Landing an internship at RSM, a leading audit, tax, and consulting firm, is a significant step for any aspiring accounting or business professional. The interview process can be daunting, but resources like Reddit offer invaluable peer insights. Let’s dive into what you can expect and how to prepare, drawing from the collective experiences shared on Reddit.

Understanding RSM and Its Culture

Before diving into interview specifics, it's essential to understand RSM's values and culture. RSM prides itself on its client-centric approach, integrity, and fostering a collaborative environment. Knowing this will help you tailor your responses to align with what RSM seeks in its interns.

RSM’s culture emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and providing opportunities for professional growth. Demonstrating that you value these aspects can significantly boost your candidacy. When discussing your previous experiences, highlight instances where you collaborated effectively with others, took initiative to learn new skills, or sought opportunities to improve processes. Share examples of how you provided exceptional service to clients or stakeholders, emphasizing your commitment to understanding and meeting their needs.

Furthermore, research RSM's core values, such as respect, integrity, collaboration, and excellence. During the interview, articulate how these values resonate with you and how you have exemplified them in your academic or professional life. For instance, you could describe a situation where you upheld ethical standards despite facing pressure to compromise, or how you actively contributed to a team project, ensuring that all members felt valued and heard. By showcasing your alignment with RSM's culture, you demonstrate that you are not only a qualified candidate but also a good fit for their organizational environment.

Understanding RSM’s commitment to innovation and technology is also crucial. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, RSM embraces technological advancements to enhance its services and processes. Familiarize yourself with some of the technologies used by RSM, such as data analytics tools, cloud-based platforms, and automation software. During the interview, express your eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies, highlighting any experience you have with similar tools. This will demonstrate your readiness to contribute to RSM’s innovative initiatives and your ability to stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

Common Interview Questions

Reddit threads are filled with discussions about common interview questions at RSM. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Technical Questions

Depending on the service line you’re applying for (audit, tax, consulting), you might encounter technical questions related to accounting principles, tax laws, or consulting methodologies. Technical proficiency is key. Prepare by reviewing fundamental concepts and staying updated with the latest industry developments. For audit roles, brush up on auditing standards, internal controls, and financial statement analysis. For tax roles, familiarize yourself with tax regulations, compliance requirements, and tax planning strategies. For consulting roles, understand various consulting frameworks, problem-solving techniques, and industry-specific knowledge. Be prepared to articulate your understanding of these concepts clearly and concisely, using real-world examples to illustrate your points.

To further enhance your preparation, consider practicing with mock technical questions. Enlist the help of professors, mentors, or peers to simulate interview scenarios and receive constructive feedback. Focus on not only providing accurate answers but also explaining your thought process and reasoning. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and your ability to apply technical knowledge to practical situations. Additionally, stay updated on current industry trends and news by following reputable sources such as industry publications, professional organizations, and financial news outlets. This will enable you to discuss relevant topics during the interview and showcase your commitment to continuous learning.

Behavioral Questions

Expect a barrage of behavioral questions designed to assess your soft skills, teamwork abilities, and problem-solving skills. Common questions include:

• Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
• Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult team member.
• Give an example of a time you demonstrated leadership skills.

Behavioral questions are your chance to shine and demonstrate that you’re not just academically strong but also possess the interpersonal skills necessary to succeed in a collaborative environment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Start by describing the situation or context of the story. Then, explain the task or challenge you were facing. Next, detail the actions you took to address the situation, highlighting your skills and abilities. Finally, share the results or outcomes of your actions, quantifying your accomplishments whenever possible.

When answering behavioral questions, focus on showcasing your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and resilience. Share examples of how you approached challenges with a positive attitude, sought creative solutions, and learned from setbacks. Emphasize your ability to work effectively under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Additionally, highlight your teamwork skills by describing instances where you collaborated with others, communicated effectively, and contributed to a shared goal. By providing specific and compelling examples, you can demonstrate that you possess the soft skills and personal qualities that RSM values in its employees.

Fit Questions

RSM wants to know why you chose them and why you’re interested in the specific service line. Be prepared to answer questions like:

• Why RSM?
• Why this service line?
• What are your career goals?

Fit questions aim to gauge your genuine interest in RSM and the role you're applying for. Research RSM thoroughly and understand their mission, values, and recent achievements. Articulate why their culture and opportunities appeal to you. Connect your skills and interests to the specific service line, highlighting how you can contribute to their team. Express your long-term career aspirations and how an internship at RSM aligns with your goals.

To prepare for fit questions, reflect on your motivations for pursuing a career in accounting, tax, or consulting. Consider what aspects of the industry excite you and how RSM's unique offerings align with your interests. Attend RSM's virtual events, webinars, or career fairs to learn more about their culture and network with employees. Use LinkedIn to connect with RSM professionals and ask them about their experiences working at the firm. By demonstrating a genuine understanding of RSM and its values, you can showcase your passion and commitment to joining their team.

Preparing Your Answers

Crafting compelling answers is crucial. Here’s how to approach it:

The STAR Method

As mentioned earlier, the STAR method is your best friend. It helps you structure your responses in a clear and concise manner, ensuring you cover all the essential details. STAR method stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, providing a framework for answering behavioral questions effectively. When describing the situation, provide enough context for the interviewer to understand the background of the story. Explain the task or challenge you were facing, highlighting the obstacles and constraints you encountered. Detail the actions you took to address the situation, emphasizing your skills, abilities, and decision-making process. Finally, share the results or outcomes of your actions, quantifying your accomplishments whenever possible.

By using the STAR method, you can ensure that your answers are well-organized, focused, and impactful. Practice using the STAR method with common behavioral questions to become more comfortable and confident in your responses. Tailor your stories to align with the values and competencies that RSM seeks in its employees, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. Additionally, be prepared to provide specific examples and anecdotes to support your claims, demonstrating your ability to apply your skills and knowledge in real-world situations. Remember, the STAR method is a valuable tool for showcasing your strengths and experiences in a compelling and memorable way.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Rehearse your answers out loud. Practice answering questions in front of a mirror or with a friend. This helps you refine your delivery and identify areas for improvement. Focus on speaking clearly and confidently, maintaining eye contact, and using body language to convey enthusiasm and engagement. Additionally, practice answering questions under pressure to simulate the interview environment and build your resilience. Consider recording yourself and reviewing the footage to identify areas for improvement in your communication style, such as pacing, tone, and gestures.

Mock interviews are an excellent way to prepare for the real thing. Enlist the help of professors, mentors, or career advisors to conduct mock interviews and provide constructive feedback. Ask them to focus on your content, delivery, and overall performance, providing specific suggestions for improvement. Use the feedback to refine your answers, improve your communication skills, and build your confidence. Additionally, participate in networking events, career fairs, and information sessions to practice your elevator pitch and engage with RSM employees. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become in your ability to answer interview questions effectively.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Always prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your genuine interest and engagement. Good questions include:

• What opportunities are there for professional development at RSM?
• How does RSM foster a collaborative work environment?
• What are the biggest challenges facing the firm right now?

Asking insightful questions demonstrates your curiosity, engagement, and genuine interest in RSM. Prepare a list of questions in advance, but also be prepared to ask follow-up questions based on the conversation. Focus on questions that demonstrate your understanding of RSM's business, culture, and values. Avoid asking questions that can be easily found on their website or in their marketing materials. Instead, ask questions that show you have done your research and are genuinely interested in learning more about the firm.

When asking questions, be mindful of the interviewer's time and avoid dominating the conversation. Listen attentively to their responses and engage in a thoughtful dialogue. Use your questions to showcase your critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and strategic mindset. Additionally, consider asking questions that relate to your career goals and professional development opportunities at RSM. This will demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and your desire to grow within the firm. By asking thoughtful and engaging questions, you can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer and reinforce your candidacy.

Reddit Insights: Real Experiences

One of the best resources for preparing for your RSM internship interview is Reddit. Many users share their interview experiences, offering valuable insights into the types of questions asked, the interview format, and the overall atmosphere.

Reddit threads often provide specific examples of questions that were asked during interviews, giving you a head start in preparing your answers. Users also share tips and strategies for navigating the interview process, such as how to structure your responses, how to highlight your strengths, and how to address your weaknesses. Additionally, Reddit can provide insights into RSM's culture and values, helping you tailor your answers to align with what the firm is looking for in its interns.

However, it’s essential to approach Reddit insights with a critical eye. Remember that every interview experience is unique, and what worked for one person may not work for another. Use Reddit as a starting point for your research, but always verify the information with other sources and tailor your approach to your own strengths and experiences. Additionally, be cautious of outdated or inaccurate information, as interview processes and firm cultures can change over time. By using Reddit as a supplementary resource and combining it with other research methods, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the RSM internship interview process and increase your chances of success.

Dressing for Success

First impressions matter. Dress professionally for your interview, typically in business formal attire. A suit is always a safe bet. Ensure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and wrinkle-free. Pay attention to details such as your shoes, accessories, and grooming. Your appearance should convey professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the interviewer and the firm.

For men, a traditional business suit in navy, gray, or black is appropriate. Pair it with a crisp white shirt, a conservative tie, and polished dress shoes. Ensure your hair is neatly groomed, and avoid wearing excessive jewelry or cologne. For women, a business suit or a dress with a blazer is a good option. Choose neutral colors and avoid anything too flashy or revealing. Wear comfortable heels or flats, and keep your jewelry and makeup simple and professional. Pay attention to your personal hygiene, ensuring that your hair is clean and styled, your nails are manicured, and you have fresh breath.

In today's virtual world, dressing professionally for a video interview is just as important as dressing for an in-person interview. While you may be tempted to dress casually from the waist down, it's essential to maintain a professional appearance from head to toe. Choose a professional top or blazer, and ensure that your background is clean and uncluttered. Pay attention to your lighting and camera angle, ensuring that you are well-lit and that your face is clearly visible. By dressing for success, you can convey professionalism and confidence, even in a virtual setting.

Following Up

After the interview, send a thank-you email to the interviewer within 24 hours. Follow up after the interview to reiterate your interest in the position and thank them for their time. Keep the email concise and professional, and reiterate your key qualifications and why you are a good fit for the role. You can also use the thank-you email to address any points that you may have missed during the interview or to provide additional information that you think would be helpful.

In addition to sending a thank-you email, consider connecting with the interviewer on LinkedIn. This is a great way to stay in touch and build your professional network. When sending a connection request, personalize your message and mention the interview. Thank them again for their time and express your continued interest in the position. You can also use LinkedIn to stay updated on RSM's news and activities, demonstrating your ongoing engagement with the firm.

If you haven't heard back from RSM within the timeframe specified by the interviewer, it's appropriate to send a follow-up email. Keep the email polite and professional, and reiterate your interest in the position. You can also ask for an update on the hiring process. However, avoid being too pushy or demanding, as this could reflect negatively on your candidacy. Remember, patience and persistence are key when it comes to following up after an interview.

Conclusion

The RSM internship interview process is designed to assess not only your technical skills but also your soft skills, cultural fit, and genuine interest in the firm. By preparing thoroughly, practicing your answers, and leveraging resources like Reddit, you can increase your chances of landing that coveted internship. Good luck, and remember to stay confident and be yourself!

By understanding RSM’s culture, preparing for common interview questions, practicing your answers using the STAR method, and leveraging resources like Reddit, you can approach your RSM internship interview with confidence and increase your chances of success. Remember to dress professionally, follow up promptly, and showcase your genuine interest in the firm. With thorough preparation and a positive attitude, you can make a lasting impression on the interviewer and secure your spot as an RSM intern.