Onboarding for Big 4 Articleship
On February 17th, I completed all stages of the articleship interview process at a Big 4 firm. After the interviews, I submitted the required documents, but I was asked to resend them on February 25th.
Since then, there has been complete silence. I’ve tried contacting HR multiple times, but my calls have gone unanswered. Finally, I asked the partner who referred me to check on my onboarding status, and I was informed it might happen around March 17th.
I’m feeling quite anxious about the situation. Will they reach out to me? Am I officially being onboarded, or should I consider taking an articleship with a smaller firm instead? Is it normal for the process to take this long?
Any advice or support to help ease my worries would be greatly appreciated.
One response
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious during this waiting period, especially for something as important as your articleship. The onboarding process can often be slower than expected, particularly at large firms like the Big 4, where there can be numerous internal processes and approvals involved.
Here are a few points to consider:
Delay is Common: Many candidates experience similar delays, especially after submitting documents. It’s not unusual for the onboarding timelines to extend beyond what is initially communicated.
Stay Positive: The fact that you had a partner inquire about your status is a positive sign. They are likely still considering you seriously for the position.
Keep Your Options Open: While the Big 4 offers valuable experience, it might be worth exploring opportunities at smaller firms in parallel, especially if you’re feeling uncertain about the current situation. This way, you’ll have options ready if things don’t work out as planned.
Follow Up: If you don’t hear back by the anticipated date of March 17th, it’s perfectly acceptable to follow up one more time. A polite email expressing your enthusiasm and seeking an update can go a long way.
Focus on Alternatives: Use this time to continue building your skills—whether through online courses, networking, or exploring other opportunities. This will not only keep you engaged but also boost your confidence.
Remember, whatever happens, you’re building skills and experience that will serve you well in your career, whether at a big firm or a smaller one. Stay patient and positive!