A huge well done to Edward for securing an exciting graduate role at Babcock International Group. He was kind enough to share his experience of the application process as well as offer his three top tips for his fellow Bright Network members.
What attracted you to Babcock International Group and the role in particular?
My role of becoming a Graduate Mechanical Engineer in the Marine & Technology division has actually progressed from a summer placement with Babcock in Devonport Royal Dockyard, Plymouth. Precisely as advertised, this involved exciting work in collaboration with the MOD on the maintenance/refits of Royal Navy warships and nuclear submarines.
What I found most attractive however, was the genuine care for employees under the hazardous environments that you can imagine in a dockyard, and the unparalleled emphasis on safety compared to any other company. On successful completion, via strong recommendations from my line manager and colleagues, I have been invited back to work for the company – an opportunity I could not resist!
What was the toughest part of the application process? And your favourite part?
I am aware this may be a rather abstract response, but I found the toughest part was not knowing what the company was expecting in certain parts of the application. But again, if there wasn’t this sense of insecurity, then perhaps I wasn’t eager enough to work at the company – it’s reassuring to remember instead, everyone who applies goes through the same thing as each other!
Ironically, the accomplishment felt from completing an application, provided that you have done your homework and research, captured a great sense of achievement for me. This was because I was aware that if I were to be unsuccessful, I would not have failed for the wrong reason.
Were you surprised by anything in the process?
I was stunned by how relaxed and friendly my interviewer was towards me, particularly at the start, building up into more nitty gritty questions. Prior to the interview, I had envisaged a tough encounter in my mindset, but that’s not to say to treat interviews casually whatsoever now!
What three pieces of advice would you give to fellow BN members looking to follow in your footsteps?
1. Research. It is very apparent when there is a clear lack of research into the company you are applying for – the people interviewing you are most probably doing this on a regular basis and trained to carry out their role effectively in talent spotting.
2. Be yourself. I know this is possibly one of the most cliché pieces of advice to hear, but honestly that is the only way for both you and your employer to see whether you fit in and foresee yourself within the company’s work culture. Remember, working at a company should be in the interest of both parties and not just one.
3. Finally, get some sleep. Even if you are a pro at sleep deprivation and can pull off those all-nighters, you can’t hide your physical appearance including puffy eye bags!
Do you have a lucky charm or pre-interview ritual?
Even if I’m not tired, I always force myself to yawn just so that I feel more awake without dry eyes, but hey, that’s probably just me – I’m odd like that.
