Your practice track for Consulting Associate
at EY Philippines

Philippine-specific tips for this role

• ▸ Avoid starting your answer with 'Actually po, sir/ma'am...' or overusing 'po' and 'opo' in an English interview. Filipino candidates sometimes soften disagreements too much, like 'Medyo hindi po ako sang-ayon...' which can sound hesitant. Instead, use direct but respectful phrases like 'I respectfully disagree because...' and maintain a confident tone. Also, don't over-apologize with 'Sorry po' repeatedly; a simple 'I understand your point, but...' suffices.
• ▸ Avoid filler phrases like 'Kasi po...' or 'Actually, parang...'. In Taglish, we often start sentences with 'Actually' which can weaken your statement. Also, don't begin with 'Uhm, sorry po, ma'am...'; just state your answer calmly. Keep it direct: 'In this situation, I would...' Don't over-explain with 'siya kasi...' (like blaming the client indirectly).
• ▸ Avoid generic answers like 'I want to work in a Big 4' or 'SGV is a prestigious firm.' Don't try to flatter excessively in Taglish, like 'Sobra pong nakaka-inspire...' It can sound insincere. Also, don't use 'po' in 'I believe in your values po'; it undermines professionalism. Use English firmly: 'Your value of integrity resonates with me because...'
• ▸ Avoid using 'parang' or 'yung parang' too much: 'So parang, yung regression, parang...' This can make you sound unsure. Also, don't fall into the trap of over-explaining with Taglish: 'Tapos ito na ang mangyayari, sobrang complicated na siya pero ganito na lang po...'. Instead, use clear, structured English and pause to check understanding. Don't say 'Sorry po, mahirap kasi i-explain'; just try a different approach.
• ▸ Avoid sweeping statements like 'Alam niyo naman po, sobrang daming fintech ngayon...' which sounds unprofessional. Don't overuse 'parang' or 'diba?' to seek agreement. Also, avoid starting with a long 'Ah, actually...'; get to the point. Use data and specific examples instead of generalizations. Common mistake: mixing Taglish phrases like 'sobrang bilis ng change, diba po?' Stick to clear English with well-researched points.