Yasar Ahmad: Hidden Rules of Power, Promotion, Navigating Workplace Politics & How to WIN (EP115)

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In this episode, I sit down with Yasar Ahmad, a Leadership Coach, Career Advisor, and VP of HR, to discuss what truly defines success in the modern workplace. We explore the psychology of hiring, the difference between performance and perception, and how to build influence without losing authenticity.

From navigating multi-stage interviews to understanding Robert Greene’s Law #1: Never Outshine the Master, this episode is a masterclass in self-awareness, strategy, and career growth.

Inside the conversation we cover:
– How to balance gut instinct and fact-checking in hiring
– Behavioral interview techniques to reveal mindset
– The hidden power of competitiveness and passion
– Performance vs perception: who really gets promoted
– Multi-stage interviews and culture fit tests
– Writing job descriptions that inspire clarity and ownership
– Salary psychology and motivation: The 3+1 Effect
– Building influence through exposure, values, and networking
– The role of company values in leadership and decision making
– Robert Greene’s timeless lesson: Never Outshine the Master

Timestamps

00:01:54 – Navigating Hiring: Balancing Gut Instinct and Fact Checking
00:03:01 – Interview Strategy: Using Behavioral Questions to Reveal Mindset
00:05:12 – Hiring Senior Executives: Value of Passions Outside Work and Competitiveness
00:08:05 – Workplace Success: Performance vs. Perception and Exposure
00:09:47 – Multi-Stage Interviews: Assessing Values, Approach, and Culture Fit
00:11:24 – Importance of Clear Job Descriptions and To-Do/To-Not-Do Lists
00:14:22 – Psychological Impact of Salary Structures: The 3+1 Effect
00:20:16 – Building Influence at Work: Performance, Perception, and Networking
00:24:25 – Company Values as Navigational Tools for Hiring and Decision Making
01:03:13 – Robert Greene’s Law #1: Never Outshine the Master at Work