Scrum DECODED

YOUR NAME Company
PRESENTS
DECODED
Your ultimate guide to unerring interviews
www.skillbookacademy.com
1
©2023 Skillbook Academy. All Rights Reserved.
PREFACE
Due to increased competition, landing a dream job has gotten harder in
recent years. Job searching takes time and can occasionally be stressful.
However, there are still some job seekers who manage the job search
scenario with calm and ease.
What distinguishes them from the majority who are having difficulty
finding employment in the current market? It is the ideal course of
action.
If you don't have the correct strategy for dealing with this period, the
job may seem far-fetched to you and gradually discourage you .
This comprehensive e-book has been put together to help you acquire
the appropriate strategies and frame the right mindset.
It has 4 main chapters starting from:
▪ Chapter One : Mindsets for successful job search in current

market conditions
▪ Chapter Two : Strategies for getting more interview calls
▪ Chapter Three : How to kill it in the interview
▪ Chapter Four : Expected interview questions and potential
answers; Scrum Masters, Product Owner and Product Manager
In order to aid your understanding and enable you to use the

information in practical settings, we have made an effort to clarify the
points through examples.
The book concludes with some additional pointers to make the
interview process less daunting.
1
Mindsets for Successful CHAPTER
Job ONE
Search
Job searching is a tedious process. At times, it can

emotionally drain you and pull you away from your ultimate
objective. This chapter is all about assisting you in creating
the mindset that you need to remain on course and map your
quest.
It consists of 6 parts:
▪ Sales Mindset
▪ Mastery
▪ Slight Edge Principle
▪ Mindset to accept rejections
▪ Self Belief
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Sales Mindset
It's possible to equate the job search process to a sales

game; companies looking for your services are your
potential
customers. Think of it like a specific product you choose
from all the available choices. Why is that purchase for you
so
simple and easy?
The quality of the product is important, but

so are the brand's marketing strategies. So promote yourself in
a way that would make businesses want to say "YES"
immediately.
Communicate your expertise effectively so that they resonate
with you.
Make an effort to stand out from the crowd.
You have no control over how many people apply for the job
you want, but you do have power over how you can stand out
from the other hundred.
It's just one opportunity you got to grab. Exhibit your

skills in the right way!
2
Mastery
Develop a mastery mindset and a desire to learn the

subject in depth.
A firm grasp of the fundamentals gives you a head start
in standing out from the crowd. Your chances of closing
the deal are higher if you know the what, why, and how of
Agile.
You can approach an interview with confidence if you have a
firm command over the fundamental concepts and are aware of
the subtleties around them. It conveys to the interviewer that
you are genuinely interested in this profession and will make an
excellent employee.
▪ Watch Youtube videos.
▪ Read relevant books
▪ Attend free webinars
▪ Enroll yourself in inexpensive courses
Understanding with an example:

Nearly everyone is familiar with what a daily standup is. But
when it comes to mastery, the focus is on digging deeper to
comprehend why having a daily standup is crucial, the risks of
not having so daily standups, and how to handle a scenario
where the team does not perceive the value of daily standup.
So be strategic about your approach to mastering yourself.
3
Slight Edge Principle
One job, hundred applicants. The game is real, and so

should your strategies. It's easy to copy what others are
doing, but landing a job requires you to exhibit your value
and uniqueness.
Develop a mindset where you prioritize the slight

edge principle. It's always good to have the qualifications
others would have for a particular job role, but you also
should;
▪ Consider choosing certifications that are less likely to be

held by candidates for the position.
▪ Consider getting certified across several categories.
Understanding with an example:

Say you are applying to become a scrum master. Now, it is
evident for you and all others applying for the job to have a
SSM certification. However, what makes you stand out is
having a SSM certification along with a couple of others in
various fields. This way, you will undoubtedly gain the
necessary edge to make yourself look unique and more
knowledgeable than others.
Why be basic when you can book that slight edged spot with
the right certification?
4
Mindset To Accept Rejections
Switching careers is popular these days. It's also common

to experience rejection during those transitional times.
Rejection shouldn't discourage you from continuing with
your job search.
The likelihood that you will wind up lacking confidence and

having self-doubts is significant if you do not have the
mindset to handle rejection. Remember that NO is a part of
this journey and that you are not the only one dealing with
it.
Self Belief
Strive to adopt a positive self-belief perspective. It is the

key to get you going. If you don't have confidence in your
ability and determination, you may lose before you even
try your hardest.
You can run into naysayers who feed your negativity.
Try to keep your distance from them and associate with optimistic
individuals.
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Strategies For Getting CHAPTER
More TWO
Interview Calls
Now that you're in the correct frame of mind to conduct a

constructive job search, you must develop a winning approach
and get shortlisted. This chapter covers the actions you need
to take to be shortlisted and receive more interview invites.
This chapter consists of 7 parts:

▪ Create a powerful Resume
▪ Use transferable skills
▪ Use Buzzwords
▪ Get certified! Certifications are hats
▪ Built an impressive LinkedIn profile
▪ Bypass the formal process
▪ Do not look desperate
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Create A Powerful Resume
Resumes represent you. It is a crucial first step in getting
noticed and offers a significant return on investment for your
job search. You can't just wing it when it comes to creating an
impressive resume.
Reminders for when creating your resume:
▪ Take the plunge to invest in a resume specialist. Find a specialist who
specializes in building resumes in your industry.
▪ Use outcome-focused statements
Outcome-focused statements in a resume are those where

vague tasks are replaced by statements that show quantitative
accomplishments. By doing this, you can communicate to hiring
managers in terms of measurements and outcomes that they
hear about daily and can relate to.
Example of an outcome-focused statement: Helped increase
24% velocity for my team by assisting them to implement
improved story writing technique.
How to write an outcome-focused statement?

Start with business impact and eventually highlight what you did. Use the
template "VERB BUSINESS IMPACT BY WHAT I DID."
Understanding the use with an example:
Helped increase is the VERB
24% velocity for my team is the Business Impact
By assisting them to implement improved story-writing techniques
describe What I did.
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Use Transferable Skills
Transferable skills are the skills from your prior employment or

experience that you can highlight in accordance with what your
present hiring managers are seeking.
Transferable skills are helpful when your current job role and
responsibilities differ from what is required for the job you are
applying to.
Think back to the various activities you have done in the past,
select the most relevant ones, and tailor them to the position
you are applying for.
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Use Do Not Miss A
Buzzwords Tagline
It’s the age of Artificial Create an impact with taglines.
Intelligence. Based on the most Utilize taglines to make a
suitable keywords for the position statement. Create a tag that best
you’re looking for, AI shortlists your reflects you, just as every brand or
resume from all the applications it business has one.
receives. Today, many businesses are A tagline should ideally appear right at
undergoing agile transitions, and they the top of the resume.
frequently screen candidates For instance, you might have a
based on buzzwords associated with resume that begins, "ABC Agile
that industry. Coach," emphasize your
certifications, and then, in italics,
say, "Helping teams achieve more
than they ever thought."
It helps
you convey something substantial
about yourself directly to the hiring
Highlight the buzzwords in the outcome-
managers.
focused statements you use on your
resume.
Examples of buzzwords you can
consider using:
▪ High performing teams
▪ Facilitation because we're looking
for people that can facilitate events,
▪ Conflict Management,
▪ Schedule management or managing
schedules
▪ Test Automation
▪ Continuous Integration,
▪ Continuous deployment
▪ Kanban
▪ Whip limits 9
Build An Impressive LinkedIn
Profile
On LinkedIn, hiring managers search for potential
candidates.
And the best thing about LinkedIn accounts is that you
display
the information you want others to view.
You've got control over it. So, pay attention to the details
when creating your profile. Your education, credentials, and
work history will help you create a successful LinkedIn
profile.
Things to keep in mind :
• A good headshot
• A good banner at the top
• Your tagline in that banner
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Bypass The Formal Process
What does it mean to circumvent the formal process? It's like

entering the interview room from the back door. Going through
the traditional hiring procedure may not always get you the
results you desire due to a lack of appropriate experience and
an abundance of applications. In these scenarios responding to
a job posting by email and contacting the HR department might
accomplish the goal.
"Quick Question" might be a good subject line. In the email's

body, you can write, "Hey HR team, I was wondering if you
could connect me to the hiring manager for this particular
job. I have a few quick questions to clarify before I apply for
the position". Also, share your LinkedIn link.
You can also get in touch with LinkedIn's hiring managers. Add
them on LinkedIn, send them messages, and briefly state
something like, "I noticed that you're looking for this specific
position. I want to be sure we will be a great fit; therefore, I
have a few questions before applying.”
If you hear back from any of the recruiting managers, you have
an opportunity for a direct line of communication which might
create a chance to enter the interview room through the back
door.
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Do Not Look Desperate
What does it mean to circumvent the formal process? It's like

entering the interview room from the back door. Going through
the traditional hiring procedure may not always get you the
results you desire due to a lack of appropriate experience and
an abundance of applications. In these scenarios responding to
a job posting by email and contacting the HR department might
accomplish the goal.
"Quick Question" might be a good subject line. In the email's

body, you can write, "Hey HR team, I was wondering if you
could connect me to the hiring manager for this particular
job. I have a few quick questions to clarify before I apply for
the position". Also, share your LinkedIn link.
You can also get in touch with LinkedIn's hiring managers.
Add them on LinkedIn, send them messages, and briefly state

something like, "I noticed that you're looking for this specific
position. I want to be sure we will be a great fit; therefore, I
have a few questions before applying.”
If you hear back from any of the recruiting managers, you have
an opportunity for a direct line of communication which might
create a chance to enter the interview room through the back
door.
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Keep Applying
As we previously stated, you must put in some early

work to generate enough leads for you to eventually be
able to land your dream job.
With more applications; you'll have more opportunities

that will enable you to converse freely and unhurriedly.
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How to “Kill It” In
CHAPTER
The Interview
THREE
We have the necessary mindset, and we are aware of the

strategies for how to be selected for the interviews. Now it's
time to smash the interview, because that is when you
ultimately close the deal. This chapter covers the approach you
should apply for getting the offer letter and landing your dream
job.
It consists of 3 parts:
▪ Ensure that the Mastery reflects
▪ Communicate the WHY
▪ How to address interview questions?
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Ensure That The Mastery
Reflects
The interview room eventually highlights the mastery. The
mastery we discussed in the first chapter. For the majority of
candidates, experience-driven mastery can be challenging and
takes time because it requires experience.
But acquiring textbook mastery depends on your efforts and

doesn't take long. And the primary factor in getting hired
over to other candidates is this Mastery.
Communicate The WHY

Most applicants concentrate on the what and the how in their
pitches throughout the interview process. What they have
done in their prior employment, how they have done it, and
what they can accomplish for the business they are applying
to.
Yes, that is essential, but even more important is to express
the reasons behind your choice for the position. The why of
your application. Communicating the reason shows the
interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the work.
People without relevant experience or a professional gap
should pay particular attention to this.
The chances of landing the position are quite good regardless
of any downside if your motivation for applying is precise and
connects with the hiring manager.
15
How To Address Interview
Questions?
Would you agree that it's very easy to ramble during a stressful
interview? If so, this template will help you stay focused and
concise.
CAR - Context Action Result
Understanding the use with a scenario
Interviewer - Can you give us an example of a situation where
you implemented changes in a team or in an organization?
Practice the answer using the CAR template
Context - Yes of course this was from 2019 and the network
engineering company that I was working in was implementing
agile in their fiber optics process and I was a team lead for the
Atlanta team.
Action - As a team lead for the Atlanta team I used ad car
approaches and quarters eight step change management
approaches to implement that new way of working coaching
individuals through that change, dealing with resistance.
Result - And as a result we were able to successfully

Implement that change resulting in three million dollars in
reduced fiber optics expenses for the business.
Make sure to quantify the results. Use phrases like improved

velocity improved Employee Engagement improved time
market for our product
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Keep Calm And Crack Your
Interview Like A Pro!
1. Do your research well
To ensure a productive interview,
thoroughly research the company and the
role before the meeting. If you have more
information, you could feel more at ease
explaining the position and how you can
support the team. Visit their website and
look at their products and services, their
social media platforms, and about pages.
2. Prepare for the most
common questions
Even if it’s unlikely to predict exactly what

questions will be asked, it’s crucial to be
ready for the most common and expected
interview questions.
3. Dress Smart and maintain

body language
First impressions last, so present yourself well.

By dressing appropriately, you Convey to the
interviewer that you are concerned about the
job. Hiring managers pay attention to your
spoken responses but also look at how you
present them. Avoid appearing restless or
sitting with your arms or legs crossed. These
nonverbal cues influence how people perceive
you.
4. Dress Smart and maintain

body language
First impressions last, so present yourself well.

By dressing appropriately, you Convey to the
interviewer that you are concerned about the
job. Hiring managers pay attention to your
spoken responses but also look at how you
present them. Avoid appearing restless or
you.
17
5. RELAX!
When you are at ease and confident, interviews
appear more like conversations. Practice your
responses to feel secure and confident. Sleep properly
the night before and have a healthy breakfast. To
relax before the interview, try doing some breathing
techniques and meditation.
6. Be on time
This is one of the most basic yet essential
advice pieces that is often overlooked. The
idea is to make a good impression on the
interviewer by being on time, whether it's
an in-person or online interview. If the
interview is in person, try getting there 20
minutes early.
7. Smile and greet your interviewer

First impressions last, so present yourself well. 8. Have an answer prepared for
By dressing appropriately, you Convey to the the "Tell me about yourself"
interviewer that you are concerned about the Effectively responding to the first
job. Hiring managers pay attention to your question, typically about
spoken responses but also look at how you yourself, gives you confidence for
present them. Avoid appearing restless or the rest of the interview.
you. 9. Align your skills and
experience to the job description
Before the interview, carefully review
the job description so you can
explain why your qualifications are a
good fit for the position.
Give examples of successful tasks
from your prior work that align with
the job description. Those examples
will serve as evidence to prove your
claims and that you are the ideal
candidate.
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10. Listen patiently
Be patient and listen when the interviewer speaks.
When you interrupt, the flow of the conversation gets
disturbed. Also, your interviewer might have a
negative impression of you not being an active
listener. Wait until they finish speaking before asking if
you need anything clarified or have a question. If you
interrupt them accidentally, apologize and allow them
to complete their point.
11. Prepare an answer for your strengths

Your areas of strength reveal a lot about your
candidature. Your interviewer checks to see if you
know your abilities and if they are appropriate for
the position. Be honest while mentioning your
strengths and how they relate to the job. Back up
what you say as your strength with proof.
For example, "One of my strongest professional
traits, in my opinion, is my ability to collaborate
well with the team. In my previous role as a
Scrum Master, I was able to…………………. I can use
this trait in your company and help foster a
supportive, cooperative work atmosphere."
12. Prepare an answer for your

weaknesses
Before the interview, carefully review the job
description so you can explain why your
qualifications are a good fit for the position.
Give examples of successful tasks from your prior
work that align with the job description. Those
examples will serve as evidence to prove your
claims and that you are the ideal
candidate.
13. Ask thoughtful questions

Come to the interview with intelligent questions for the
interviewer that demonstrate your
knowledge of the company and your serious intent.
Interviewers always ask if you have any questions; no
matter
what, you should have one or two ready. Example -
Would I
undergo any training if I get selected for the
position?
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14. Be spontaneous and genuine
Genuine and unscripted responses are more
conversational. Practice your responses to interview
questions and rehearse the main points you want
to make but do not memorize the answers. They wind
up sounding strange and mechanical.
15. End on a positive note

Regardless of how well the rest of the interview
goes, it's essential to finish well and give the
interviewer the sense that you're a competent,
passionate applicant. Thank the interviewer for
their time and ask when you can expect to hear
back. This communicates your eagerness regarding
the interview and the job.
16. Follow-up
Most interviewers anticipate receiving a thank
you note from candidates after the interview. It
makes a good impression and keeps your name
in the interviewer’s mind.
So, send a thank-you note, but try not to
overwhelm them with too many. Await their
response for the next steps.
Remember that you might not always get a
response.
20
Here’s The List Of
Expected Interview
Questions!
21
CONGRATULATIONS!!
On Completing Your
Workshop.
We Wish You All The

Best For Your Future
Endeavors.

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YOUR NAME Company

▪ Chapter One : Mindsets for successful job search in current

In order to aid your understanding and enable you to use the

Job searching is a tedious process. At times, it can

It's possible to equate the job search process to a sales

The quality of the product is important, but

It's just one opportunity you got to grab. Exhibit your

Develop a mastery mindset and a desire to learn the

Understanding with an example:

One job, hundred applicants. The game is real, and so

Develop a mindset where you prioritize the slight

▪ Consider choosing certifications that are less likely to be

Understanding with an example:

Switching careers is popular these days. It's also common

The likelihood that you will wind up lacking confidence and

Strive to adopt a positive self-belief perspective. It is the

Now that you're in the correct frame of mind to conduct a

This chapter consists of 7 parts:

Outcome-focused statements in a resume are those where

How to write an outcome-focused statement?

Transferable skills are the skills from your prior employment or

What does it mean to circumvent the formal process? It's like

"Quick Question" might be a good subject line. In the email's

What does it mean to circumvent the formal process? It's like

"Quick Question" might be a good subject line. In the email's

Add them on LinkedIn, send them messages, and briefly state

As we previously stated, you must put in some early

With more applications; you'll have more opportunities

We have the necessary mindset, and we are aware of the

But acquiring textbook mastery depends on your efforts and

Communicate The WHY

Result - And as a result we were able to successfully

Make sure to quantify the results. Use phrases like improved

Even if it’s unlikely to predict exactly what

3. Dress Smart and maintain

First impressions last, so present yourself well.

4. Dress Smart and maintain

First impressions last, so present yourself well.

7. Smile and greet your interviewer

11. Prepare an answer for your strengths

12. Prepare an answer for your

13. Ask thoughtful questions

15. End on a positive note

We Wish You All The

©2023 Skillbook Academy. All Rights Reserved.

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