Sales Excellence Manager

Leeya Patel

Science and Research

Placement (10 Months+)

Microsoft

What was the application process like?

Process simpler than other applications. Simply a tailored cover letter & CV, was very easy to follow and understand the 3-step process from the beginning on the “job board”. Communications between HR and myself were clear.

What was the interview process like?

The video interview was around 30 minutes, more like a conversation for the interviewer to get to know me. The assessment centre was well structured, lots of chances to get your true personality across with individual interview & group tasks.

What advice would you give to students applying for your role? (I am a Sales Excellence Manager in Services)

In Business Operations, have strong Excel & data analysis skills. Be able to understand sales processes and how Microsoft works. When applying – be truthful to yourself and set the right expectation of who you are and what you are passionate about in life

How much responsibility do you have?

At Microsoft you must seek responsibility, by doing smaller jobs, you will gain trust for more work. Work is not handed to you; you need to network and gain opportunities through getting to know people in your team and wider business.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

I enjoy the ability to make the role my own, challenge myself in understanding new concepts or sales processes. I like that I have responsibility to provide insight for the entire Services business.

What has been your biggest challenge?

To be able to network and be proactive about gaining experience and work. At Microsoft everyone is approachable and friendly, but it took me a while to get used to approaching others and finding work myself instead of being given it.

How has this experience exceeded your expectations?

The variation of skillset and knowledge I have gained has been invaluable. From learning about how to be more inclusive in the workplace, sharing my passions in sustainability and making an impact in driving key metrics to make our business succeed.

What is the ofﬁce atmosphere like?

An open, inclusive, and caring environment, if you are stressed there are many different people you can reach out and talk to. It is casual because people create a trusting environment, come as you are, do what you love.

How promising are the graduate prospects?

If you have made significant impact and shown your worth in the year, the graduate prospects are very promising. If you have performed well you will get the chance to apply.