9 Questions with Ms. Nicole King

With over 27 years’ accumulated experience in the areas of Strategic Human Resource Management, Administration, Marketing & Sales, Customer Service, Banking & Finance, Portfolio Management, Change Management, Employee engagement, Performance Management and Process Management, Ms. Nicole King is an executive with a passion for people, continuous learning and results. Ms. King has a B.A. (Hons) from Andrews University (USA) as well as a Master’s of Human Resource Management (Distinction) from the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business where she was the Valedictorian for her graduating class. She held several positions within the banking, technology, automotive, manufacturing and telecommunications sectors.

 For the past 14 years Ms. King has experienced notable career progression specifically in Human Resource Management with levels of increasing responsibility. She served as Human Resource Manager and Sector Human Resource Manager at ANSA McAL – Automotive Division, Human Resource Business Partner at Unilever Caribbean Limited, and most recently as Human Resource Director at Digicel (T&T) Limited. In 2008, she was awarded the distinction of being one of the ‘top 30 women’ in the ANSA McAL Group of Companies across the Caribbean and the USA. 

1. How long have you been an HR professional?

        Approximately 14 years

2. What is the first thing you look for, after work experience, on a potential candidate’s resume?

       I look at the persons Education/Qualifications.

3. In your opinion, what makes a candidate stand out?

      Knowledge, skills, and experience garnered over the years, as well as, a progression in career.

4. What are some issues HR Managers, like yourself, encounter with graduates?

    Lack of analytical skills and an inability to look at a problem and clearly identify possible         next steps/solutions to resolving the problem.

5. What are some major characteristics HR Managers look for when considering a candidate?

• Analytical mind-set
• Strategic and operational exposure
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results
• Personality fit

6. In these changing time, how do persons stay relevant?

    Regularly updating or acquiring new knowledge in the area of expertise as well as general management/people management areas. New insights can be garnered via educational programmes, journals, magazines, relevant social media platforms such as LinkedIn groups, etc.

7. What kind of behaviours would an HR manager expect from someone who has graduated from a business school?

• Analytical mind-set: problem-solving, creativity, innovative approach to issues or challenges
• Professionalism (Appearance, communication style, etc.)
• Knowledgeable about Industry/specialist area
• High level of confidence in their ability to perform the job

8. When it comes to cutting staff, how can a person distinguish themselves to avoid being cut?

    Constantly adding value - delivering above and beyond on their specific KPI’s and supporting other functional areas by providing solutions to issues they may have (a “fresh     pair of eyes/outside looking in” advantage) or participating in projects that support                 strategic and/or operational efficiencies in other areas of the business.

10. Delivering results has been identified as the number one characteristic desired by employers. To what extent is this a personality based orientation or something that can be learnt?

     It is equally a trait and an acquired characteristic. Being results oriented or wanting to achieve a goal or objectives can be innate and come naturally to persons, such as individuals who are competitive by nature and want to excel at everything that they do both personally and professionally.

However, I also believe that a person can be provided with the tools and techniques which establishes a clear plan or blueprint for achieving a goal or objective. By following this blueprint, they can successfully deliver the specified results. As a graduate, we are equipped to provide that level of coaching to our employees and co-workers, in that way the organisation’s goals and objectives can be realised.

Are you interested in finding out more on what Hiring Managers are looking for in a potential candidate and how the International MBA helps you meet these requirements?

Then attend a FREE session on Thursday 11th May, 2017 at the Lok Jack GSB's North Campus where you can speak with Ms. Nicole King and learn how the International MBA can help you:

• Become a strategic leader with the capacity to create innovative approaches to problem solving
• Make more informed decisions
• Develop the competencies that will propel your career
• Meet the requirements needed in today's job market