“I’m smart, I work hard, and I get things done,” says former HR executive
“I’m smart, I work hard, and I get things done,” says former HR executive
Sabina Nawaz, a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience at Microsoft, offered valuable advice to job seekers
A career coach with 15 years of experience at Microsoft in the United States, including a role as senior director of human resources, has recently offered valuable advice for professionals preparing for job interviews. One key piece of guidance is to avoid generic statements such as “I’m smart, I work hard, and I get things done” when discussing your strengths.
It was also mentioned that when discussing how to showcase your strengths during an interview, it is beneficial to divide your stories into two key components: the challenge and the resolution.
Begin by clearly stating your strength, followed by a detailed explanation of the challenge you faced. Then, outline the steps you took to address the issue, linking that achievement back to your identified strength.
Finally, be sure to highlight the outcomes of your actions as well.
“I cannot tell you the number of people who simply don’t get the basics right. Spend about 50 percent of your time outlining the problem and 50 percent of the time outlining your strength,” she was talking to CNBC Make It.
It was also recommended to begin by identifying your strengths, followed by a detailed explanation of the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the impact on your success.
Sabina Nawaz, emphasized the importance of punctuality and ensuring that the camera is properly positioned during virtual interviews.
The former Microsoft executive, now leading her own consulting firm, mentioned that she compiles a collection of narratives for her clients, ensuring that professionals have a wealth of anecdotes readily available.
She further recommended that job seekers focus on mastering some fundamental aspects. For instance, it is important to arrive punctually, ensure the camera is properly aligned during virtual interviews, and to send a follow-up message expressing gratitude, she noted.
When collaborating with her clients, Nawaz emphasizes the importance of creating a collection of narratives. By the conclusion of their work together, clients find themselves equipped with numerous anecdotes to draw upon.
She strongly advocates for adopting this approach. This strategy ensures that no matter the questions posed during an interview, individuals can easily select and present the stories that are most pertinent and effectively highlight their strengths.
