Virtual Business Management Work Experience Review

A sound understanding of the concepts, core values and beliefs related to CIMA and the ability to identify the skills needed to pursue a career in Accounting, Banking or Finance, e.g. Communication and Problem Solving skills. Applied knowledge gained by completing quizzes, interactive exercises and activities. Gained a better understanding of the career pathways with CIMA, e.g. Cyber Security, Management Accounting. Knowledge of key employability and transferable skills, as well as a sound awareness of employer expectations.

Skills gained included the ability to analyse financial problems (discussed roles of accountants and how the CIMA qualification prepares you for a similar role). Also developed logical reasoning and situational judgement (completed psychometric tests and numerical tests in order to practice for apprenticeship assessment centers and application process. Commercial awareness developed through group discussion.

Really enjoyed the experience, went above my expectations because there were specific sessions we attended throughout the day to develop our skills and understanding of the CIMA qualification. We were also supported with tips and tricks on how to impress employers/HR when completing the assessment center, including team building skills.

The virtual work experience was only one day, but it was very well organised. It was hosted by Young Professionals via Zoom, and an itinerary (as well as several reminder emails) were sent out in advance. There were plenty of breaks and enough time for Q and A at the end of each session.

The session was aimed at prompting and persuading students to complete the CIMA qualification, as well as providing a greater insight into what Business Management is about and how CIMA can benefit you. The structure of the qualification was simple, effective and could be easily understood, and the presentations made the CIMA qualification sound promising.

It definitely helped me to gain a greater insight into what working in Business is really like. It was beneficial in helping students to find employers or companies find apprenticeships that taught or provided the CIMA qualification. We were also introduced to different employee perspectives in how completing CIMA has benefited them in their role.

No, I was not paid or reimbursed for the CIMA Business Management Virtual Work experience (insight event) , because it was not a paid placement. Instead it was an insight into the roles within business. There were no travel costs, or meal costs, or social costs. The location was via Zoom.

Definitely opportunities for networking, because in each session we were introduced to different employees from various companies including Sky and KPMG. We were able to ask questions regarding their roles and how they felt completing the CIMA qualification had helped them to succeed and could connect with them via LinkedIn.

Yes

The CIMA qualification includes many different subjects, from accounting and finance, to management with the business skills and techniques that are needed to be a knowledgeable member of any organization. Although completing an apprenticeship and a qualification can be a challenge (multi-tasking) the work/industry experience as well as a professional qualification is ideal.

CIMA is not only for apprentices or school leavers, anybody is able to complete it. If you are a graduate with an accounting/finance background or something similar, you are able to apply for exemptions so that the qualification does not take as long to complete. The CIMA website has more details on employers providing the qualification.