How to Answer the "Why KPMG?" Interview Question
Are you preparing for an interview with KPMG? Well, you're in the right place! In this guide, we will provide you with valuable insights, expert tips, and effective strategies to help you ace the "Why KPMG?" interview question.
Posted October 29, 2024
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As one of the most common interview questions asked in the hiring process at Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG), the "Why KPMG?" question is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of the company and convey how they align with its values and mission. This question can also be tricky – with preparation and understanding, however, you can answer it confidently and authentically. In this article, we will explore various aspects of answering the "Why KPMG?" interview question in detail.
Key Takeaways:
- Answering the “Why KPMG?” interview question is an important step in showcasing your interest and fit for the company and role you’re applying for.
- Personalizing your answer and backing up your points with research and examples will show KPMG that you’re genuinely interested in working for the company.
- Preparing to answer “Why KPMG?” ahead of time will help you stand out during and after your interview.
What is KPMG?
KPMG is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, offering a wide range of taxi, audit, and advisory services. As part of the Big Four accounting firms – along with Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) – KPMG operates globally across numerous industries, helping businesses address complex challenges related to financial performance, risk management, and organizational growth. Known for its commitment to integrity, innovation, and professional development, KPMG works with clients to drive transformation and deliver lasting value through its deep expertise and global reach.
Why the "Why KPMG?" Interview Question Matters
The first step in successfully answering the "Why KPMG?" question is understanding the purpose behind it. Hiring managers ask this question to assess a candidate’s motivation and commitment to the company, as well as their fit for the role and culture. It is important to remember that the interviewer is not simply looking for a list of company facts, but rather a thoughtful and authentic answer that reflects a genuine interest in working for KPMG.
How to Structure Your Answer to “Why KPMG?”
When answering this question, it’s important to paint a cohesive story that is easily understood by the interviewer. A healthy structure with a clear tie between the past, present, and future is the easiest way to make sure the answer is as powerful as possible. There are many different ways to approach the structure, depending on your background and story, but here is one option to consider:
1. The Past: What did you do before deciding you wanted to work at KPMG?
Some questions to consider here include:
- What did you feel was missing that KPMG could provide?
- In what ways did your past experiences prepare you to succeed at KPMG?
2. The Tipping Point: When/why did you decide that KPMG was the best place for you?
- What made you decide to interview for KPMG?
- What excites you about the company? Why would you choose KPMG over somewhere else?
- What differentiates KPMG from other companies/firms in your eyes?
3. The Future (at KPMG)
- What are some ways that KPMG is positioned to uniquely bring value to you? What are some ways that you are uniquely positioned to bring value to KPMG?
- What makes KPMG the best fit for you? What makes you the best fit for KPMG?
Top Tips for Answering the “Why KPMG?” Interview Question
Research the company (and team!) before your interview.
To effectively answer the "Why KPMG?" interview question, researching and understanding the company's culture, values, and vision is crucial. How do the company's mission, values, and goals align with your own personal and professional aspirations? Additionally, researching the company's current projects, initiatives, and recent achievements can demonstrate your interest in KPMG and your knowledge of the industry, and show that you’re ready to be a valuable asset to the team.
Another important aspect to consider when researching KPMG is the company's approach to diversity and inclusion. The firm’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that pays special attention to traditionally underrepresented groups has been implemented in various initiatives. Understanding and appreciating the company's efforts in this area can demonstrate your own commitment to diversity and inclusion, and can also help you determine if KPMG is a good fit for you. Along with DEI, KPMG is also known for its efforts to improve environmental sustainability. These can make good topics to touch on, as long as they are personalized and put in a context that is specific to you.
Finally, it's important to research KPMG's reputation in the industry and among its clients. This can be done by reading industry publications, news articles, and client reviews. Understanding how KPMG is perceived by others can give you insight into the company's strengths and weaknesses, and can help you determine if it's a company you want to work for.
Expert Tip: Talk to current and past KPMG employees on the team or in the office that you want to join. They will have the best, most up-to-date information and will help you demonstrate your knowledge of the company and genuine interest in the position in your interviews.
Weave in your goals and qualifications into your response to ‘Why KPMG?”
Before answering the "Why KPMG?" question, evaluate your own goals and qualifications for the role. This involves taking an inventory of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments and identifying how they align with the job requirements and company culture. Additionally, reflecting on your long-term career goals and how they can be achieved through KPMG can show your commitment to the company.
Your answer should be unique to you.
When answering the "Why KPMG?" question, it is vital to craft a personalized and authentic response. This means avoiding generic or rehearsed answers and instead using specific examples and anecdotes that demonstrate your connection to the company. For example, almost everyone wants personal and professional development but how, specifically, is KPMG poised to do that well and how has your background prepared you to make the most of it?
Additionally, showcasing your genuine enthusiasm and passion for the company can make a memorable impression on your interviewer.
As we mentioned above, it is also important to remember that your response should not only focus on what the company can do for you, but also what you can bring to the company. This can include discussing your unique perspective or ideas that you believe can contribute to the company's success. By demonstrating your value as a potential employee, you can make a strong case for why KPMG should hire you.
Remember, KPMG knows that it’s a great company to work for. It has a great brand, wide client base, and opportunities for advancement. By answering generically that include these very high-level points, you’re not showing any kind of real interest – it doesn’t convey to the interviewer that you’ve done your research or have thought intentionally about why and how KPMG is a good fit for you.
Emphasize your fit.
When answering the "Why KPMG?" interview question, it’s essential to highlight how your skills, values, and career goals align with the company’s culture and business objectives. KPMG is known for its commitment to integrity, innovation, and professional development, so showcasing your fit with these values can help you stand out.
Expert Tip: When thinking about fit, it’s helpful to understand why it’s important. When hiring any new employee, hiring managers and team members want people who they can invest in and who will be around for a long time. The better of a cultural fit you are, the more likely you will stay for a longer period of time, so the less risky of a hire you are.
Practice your response!
Practice makes perfect, particularly when it comes to interviews. Once you’ve prepared your response and know what you want to say, say it out loud. You can do it in front of a mirror, with family or friends, but we would also highly recommend working on it with an expert who can provide the most helpful feedback grounded in real experience.
The Most Common Mistakes When Answering "Why KPMG?"
Answering the "Why KPMG?" interview question effectively can set you apart from other candidates, but there are several common pitfalls that can undermine an otherwise solid response. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your answer is thoughtful, tailored, and memorable. Here’s what to look out for:
- Being Too Generic: One of the most common mistakes candidates make is providing a vague or generic answer. Simply stating that KPMG is a "great firm" or that it’s part of the Big Four isn’t enough to distinguish yourself. Interviewers want to hear specifics—what is it about KPMG’s unique culture, services, or opportunities that attract you? Avoid clichés and show that you’ve done your research by mentioning particular programs or initiatives that resonate with you.
- Focusing Solely on KPMG’s Reputation: While KPMG’s global reputation is certainly noteworthy, relying too heavily on it can make your response sound impersonal. Interviewers are looking for a deeper connection—why do you want to work at KPMG, beyond its well-known status? Try to focus on aspects of the company that align with your own values, career goals, and areas of expertise. This shows that your interest goes beyond surface-level recognition.
- Neglecting to Mention Your Fit: A strong answer should balance why KPMG appeals to you and why you are a good fit for KPMG. Some candidates spend the entire time praising the firm without demonstrating how their skills, experience, and goals align with the role and company. Be sure to tie your qualifications into how you would contribute to KPMG’s success, and how the firm would help you achieve your career ambitions.
- Overemphasizing Financial Incentives: Compensation is, of course, an important factor in choosing any job, but overemphasizing it in your "Why KPMG?" answer can send the wrong message. Avoid mentioning KPMG’s financial rewards and other competitive benefits like health care or work-life balance. Instead, concentrate on the firm’s culture, growth opportunities, and the meaningful work you’re excited to contribute to, and what makes you a better fit than other candidates.
- Failing to Differentiate KPMG from Other Big Four Firms: It’s not uncommon for candidates to confuse or conflate the Big Four accounting firms. To avoid this mistake, make sure your answer is specific to KPMG. Discuss what makes KPMG stand out to you compared to other firms—whether it’s their unique focus on innovation, specific industry expertise, or the company’s commitment to community and social responsibility. This shows that you’re intentional in your choice and truly interested in KPMG, not just any Big Four firm.
Prepare for Follow-Up Questions and Scenarios
After answering the "Why KPMG?" question, it is important to prepare for follow-up questions and scenarios. This includes anticipating potential concerns or objections the interviewer may have and preparing to address them in a thoughtful and confident manner. They may also ask follow-up questions on stories or experiences you mention in your answer, so be ready to go deeper into anything you include.
Example Answer to “Why KPMG?”
"I’ve always been passionate about solving complex business challenges, and my experiences in both academic settings and internships have cemented my interest in consulting as the ideal career path for me. During my time as a business strategy intern at [Company X], I had the opportunity to work closely with senior consultants on digital transformation initiatives. I loved the dynamic problem-solving aspect and the ability to make an immediate impact on clients' operations. However, I realized that I wanted to be part of a global firm that not only tackles these challenges but also prioritizes integrity, innovation, and professional development—which led me to KPMG.
I was particularly drawn to KPMG because of its reputation for being forward-thinking in areas like digital transformation and sustainability consulting. KPMG’s approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives aligns with my own values, and I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to projects that help clients achieve both financial success and positive social impact. I’ve followed KPMG’s work on these fronts closely, and I appreciate how your team is committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of today’s business landscape while maintaining high ethical standards.
What really solidified KPMG as my top choice, though, was speaking with [Current Employee] on the [specific team]. Our conversation gave me insight into the firm’s strong culture of mentorship and career development. I was impressed by the way KPMG invests in its people through initiatives like the Global Mobility program, which fits perfectly with my long-term goal of gaining international consulting experience. I also appreciated KPMG’s collaborative work environment and emphasis on diversity, something I strongly value.
In terms of fit, I believe my ability to approach problems creatively, combined with my experience working on cross-functional teams and leading client-focused projects, would allow me to contribute meaningfully to KPMG’s consulting team. At the same time, I’m excited about the opportunities that the firm offers for continued growth and development, especially in emerging areas like digital strategy. I see myself growing with KPMG, contributing to both client success and the firm’s long-term vision of being a leader in innovation and ethical consulting."
The #1 Most Effective Interview Preparation Tool
After helping thousands of job seekers navigate the interview process and land offers, we’ve seen that the absolute most effective way to succeed is to do a mock interview, particularly with an expert who has sat on the other side of the table and knows what to evaluate you on. A consulting or career coach will be able to provide personalized feedback grounded in real experience and knowledge of the firm. Below are some of the most popular consulting coaches, check out all of them – including former KPMG consultants – here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, answering the "Why KPMG?" interview question can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the purpose behind the question, researching the KPMG’s culture and values, and providing a personalized and authentic response, you can increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and securing the role. Additionally, by avoiding common mistakes, preparing for follow-up questions, and being genuine and honest in your response, you can demonstrate your potential as a valuable team member, and showcase your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
For additional resources, check out these articles:
- Demystifying KPMG: What Does the Acronym Stand For?
- How to Prepare for KPMG Management Consulting Networking Calls?
- How to Prepare for KPMG Management Consulting Behavioral Interviews?
- How to Prepare for KPMG Management Consulting Case Interviews?
- How to Network for Management Consulting
FAQs
Why do you want to join KPMG company?
- An example response to this question might sound like: “I want to join KPMG because of its strong reputation for innovation, professional development, and global impact. KPMG offers unique opportunities for growth through its focus on mentorship, diverse work environments, and commitment to solving complex business challenges across industries. The firm's dedication to integrity and sustainability aligns with my own values, making it an ideal place to build a meaningful career while making a positive impact.”
Why choose KPMG over other Big 4?
- KPMG stands out from other Big 4 firms due to its focus on employee development and well-being, cutting-edge initiatives in digital transformation, and commitment to social responsibility through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) programs. KPMG’s collaborative culture and personalized career growth opportunities make it an attractive option for professionals looking to make an impact while advancing their careers in a supportive environment.
Why do people like working at KPMG?
- People enjoy working at KPMG because of its inclusive, collaborative culture, and strong emphasis on professional growth. KPMG provides employees with numerous learning opportunities, mentorship programs, and the ability to work on diverse, impactful projects. The firm’s commitment to work-life balance, diversity, and making a positive difference in the world are other reasons employees value their time at KPMG. For students, KPMG also offers a Global Opportunities program with a lot of internships abroad.
What are KPMG's values?
- KPMG’s core values are integrity, excellence, courage, together, and for better. These values drive the firm’s commitment to ethical practices, high-quality client service, innovation, and fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. KPMG strives to lead with integrity, create positive change, and deliver lasting value to both clients and communities.
