Hewitt Associates Interview Questions

The application and interview process for Hewitt is as follows:

• Online application
• Online numerical reasoning test
• Assessment centre

Online Numerical Reasoning Test

This test consists of a number of scenarios in which you need to analyse some data and interpret numbers quickly. It is a standard test used by employers across the banking and finance industries, with the scoring reflecting the number of scenarios answered correctly in the set time period. It is very unlikely that you will get through all of the questions, but the more you manage to do, the higher your score will be. The mathematics itself is straightforward.

Assessment Centre

Assessment centres are usually scheduled to take place over the months leading up to Christmas and the New Year.

When you arrive for the assessment centre you will meet some of Hewitt's recent graduate recruits who will answer any questions you may have. You will also hear from a trainee consultants, who will talk about their work and study experiences to date, and an experienced consultant who will tell you more about the firm's business, work and some client experiences.

There will be further opportunity for you to talk informally to more people over lunch and during an office tour.

The Hewitt assessment centre is made up of five portions, introductions, lunch and an office tour:

• Numerical reasoning test
• Written exercise
• Group exercise – debate
• Individual exercise – task planning
• Interview

Numerical Test

This test will be a paper-based numerical test, similar to the online numerical test you have already completed. The focus will be on financial scenarios that you might encounter in your work at Hewitt. Calculators will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Written Test

For this exercise, you will be asked to write a short memo to summarise your interpretation of the sort of information that you might find when advising one of Hewitt's clients. As well as demonstrating your ability to write clearly and effectively, you will need to be able to analyse information and make a recommendation. You won’t be expected to know anything about pension schemes, actuarial techniques or investments. Your ability to clearly and concisely communicate is the main skills being tested during this assessment.

Group Debate Exercise

All of the candidates on the assessment day will be separated into two teams to debate an issue given to you before the assessment day. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to communicate verbally during the debate as well as your teamwork and communication skills when preparing for the debate.

You will be given the topic for debate prior to the assessment day so that you can carry out your own research, although you will not find out which side of the debate you will be on, until the official assessment day.

Individual Task Planning Exercise

You will be given an individual exercise in which you will be asked to plan a task. You will have some time on your own to prepare before discussing your ideas with two of our assessors. They will be looking for an innovative approach to the task and a project plan that will ensure that the task is completed on time and to a high standard.

Interview

Your interview will be conducted by two assessors who will use the opportunity to find out more about you as an individual, your experiences and aspirations. Personality is a big factor when building successful relationships with clients, and will be a big factor during the interview.