We recently caught up with Hannah about how she secured a Consultant role with BBC Studios, how she built commercial awareness before the interview and her top tips for Bright Network members looking to follow in her footsteps.
What stood out to you about BBC Studios?
There are a multitude of attributes that I admire about BBC Studios. Firstly, what stood out to me is the dominant presence BBC Studios has as a key player in the media industry! I want to contribute to the ongoing success BBC Studios is making, producing prestigious British television content. They are keen on embracing inclusivity and diversity and have a huge international presence, reaching audiences in every major continent whilst maintaining British creativity in all that they do and produce.
How did you build your commercial awareness before the interview?
Before the interview, I researched the current contributions BBC Studios was making in the industry. I did this by looking at their website and their social media. I also have the BBC News app on my phone, so I made sure I was reading the news articles highlighted, especially news stories from the television and entertainment sections. I read about how the Covid-19 pandemic brought about a surge in TV watching and online streaming, which was helpful in the interview as I got to ask my interviewers for their opinions about the article and how it had influenced their work.
What would be your top tip to members going through the application process?
In terms of the interview, I would say be your genuine and authentic self as they want to learn about your personality just as much as your experience and qualifications. It's also easy to suffer from imposter syndrome and self-doubt within the application process but making sure you have done efficient research and preparing for the specific psychometric tests and interviews you have is all that you can do as everything else is in the employer's hands. I would also suggest highlighting anything on your application that makes you unique as it will help you stand out from the hundreds of applications a company gets sent.
How did Bright Network help you secure this role?
Bright Network was super attentive to any questions that I had about the application process. The modules and courses offered on the website were super helpful especially the 'How to tackle virtual interviews’ module. I also used the free psychometric tests they offer which were super useful and improved my confidence for the real one I had for the role. I also completed the commercial awareness course they offered which improved my understanding of how the BBC operate internationally.
What’s been the toughest interview question you've faced and how did you tackle it?
One question that comes to mind is 'Could you describe excellence?' Initially, when I heard this I was surprised as it wasn't a question I was expecting. Despite knowing what the term meant, I was wary of the fact that my description of excellence might be completely different to the company's interpretation. However, I took some time to really think about my answer and came up with my own interpretation and gave examples from my personal and professional life as to how I measure excellence and how I demonstrate it.
Did you use Bright Network Academy in your career search and if so, how did it help you?
Bright Network Academy really helped me develop my core skills. It's a great way to improve any aspect of your application including your CV. I also got to learn more about the industry I would like to pursue. I personally used it to improve my commercial awareness and confidence in interviews. After taking the 'Tackling virtual interviews' module, I felt less pressure during my interview for the role. As it was my first virtual interview, I didn't know what to expect given the current climate and the module gave me tips that I believe enhanced my presentation and delivery throughout my interview for the role.
What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Don't rush your application! Try to efficiently research the company and proofread before you send it off.
- Don't let an unsuccessful application undermine your confidence. Rejections are common so see it as a way to make other applications even stronger.
- Make a note and be aware of deadlines during application periods so you don't miss any or send applications off last minute.
Let us know where you've secured your work experience, internship or graduate role. We want to celebrate your success with a gift from us and exclusive invitations to evening networking drinks throughout the year.
