Individuals who intend to make a mark in their careers and establish themselves in their respective professions always look out for guidance from professional career mentors. They provide authentic advice to these individuals and assist them to steer through various career challenges. These mentors are veterans who forge the careers of individuals and prepare them to become leaders of tomorrow.  

One such prominent career mentor who is guiding emerging professionals is none other than Masooma Ajaz. She ensures that professionals are well aware of job search strategies, and offers them resume tips, interview guidance, and career advice.  Masooma is a dedicated veteran who intends to make sure that every professional succeeds in their endeavours.  

In an interview with Arab Africa Outlook, Masooma shares about her professional journey, challenges, achievements, and future plans. Following are excerpts from the interview:    

Can you tell us about your professional background and what led you to become a Career Mentor in the UAE? 

I’ve always been passionate about connecting with people and making a positive impact. Living in the UAE, I saw firsthand how many professionals arrive with big dreams but no clear direction. They often lack reliable information about the job market, hiring practices, or how to position themselves—and as a result, many waste precious time, their visas expire, and they return home empty-handed. 

This hit close to home for me. I started helping people informally—offering guidance on CVs, job search strategies, and interview preparation. What began as a small effort turned into a calling. I realized there was a real need for practical, honest support that could save people from unnecessary struggles. That’s what led me to become a Career Mentor in the UAE—so I can help others make informed decisions, stay motivated, and secure the opportunities they came here to find. 

How would you define your mission as a career mentor in today’s evolving job landscape? 

My mission as a career mentor is to empower individuals with the clarity, confidence, and practical tools they need to navigate today’s fast-changing job market. In an era where technology, remote work, and global competition are reshaping career paths, I aim to be a reliable guide—especially for those new to the UAE or struggling to find their place. 

I’m committed to helping professionals avoid wasted time, missed opportunities, and avoidable setbacks by providing honest advice, tailored strategies, and market-relevant insights. My focus is not just on landing a job, but on building a sustainable, fulfilling career. I believe in turning confusion into direction, self-doubt into confidence, and effort into results. 

Ultimately, my mission is to ensure that no one has to face their career journey alone—especially in a new country. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed, and I’m here to help them make it happen. 

What are some of the most common career challenges you see among professionals and students today? 

One of the most common challenges I see—both among professionals and students—is a lack of clarity. Many are unsure about what direction to take, what roles suit their strengths, or how to align their passion with market demand. This often leads to confusion, poor decision-making, or settling for roles that don’t offer long-term growth. 

Another major issue is limited job market awareness—especially among those entering new regions like the UAE. Many don’t fully understand how recruitment works here, what employers are really looking for, or how to position themselves competitively. 

Personal branding and communication are also big gaps. Having the right skills isn’t enough if you can’t present them well—whether on a CV, LinkedIn, or in an interview. 

Lastly, I see a lot of self-doubt and fear of failure, especially after facing rejection. That’s why I focus on building not just strategy, but also mindset and confidence. 

Could you share a mentoring experience or success story that has left a lasting impact on you? 

One story that has truly stayed with me is of a young woman I mentored who was a professional banker. She had recently arrived in Dubai, desperately looking for a job—not just to grow her career, but to be able to stay with her husband here. I remember her saying, “I just want a job, even if it pays 2,000 AED. I just don’t want to go back.” 

She had tried everything on her own but wasn’t seeing results. I told her, “Trust the process—just follow what I’m guiding you to do.” We worked together on her CV, LinkedIn, interview prep, and job strategy. She followed everything with full dedication. 

A few weeks later, she landed a role at a very reputed bank with a salary of 8,000 AED. I still remember her words and the relief and joy in her voice. Moments like that remind me why I do what I do. 

How do you tailor your mentoring approach to suit individuals from different cultural and professional backgrounds? 

While I’ve had the privilege of mentoring individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, I’ve found that the core objective is often the same—to find the right job, build a meaningful career, and feel confident in the process. Because of that, my overall approach remains consistent: provide clarity, strategy, and encouragement. 

What changes slightly is how I adapt to different industries or fields—whether it’s banking, IT, marketing, or healthcare. I tailor my guidance based on the specific market trends, role requirements, and expectations within that field. 

Culturally, I maintain a respectful and open mindset, understanding that communication styles, professional norms, and personal values can differ. But the foundation remains the same: active listening, practical steps, and genuine support. 

No matter where someone comes from or what background they have, my goal is to make them feel heard, understood, and empowered to succeed in today’s competitive job market. 

How do you see the UAE’s career and employment landscape evolving in the next five years? 

Over the next five years, the UAE’s employment landscape will be shaped by rapid digital transformation and economic diversification. Sectors like technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and finance are set to experience significant growth, driven by initiatives such as the National AI Strategy 2031 and the “Net Zero by 2050” commitment. Simultaneously, the rise of remote work and the gig economy will redefine traditional employment models. To stay competitive, professionals will need to embrace continuous learning and adaptability, aligning with the country’s vision to foster innovation and sustainability. 

What advice would you give to international professionals aiming to build a career in the UAE? 

My biggest advice is: come prepared, not just hopeful. The UAE offers incredible opportunities, but the job market is fast-paced and highly competitive. Before arriving, research your industry, understand how hiring works here, and tailor your CV and LinkedIn to local standards. 

Networking is essential—attend events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and don’t hesitate to reach out. Be open to learning, stay adaptable, and remain professional at every step. 

Finally, be patient but proactive. With the right strategy and mindset, international professionals can absolutely thrive in the UAE—just don’t leave your career to chance. Plan, act, and stay consistent. 

Are there particular industries or skills that you believe will be in high demand in the UAE market? 

Yes, the UAE is rapidly evolving, and several industries are showing strong growth. Technology and digital transformation are leading the way—skills in AI, data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development are in high demand. 

Healthcare continues to expand, especially with the country’s focus on world-class medical infrastructure. Sustainability and renewable energy are also rising priorities, creating demand in environmental sciences and green technologies. 

In parallel, finance, logistics, e-commerce, and tourism remain key pillars of the economy. 

Soft skills like adaptability, communication, and leadership are equally critical, especially as organizations seek agile, globally minded professionals to drive innovation and growth. 

What values or principles guide your approach to mentoring and professional development? 

My approach to mentoring is guided by integrity, empowerment, and personal growth. I believe in being honest and transparent, providing constructive feedback while maintaining a positive and supportive environment. Empowerment is at the heart of my approach—my goal is to help individuals take ownership of their career paths, make informed decisions, and build confidence. 

I also emphasize the importance of continuous learning. The professional world is constantly evolving, so I encourage adaptability and a growth mindset. Lastly, I value respect for individuality—each person’s journey is unique, and I tailor my advice to suit their strengths, goals, and aspirations. 

These principles help ensure that the mentoring experience is not just about immediate job placement, but about fostering long-term success and fulfillment. 

How do you stay updated with global trends in career development, coaching, and recruitment? 

I make it a priority to stay current by continuously engaging with industry resources. I follow leading blogs, podcasts, and publications like Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and SHRM to keep up with trends in career development, coaching, and recruitment. 

I also attend webinars, conferences, and networking events—both in person and virtually—to connect with other professionals and gain insights into evolving best practices. Additionally, I leverage platforms like LinkedIn Learning  that deepen my knowledge in emerging fields like AI-driven recruitment and career coaching methodologies. 

What role do you believe emotional intelligence and soft skills plahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LinkedIn_Learningy in long-term career success? 

Emotional intelligence and soft skills are absolutely critical for long-term career success. While technical expertise is important, It helps individuals navigate complex workplace dynamics, build strong relationships, and effectively manage stress and conflict. Professionals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to collaborate, lead teams, and communicate clearly—skills that are essential in today’s fast-paced and diverse work environments. 

Soft skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and time management are also key to thriving in any role. They allow individuals to handle setbacks, embrace change, and consistently perform at their best. In the long run, it’s often these interpersonal and self-management skills that differentiate top performers from their peers and drive career growth, making emotional intelligence and soft skills as vital as technical knowledge for sustained success. 

What legacy do you hope to build through your mentoring work? 

Through my mentoring, I hope to build a legacy of empowerment and sustained growth. My goal is to inspire individuals to take control of their careers, make informed decisions, and build the confidence needed to navigate challenges. I want to leave a lasting impact where my mentees not only achieve professional success but also gain the tools and mindset to continue thriving independently. 

I aim to create a ripple effect—helping people unlock their potential so they can mentor others, fostering a culture of support, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Ultimately, I hope my legacy is one of empowered individuals who confidently take charge of their career paths, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and pay forward the guidance and support they received.

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