As an observer at the Ernst and Young IA consulting challenge, I had the benefits of speaking to the competitors as well as the organizers of the contest. The competition packet received by each team evidenced a well-structured test of consulting, analysis, and presentation skills. I approached the E&Y team during an intermission in the contest to inquire on how this competition maps to the qualities and skills they look for in potential hires.According to Bill Schaumann, Sr. Manager at E&Y, the challenge is designed to test one’s problem-solving and consulting skills. “The IA Challenge addresses different business problems each year,” said Schaumann. “Since there is no constant set of variables, one’s ability to assess a problem, formulate a plan of attack, solve the problem, and provide meaningful feedback is tested.”Mr. Schaumann’s comments were elaborated upon by his team of E&Y advisors. Vicki Kamenova, Sr. Advisor at E&Y and graduate of Walsh College emphasized the importance of consulting skills in the context of the Challenge. “You must be able to build a rapport with the client from the moment you step in the room,” said Kamenova. “You must then present your assessment of the situation clearly and show how you add value. That is what we are looking for from the teams.”Professional consulting skills was a clear focus as my conversation with Ms. Kamenova’s colleagues continued. “This is not a regular 9-to-5 job” said one advisor. This became evident as they regaled me with stories of the recent engagements they completed. These stories illustrated the following traits that are valued by Ernst & Young. Consulting work is not for the timid. You must be respectful but also command respect from others. You be able to maintain composure and provide answers under all circumstances. The analytical mindset is common to most, if not all, E&Y personnel. My next blog post will profile the competitors, their approaches to the problem, and the lessons they learned. Related content opinion Positioning the Security Team Through Influence Part 1 Influence styles are a reflection of the influencers and, by extension, their team. Thus, they must understand the situations to which different styles are applicable. This series explores the common influence styles and their application. By Steven Fox Apr 21, 2012 3 mins Technology Industry IT Jobs opinion From Obstacle to Ally - Repositioning the Security Team Pt 1 By Steven Fox Apr 08, 2012 3 mins Technology Industry IT Strategy opinion Key Sessions at CISO Executive Summit 2011 By Steven Fox Dec 03, 2011 3 mins Business Continuity Data and Information Security Careers opinion Securing User Credentials On Mobile Devices By Steven Fox Nov 15, 2011 4 mins Data and Information Security Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe