Recruiter Profile: Maria Luisa Goncalves, SAP

Name: Maria Luisa Goncalves

Company: SAP

Title: Early Career Talent Attraction

What do you think distinguishes a strong candidate for your company?

What we are looking for is passionate and committed people, who always go the extra mile in their day and do not believe that there are barriers or unreachable goals. Teamwork, resilience, curiosity and flexibility to adapt to changing situations are highly valued qualities for us.

How regularly do you hire Science and Tech students or alumni from IE?

IE is one of the most recognized universities worldwide without a doubt, your graduates are remarkably striving to develop the skills for the challenges of the future. IE students frequently participate in our selection processes.

What would you say is the most significant trend in the tech job market right now?

Cloud and digital transformation will undoubtedly continue to be a trending topic for years to come. Business process integration and agility in data analysis will facilitate business decision-making.

Please give three tips on how students should best approach recruiters to be most successful.

1. Nowadays LinkedIn is a very powerful platform to establish connections, but also to create your personal brand. Having an attractive public profile is the best cover letter when you decide to send a message to a recruiter or apply for a role. Pointing out your languages, interests and what makes you different will add extra points.
2. Be yourself and find your IKIGAI: Knowing your strengths and your professional career goals allows you tell us about your profile clearly and it will easily be remembered. Identify 2 or 3 strengths and be clear about your professional profile in any networking event.
3. Trying to understand the needs of the company, its business model, and its values will help break the ice and have a more fluid conversation.