other Opportunities: Since you have other firms you plan to apply to, consider how much longer you are willing to wait for responses. If you believe the other firms align with your career goals more closely or have better potential for growth, it could be worth exploring your options further.
Future Prospects: If your goal is to go into practice or service, ask yourself which option aligns best with your long-term aspirations. Does this firm provide a pathway to achieving what you want?
Gut Feeling: Trust your instincts. If you feel a good vibe from the interviewers and the firm feels like a good fit for you, that’s worth considering.
Ultimately, be sure to weigh your options and ensure that whatever decision you make aligns with your personal and professional goals. Good luck, and remember that this is a crucial phase in your career, so take the time to make the best choice for yourself!