Your workload will be large at BAE Systems. How do you balance life and work?

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Entry Level Example
Natural Balance Example
Take Time for Myself Example
Community Answers

A healthy work/life balance prevents burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.

Remember to research the culture of BAE Systems before your interview. Their website offers a sense of what flexibility and balance mean to their company. Ensuring your answer is in line with their specific culture will demonstrate your interest in their values and ability to maintain a work/life balance.

"I am very excited at the possibility of working here at BAE Systems. A heavy workload will lead directly to the experience I am motivated to acquire. Balance for me includes working hard and learning as much as I can. However, I recognize the importance of downtime, and I have a number of activities I regularly participate in that help to support my physical and mental wellness. I feel confident these activities will help me to maintain balance if selected for the open position."

"I find that, with the right company, it's simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesn't feel like a chore. When I'm at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and regenerate before the work week begins."

"I understand that every day will not be balanced. I can achieve a great work/life balance most days when I take some time to do something for myself, whether that be a quick workout or cooking a delicious meal when I get home. I noticed on your company website that flexibility is part of the culture at BAE Systems plc. I love that the employees can speak to the company's support for their wellness."

Anonymous Answer

"I always found that the right position does not feel like a chore - I have a real passion for what I do, and for sustainability, therefore I feel that I make a difference every day. Naturally, sometimes pressure can be higher, and that is ok while we remember that evenings and weekends are there to take some time out and recharge! It is also my understanding that the employees' health and well-being are very important to the company, as part of its ESG objectives so I’m looking forward to hearing more about that."

Krista's Feedback

This is a good start, but I suggest describing some activities you enjoy to recharge. The interviewer would like to gain insight into your personality and interests to see that you do have a healthy work/life balance.

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Anonymous Answer

"I believe, with the correct mindset, a good balance can be achieved. If I’m at work, that will become my priority and, if I’m enjoying what I am working on, then this won’t feel too strenuous. However, when I am at home, my family will become my priority. I also make sure I have time to do the things I enjoy."

Marcie's Feedback

It's great that you value the right balance of life and work. Consider talking more about why this is important to you (e.g., it's good for your mental health, it keeps you energized and enthusiastic about your work, etc.) Some other balancing techniques you might mention include taking occasional breaks, prioritizing your health (e.g., exercising, resting, managing stress and your mental health, and so on), practicing self-compassion, communicating boundaries to others, unplugging when you're at home, taking prescheduled vacations, letting go of perfectionism, and so on. Build out your answer more by talking about some of these additional ways that you plan to balance your work and personal life. Show the interviewer that this matters to you because you always want to give your best while at work. Nice job!

Anonymous Answer

"I am excited at the possibility to start work with BAE and enjoy keeping busy. A heavy workload is ideal as it will motivate me to work harder and more efficiently, as I have found juggling A levels and a part-time job. However, I am aware of the importance of the balance between life and work thus I plan times throughout my week which are dedicated to socializing and self-care."

Marcie's Feedback

Great! Your enthusiasm about the role and the company shines through, which the interviewer will really appreciate. How exactly did you manage to juggle A levels and your job? Can you discuss how you balanced that?