An Effective Manager

Zahera Patel (M.B.A. ’19) sees an M.B.A. as more than a career opportunity. She also sees it as a way to enhance one’s personality. “In classroom presentations, we get a chance to pick up various tips for effective communication, using appropriate gestures, stage presence, voice improvement, and build confidence,” she says. “So, I was looking for something that would help me develop my personality in terms of overcoming the fear of speaking in public and approaching unknown people.” Patel spoke to The Box about why she chose New York Tech-Vancouver and what drew her to a career in human resources (HR).

Why did you choose New York Tech?
I learned about New York Tech from a friend. And what I found attractive about the university, apart from the classroom lectures and studies, is they also focus on campus life events. This helps a lot of international students like us to overcome homesickness and cultural shock. It also gives us an opportunity to explore the city and meet people out of university. Also, the staff was very approachable when I inquired about the courses and they were very welcoming.

How did you become interested in human resources?
I realized that I enjoy helping people as well as working with and for people. It’s about putting your employees first, helping them develop, and taking care of the assets of your organization. And, of course, as an HR employee, you can influence strategic business decisions.

Tell us about your day-to-day tasks.
I am responsible for assisting the HR team at Bureau Veritas Canada with recruitment efforts and initiatives for all client groups. I prepare and track approvals for job requisitions; post internal and external job advertisements; screen, evaluate, and recommend candidates to hiring managers for interviews; schedule and facilitate interviews; conduct reference and background checks; draft offer letters and employment contracts; facilitate new hire orientation and training; maintain HR trackers and ensure accuracy of data; create employee letters for status changes, promotions, employment verification letters, and terminations; and review employee files and ensure accurate and timely documentation and filing. I also collaborate with the HR business partner and assist in the execution of HR projects and initiatives, and work closely with payroll on new hire setups and status changes and updates.

What is the best advice you received?
Enjoy what you are doing, and you will do your best. Choose a career path according to what interests you, as it will be with you for your lifetime.