Page 47 - Graduate Recruitment Handbook 2024

PwC

To start, please tell us about yourself, your spelling errors on your CV speaks to your attention
organization, and the areas or fields you recruit to detail or mindfulness which is an especially
for. important aspect of this career path.
My name is Liezel Yon, I work at PwC in Talent
Acquisition, and I specialize (among other things) What are the top three skills you believe are
in graduate recruitment for the Eastern Cape. My essential for recent graduates to succeed in
today’s job market?
focus is on CA stream students, however, due to
the vast range of services and programs that PwC • Be willing and open to learn.
offers our students, I can assist with any queries • Be motivated and confident in your
regarding recruitment opportunities for any of our capabilities.
other programs. • Have the imagination to see things from
different perspectives.
Here at PwC, we build integrity and confidence in
What advice would you give students to help
the capital markets, we bring this way of thinking them improve their chances of getting hired?
to every challenge. It is where ideas step out of the Consistent academic results, being involved in extra
ordinary and take shape as solutions that lead the mural activities that grow you as a person, develop
way. your world views, engage with different people, and
This is how we build trust and create sustained build character. Take ownership of your own growth
outcomes. It is what sets PwC apart – and it is the and development.
reason our clients and stakeholders have trust in
tomorrow. How important are soft skills, such as
communication and teamwork, for recent
What common mistakes do recent graduates graduates in your organisation?
make on their CV’s or during interviews? These are particularly important skills as one will
Common mistakes that I have noticed are have to draw from their experience when dealing
overloading the CV with irrelevant information with different personalities in both the workplace
or excessive details, missing contact information and clients, so having excellent communication skills
and listing responsibilities instead of highlighting and being able to work in a team is essential in any
specific measurable achievements. A concise CV is working environment.
more memorable. During interviews, we find a lack
of preparation about the role and the direction or How important are extracurricular
career they want, not being able to articulate their activities and leadership roles in
assessing a recent graduate’s
thoughts clearly and concisely, not asking questions.
employability?
Extracurricular activities and
How can graduates make their CV’s and cover
letters stand out to you? leadership roles are important
Keep it simple, add relevant information only, add as it speaks to your interests
keywords related to your career direction and as well as your ability to work
aspirations. Start with your latest qualification or in teams. We are looking
work experience and work your way down to Grade for candidates who can lead
12. Do not leave gaps in your academic / work themselves and others to make a
history. Do not use generic CVs. Customize your difference and deliver results
CV and cover letter for the role you are applying to. in a responsible, resilient,
Formatting is important, use consistent font sizes, inclusive, and passionate
and styles. Please spell check everything. Finding manner.