Microsoft HR Expert’s Interview Tip

A former Microsoft HR executive, Sabina Nawaz, has shared valuable interview tips, urging job seekers to avoid vague statements like “I work hard.” Instead, she advises structuring responses effectively to highlight problem-solving skills. Her insights can help candidates stand out in job interviews. Here’s what she recommends for success.

Avoid Generic Responses

Sabina Nawaz, who spent 15 years with Microsoft as a senior director of human resources, warns against using generic phrases like “I’m smart, I work hard, and I get things done.” In an interview with CNBC Make It, she explained that such responses fail to make an impression on recruiters.

Structure Your Answers for Impact

Nawaz advises candidates to divide their responses into two clear sections: the problem and the solution. She suggests dedicating 50% of the answer to explaining the challenge and the remaining 50% to detailing how they resolved it. A strong response should: - Begin with a specific strength. - Describe a real-world problem faced. - Explain the steps taken to resolve the issue. - Highlight the outcome and its impact.

Prepare a Story Library

To excel in interviews, Nawaz recommends preparing a “story library” with multiple anecdotes that can be adapted based on the job role and interview context. This approach helps candidates sound more confident and well-prepared.

Basic Interview Etiquette

Beyond crafting strong responses, she emphasizes the importance of interview etiquette: - Arrive on time for in-person or virtual interviews. - Ensure the camera is well-positioned in online interviews. - Follow up with a thank-you note to express gratitude and reinforce interest. By following these expert tips, job seekers can present themselves as strong candidates and improve their chances of landing their desired roles.

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