We recently caught up with Harriet about how she secured a graduate role at Sky, how she built up her 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 the firm you secured your role with?
Aside from being aware of Sky's great service offerings, my interest in the company was initially sparked by the fact that all the Sky employees I met at careers fairs were so enthusiastic about their work and it was clear to me how much they enjoyed it.
The job role sounded exciting and included things I was looking for, such as the opportunity to work across lots of varied projects within the business.
I was also really impressed by the company's initiatives to give back to the community and their commitment to tackling environmental issues.
How did you build your commercial awareness before the interview?
Before beginning job applications, I signed up to free email newsletters on LinkedIn relating to industries I knew I had an interest in. This was a great way to keep up with developments in these industries and to learn more. The updates come straight to your inbox on a regular basis.
Before the interview, and whilst I was completing my initial application, I researched Sky as a company, the market they provide for and projects they were working on. I also found this process a really good way of ascertaining whether a firm is going to be the right fit for you as a potential employee and whether its values align with your own.
What would be your top tip to members going through the application process?
My tip would be just to be yourself and remember that the company is looking for your potential rather than expecting you to know everything from the outset.
Also, try to enjoy the process; the assessment centre is a great way to meet other candidates who have similar interests to you and to try new things and find out more about your strengths and where you perform well.
How did Bright Network help you secure this role?
I was able to find out more about Sky and its graduate schemes at the Bright Network Career Fair.
I also took part in the Business stream of Internship Experience UK and had previously attended a Bright Network networking event. Both these experiences helped me to build confidence in networking for the first time and to improve my commercial awareness.
What’s been the toughest interview question you've faced and how did you tackle it?
I once got asked in an interview "what frustrates you?" which sounds like a really easy question, but it caught me completely off guard. I answered honestly and included how I would approach a difficult or frustrating situation and look to resolve it.
Did you use Bright Network Academy in your career search and if so, how did it help you?
Yes, I found the online modules on application processes really helpful, especially in helping to know what I could expect or what might be part of an application process, and how I could best prepare for this. I also completed the free practise psychometric tests, and the tips on how to approach different types of tests and questions were really helpful.
What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Take advantage of accessible opportunities to learn more and practice networking.
- Remember that whether the company is a good fit for you is just as important as whether you are a good fit for them.
- Try to enjoy the application process as much as you can!
