Right from the outset I found DBASS to be different from the other firms that I had applied to. While other firm’s application processes tended to be extremely complex and time consuming, the DBASS application process was comprehensive and straight to the point.
Sarah Goggin- DBASS Trainee Story
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Sarah is an Accountancy and Finance Graduate from Dundalk Institute of Technology. In July 2021 she started her journey with DBASS to become a Chartered Accountant.
Right from the outset I found DBASS to be different from the other firms that I had applied to. While other firm’s application processes tended to be extremely complex and time consuming, the DBASS application process was comprehensive and straight to the point. The process with DBASS consisted of the application form, followed by a telephone interview, a one-to-one interview (which took place over Zoom due to Covid-19) and then a job offer.
At every stage of the process I knew what stage was next and when I would hear back from DBASS. Upon accepting the job offer, everything was explained fully to me, including next steps in the process. Even before I started with DBASS there were regular check-ins to see how I was getting on with college and just in general.
DBASS is my first accounting practice job so coming up on my first day, I was extremely nervous and really did not know what to expect. However I was put at ease as soon as I went through the front door. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. I was given a “Welcome Pack” which included all the details that the firm felt I needed including an “Employee Handbook” which I later found extremely useful in learning the “DBASS Way” of doing things.
On my first day I was also assigned a “work-buddy”. The purpose of the “work buddy” is to offer new trainees access to another trainee who has already experienced the early days of their training and who is now in a position to offer guidance and support to new starters. I was made feel as though I could ask them anything, about my work or the company itself.
When I first saw all the different systems used in DBASS I did wonder, “How am I ever going to know how to use all these different systems? Where do I even start?” However I have felt fully supported during my learning journey and have never felt that I could not ask a question of either a manager, partner or other trainee. Everyone has had great patience with me and the support I have gotten is astonishing.
I choose to work at DBASS above other firms because it offers me the opportunity to learn about different areas of accounting, such as non-audit, audit, taxation, finance etc. In other firms I felt as though I might remain in one department doing the same repetitive work continuously without the necessary support system. In DBASS, every day is different with a fresh new task and plenty of opportunity to learn.
I have high expectations for my future in DBASS and the support I no doubt will continue to receive throughout my journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant with Chartered Accountants Ireland.
On my first day I was also assigned a “work-buddy”. The purpose of the “work buddy” is to offer new trainees access to another trainee who has already experienced the early days of their training and who is now in a position to offer guidance and support to new starters. I was made feel as though I could ask them anything, about my work or the company itself.