Approximately 40 Golden Key Student members from around Victoria attended the “what is the X-factor” event by Golden Key in conjunction with La Trobe University and Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC).
Held on the 19th level of PWC’s Southbank headquarters (with stunning views of the sun setting over the CBD skyline), the evening was a valuable opportunity to gain insight into what big companies are looking for in graduate recruits.
The evening began, with a welcome by PWC partner and Golden Key member Liam Collins. He emphasised the importance of “emotional intelligence” and not just good marks.
After some introductory remarks from the Asia Pacific Representative of Golden Key, Susanna Chan, Associate Professor Les Nethercott from La Trobe University, spoke on how to get that career. Professor Nethercott is a honorary member of Golden Key, a lecturer, Taxation Specialist, Author and Business Adviser.
He said that the "X-Factor" is a combination of "academic and non academic factors", echoing what Collins had said earlier. He said that ones university education, must be tailored in a particular direction and emphasised the importance of a well-rounded graduate; "...it's not just about good marks, but also the transferable skills, the kind of person you are and the influence of extra-curricular activities".
He also emphasised the importance of a broad knowledge, beyond ones main area of study and to read the papers, to gain a more global perspective in our globalised world, and not just being preoccupied with the local.
Following Prof Nethercott, was Steph Hough, the PWC Recruitment Manager, who spoke on the PWC application process (which is not to dissimilar to other corporations) and some tips in navigating it, as well as some interview techniques.
She emphasised the necessity of being yourself, because one can tell, in the nervousness of an interview, whether one is being true or not. She said that in interviews and in the cover letter and resume, one must show their personal drive and motivation to work for a company, showing how one aligns with the company, and with their principles and values. She also mentioned that it would be a good idea to undertake the practice SHL Pre Employment Screening tests. She spoke about ones commercial awareness and expertise (emphasising the necessity of reading the news regularly), and the importance of adapting to change as well as relating and networking.
On that note, she concluded, and all members and guests, had the opportunity to network over a delicious spread of food and drink.
Held on the 19th level of PWC’s Southbank headquarters (with stunning views of the sun setting over the CBD skyline), the evening was a valuable opportunity to gain insight into what big companies are looking for in graduate recruits.
The evening began, with a welcome by PWC partner and Golden Key member Liam Collins. He emphasised the importance of “emotional intelligence” and not just good marks.
After some introductory remarks from the Asia Pacific Representative of Golden Key, Susanna Chan, Associate Professor Les Nethercott from La Trobe University, spoke on how to get that career. Professor Nethercott is a honorary member of Golden Key, a lecturer, Taxation Specialist, Author and Business Adviser.
He said that the "X-Factor" is a combination of "academic and non academic factors", echoing what Collins had said earlier. He said that ones university education, must be tailored in a particular direction and emphasised the importance of a well-rounded graduate; "...it's not just about good marks, but also the transferable skills, the kind of person you are and the influence of extra-curricular activities".
He also emphasised the importance of a broad knowledge, beyond ones main area of study and to read the papers, to gain a more global perspective in our globalised world, and not just being preoccupied with the local.
Following Prof Nethercott, was Steph Hough, the PWC Recruitment Manager, who spoke on the PWC application process (which is not to dissimilar to other corporations) and some tips in navigating it, as well as some interview techniques.
She emphasised the necessity of being yourself, because one can tell, in the nervousness of an interview, whether one is being true or not. She said that in interviews and in the cover letter and resume, one must show their personal drive and motivation to work for a company, showing how one aligns with the company, and with their principles and values. She also mentioned that it would be a good idea to undertake the practice SHL Pre Employment Screening tests. She spoke about ones commercial awareness and expertise (emphasising the necessity of reading the news regularly), and the importance of adapting to change as well as relating and networking.
On that note, she concluded, and all members and guests, had the opportunity to network over a delicious spread of food and drink.