Microsoft Recruiter Screening - Nontraditional hire

Question

So I just received a call from a Microsoft recruiter about a Product Design position and received a questionnaire I have to fill out. As a pivoter from a non-traditional background, how can I stand out and negotiate my T/C for this product design position? I dont want to get lowballed. Should I get a referral?

I've worked really hard transitioning from banking to UX/UI Design and just want to put out my best. Any helpful tips/guidance would be much appreciated!

Thatonehuman · Accepted Answer

Referrals always help but clearly articulating why your past roles / experiences make you a fit is crucial. I had classmates that went from completely non-design jobs to product positions, so it’s 100% doable. You just have to make sure you’re selling yourself and your previous experiences, and explaining why their a fit for this role.

ZTrope90 · Answer

With regard to negotiating comp, you might be able to leverage your non-traditional skillset as a strength. Not sure what you did in banking, but if it was front facing, you could lean on understanding customers, etc.

Typically though, especially with Microsoft and FAANG-level companies, those can be hard arguments to make and they typically like having more quantifiable data to justify the increase in comp, such as competing offers or if you're leaving a current job and leaving equity/bonuses on the table.

Microsoft Recruiter Screening - Nontraditional hire

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