CACEE form madness...tips to weather the storm and stand out

So as I promised in earlier posts, I thought since we are knee deep in the recruitment process, I would give out some tips for everyone in Winnipeg filling out the dreaded CACEE forms. They are daunting. There are a lot of them. They take time, but check out my tips and hopefully they will be a little less dreadful, and maybe they’ll be the foot in the door you need.

Tip 1: Customize it: When I went through recruitment as a co-op student, we were required to apply to 12 different firms in order to maximize placements. That’s 12 CACEE forms! But I’m happy to say I practiced what I preached. Customizing your CACEE form for each firm is very important and it can be a make or break decision. I have read over the CACEE forms when helping to sift through the applicants and I can tell you that there is a difference between a stock/standard response, and one that shows the student put the time in. Each firm has their similarities, but there are also big differences. Key in on those and make it different each time, because we can tell. (FYI: turn off “track changes”. We don’t need to see the letter to another firm as well.)

Tip 2: Do some research: You’re reading a blog by a PwC member. Great start, but there is a lot more information out there. We have websites, pamphlets, and other co-op students all over campus. Use these resources to get to know the firm and get to know the culture. There are key terms in there that show what we feel is important and if you can clue into those, it gives you an idea what our cultures is, and it gives you a leg up. If you like the idea of the PwC Foundation, talk about it. If you have heard about our sports teams, bring it up. Showing an interest cannot hurt your chances and it shows us you cared enough to do some fact checking.

Tip 3: Start on them early: I might have mentioned this in an earlier post, but time is not on your side right now. There is a lot going on with school and the deadline is fast approaching. Do your research now and then get started on putting together a rough skeleton. Then add things as recruitment passes by.

Tip 4: Make it personal: This is likely the first contact we will have with you once the recruitment process has started. Make it memorable. There is going to be an ASBAA Wine and Cheese before the deadline and I definitely recommend attending that event. During the W&C you will meet our recruiters, our staff, and get to know us a little. Put that into your CACEE form so we can put a face to the name and bring up the awesome memories of meeting you.

Tip 5: Be professional: it ain’t a txt to ur bff.

Tip 6: Make it count: We are looking for professional, energetic, and valuable recruits. Show us your strengths and sell yourself. This is a big step and make sure you give it your all.

I hope these helped and let me know if you have any questions, tips to share, or need some help with them. I can’t wait to meet you guys soon and start seeing some of the CACEE forms.

Cheers,

 

PS: Hope to see you at the first preseason game tonight. GO JETS GO!