Hello,I have been invited to the first round interview for the above position. They said it will take 3 hours in total would consist of verbal & numerical tests and an interview. They also told me to prepare a 500-word essay on general motors...I have read other threads for PA from this forum, but they didn't seem to ask for an essay before - is this only specific for marketing and strategy? What are they expecting from this essay? They said mention the overview and future issues on GM. Do you think they are gonna discuss the essay during the interview?Would be grateful for any help.Thank you!

what is your background if you don't mind me asking?

I'm in my final year in university and looking for a graduate job in consulting. Apart from that, what other info did you want to know about my background?

Hi,I think it must be just that dept that require an essay as I have a first round interview for FS and I only have the tests and the interview. I have found lots of useful info on doctorjobs about the tests and interview format.Good luck

University attended, sunjects studies, why strategy and marketing interests you, particular sectors...as I said i'm only curious as an interest in both strategy and marketing seems quite broad...

I'm a business student (sorry, I'm not very keen on putting too much personal info on web forums). Basically, their 'Strategy & Marketing' are one of their functions - PA bind them together.

These essays are used to ensure that youre not a complete muppet who can talk the talk but not walk the walk. These things are all about the arguments which you put forward, there is no right or wrong, just as long as you can back up your statements, then you'll be fine. Its analytical thinking that they're looking for. They will most likely ask you about the essay in the interview. But the questions will be "So why do you think X?", "What would you do if you were the marketing director of Ford?", with direct relation to the content of your essay. Maybe consider linking the content to some tool or methodology that you've learned during your studies. Consultants love this stuff!Anyway, good luck and please post back with any specific q's about PA.

Hi there. I currently work for PA within SMP. More than happy to help out. Leave your email and i'll get in touch.

Agreed - a few frameworks might help you structure your thinking - try PEST or maybe a SWOT

harvm@hotmail.comThanks PAer

Hi,Thank you for the offer. My email is hjyeu1@gmail.com.