How to Land a Job at Microsoft (Insider Tips from a Hiring Manager)

If you’re a mid to senior-level professional aiming to break into big tech, this episode is for you. Tarek Azoz, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft—with experience in companies like Aramco—shares actionable strategies, insider hiring insights, and the exact things Microsoft looks for in candidates.
In this episode, we cover:
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: Tarek’s journey from Syria to landing roles at Aramco and Microsoft
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: What Microsoft really looks for in a strong candidate
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: How to tailor your resume for big tech roles
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: How to stand out in interviews and avoid common mistakes
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: Why doing research matters more than most candidates think
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: How to use AI tools (properly) to upgrade your job search
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: Whether AI is a threat—or an opportunity—for career growth
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: How professionals can prepare for the future of work
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: The #1 trait Microsoft hiring managers want to see in interviews
:marca_de_verificación_blanca: Practical advice for landing jobs in top global companies
:chincheta: Timestamps
0:00 – Welcome to the ChinUp Career Podcast
0:28 – Introducing Tarek Azoz (Microsoft Senior Program Manager)
1:05 – Tarek’s journey from Syria to tech
3:13 – First jobs: help desk, system engineering, switching careers
5:21 – Breaking into Aramco and career pivots
7:40 – How Tarek landed his first Microsoft role
9:10 – What candidates MUST know before applying to Microsoft
11:05 – Why tailoring your resume is non-negotiable
12:30 – Showing real interest in the company (and why it matters)
14:02 – How to stand out during a Microsoft interview
15:30 – Researching the team, the role, and the company
17:15 – What Microsoft values: culture, DEI, mission
18:40 – How hiring managers judge candidates in the first 5 minutes
20:12 – Why passion + preparation beat “perfect experience”
21:10 – Using AI tools to upgrade your resume and applications
23:05 – AI replacing jobs vs. being a tool for growth
25:30 – Staying relevant: learning, upskilling, future-proof skills
27:42 – Final tips for landing roles at big tech companies
29:10 – Closing thoughts
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Microsoft, Big Tech Jobs, Career Advice, Job Search Tips, Microsoft Interview, Resume Tips, Tech Careers, Professional Growth, Hiring Manager Insights, ChinUp Podcast, Career Development, Job Market, AI & Careers, How to Get Hired, Job Seekers, Leadership, Microsoft Careers, Tarig Azuz, Nidal Khaznadar, ChinUp Global