At Bright Network, we love to see people who are enthusiastic about their jobs – and Francesca Fenton is definitely one of those people. The University of Southampton Law student will be starting as Graduate Project Manager at BAE Systems. She sat down with us to talk about the application process.
“BAE Systems is a wonderful company,” said Francesca. “You can really tell from the way that they recruit their graduates. A two day assessment centre in a lovely hotel, expenses paid, food provided!”
It wasn’t just the food that won Francesca over. She explained to us that BAE Systems values individuals for their passion and potential, not for the boxes they tick. That’s something we hear from Bright Network members every day. It’s an attitude that top companies share, which is why it’s so important to be yourself at interview.
Like many people, Francesca found the telephone interview to be the hardest part of the application process. “I was delighted that they didn't think I was a moron,” she admits, laughing. “The assessment centre was much less stressful. Everyone was so friendly and genuinely not out to trip you up. I really recommend the BAE application process! It was so quick and they didn't leave me hanging.”
As a Law student going into Project Management, Francesca was stepping outside her field of expertise – but despite her interviewer’s tough questions, she passed her interviews with flying colours.
“He wasn’t sure why I would choose Project Management. He said, ‘You won't know anything about what we do.' But I knew what I wanted, and I was confident in myself. I persevered with him and won him over in the end!”
And what are Francesca’s top tips for success at interview?
“Look good, feel good, eat well for breakfast and smile,” she says. “Then go out there and seize that job!”
