Having a high GPA is no longer enough to stand out in today’s competitive job market. As industry demands continue to evolve, critical thinking skills, recruitment readiness, and the ability to demonstrate personal value have become increasingly important factors in securing employment opportunities.
These insights were highlighted during the PwC Indonesia Campus Hiring 2026 event, “Start with PwC: Build Your Professional Edge,” held on Friday (May 8, 2026) at Djarum Hall Auditorium, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM). The event provided students and recent graduates with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the professional world and prepare for the industry’s evolving needs.
The Insider Session allowed participants to get to grips with PwC’s various service lines, including Assurance, Consulting, Advisory, and Tax & Legal. PwC professionals shared insights into their roles, workplace culture, career experiences, and practical tips for navigating the recruitment process.
A practitioner from the Consulting division, Yohannes Kurniawan, emphasized the importance of adapting to technological advancements, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in professional settings.
“We need to manage our time more efficiently by adapting to AI, using it to support our work and analyze tasks more quickly,” he said.
The event also featured discussions on interview strategies and career preparation, providing participants with practical guidance for entering the workforce. Applicants were encouraged to thoroughly understand the positions they apply for and clearly demonstrate how their experiences and values align with the company’s needs.
Assurance Director at PwC Indonesia, Arnia Azalia, stressed that preparation is a crucial component of the recruitment process. It includes developing the hard, soft, and technical skills required for the targeted role.
“It is essential to understand the position you are applying for. Preparation is a critical aspect that includes strengthening both hard and soft skills, as well as the technical knowledge relevant to the role. Many candidates fail not because they lack intelligence, but because they become too nervous, go blank during interviews, and do not prepare adequately,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Tax and Legal Services Manager at PwC Indonesia, Alfrinno Archon, encouraged job seekers to engage in self-reflection to identify their unique strengths, relevant experiences, and distinguishing qualities. He noted that this process is essential for building a strong personal brand.
“Ever” one is a global top talent, and what often makes the difference is opportunity screening and a bit of luck. You need to have a unique value proposition and a willingness to learn new things continuously,” he said.
According to him, critical thinking is another key advantage in today’s market. Candidates not only need to excel academically but also to demonstrate their ability to think analytically, conduct research, and solve problems when addressing case studies and workplace challenges.
Reporter: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Sustainable Development Goals
