What are the strengths that EY are looking for in assurance jobs?

I'd say that the strengths EY looks for in assurance align with that of many (if not all positions) at EY.

People tend to assume that you need to be an expert at Maths for assurance and that you need a degree in accountancy etc. Realistically, we have people from all Education backgrounds join Assurance so as long as you have a decent grasp on numbers and computers, you will be able to succeed.

I would focus more on building your people skills. EY tends to respect those with strong morale values and those who are willing to learn. (We would much rather an amateur who is willing to learn than an expert who isn't willing to participate!) Moreover, you spend 99% of this job dealing with people. Whether it be the external management or the internal team.

Hence, it boils down to: approachability, teaming and respect for those around you. Sounds like a very corporate response but it really is that simple!

I completely agree with Michael's answer above - teamwork and communication skills are one of the most important aspects of working in Assurance. You'll spend a lot of time working with staff at your office, but you'll also likely work with staff from other UK offices when you are assigned stock counts. You'll also work alongside client's staff, so ensuring that you can communicate effectively and professionally will go a long way to helping you build relationships and deliver an effective audit.

I think confidence is also really important - not just being confident in working with clients and performing audit procedures, but being confident enough to admit when you are unsure of something or could use further guidance. I am still learning some aspects of the role, and I cannot tell you how many times I have had to ask a member of my team for guidance when I encounter something new, or had to check with a client that I have understood how a certain process works. I can tell you, though, that everyone I have worked with has been more than happy to answer my questions. Like Michael says above, EY really value people who are willing to learn, and the best way to do that is to ask when you are unsure.

Finally, I would add that the ability to take responsibility for managing your workload is valuable in any role, but especially working in Assurance. There's a lot of variety in the role - for example, during December I had to balance working on my regular client with planning for and attending several stock counts. If you can plan your work effectively and make sure you are leaving yourself enough time to complete your tasks, then it will help you handle anything that can come up!