In a male-dominated industry, Nivedita Jha has defied expectations, shattered glass ceilings, and emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring women in IT. Armed with determination, intellect, and unwavering focus, she has earned her place at the top, proving that gender is no barrier to success. Find out which specific domains of the Salesforce Associate certification she emphasizes learners should prioritize, gain insights into her daily routine as a professional, and uncover invaluable guidance she offers to aspiring individuals seeking a career in Salesforce!
Hi. My name is Nivedita Jha. I'm working as a Product Owner and Instructional Designer with Focus on Force.
How did you get started with Salesforce?
Almost one year back, I interviewed with Focus on Force because I come from an instructional designing background. And I was offered this position. It required me to gain certifications. People interviewed me and said, “Are you ready for Salesforce?” That was the first time I've ever heard of Salesforce. That's how I started my journey with Salesforce.
Keep this thing in your mind: whenever you're feeling low — Just take a break. Probably a 10 minute break. Have tea or coffee. And then you just come back and then see things from a new perspective.
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What were your goals when starting and how did you keep motivated?
When I started, I was pregnant and everything was new for me: I was a new mother with a new job; new role. Everything was new. And I would tell everyone that this is perfectly normal — we as women are doing so many roles not only on the professional front, but also on the personal front. So it's absolutely fine that some days you'll feel that you're feeling low.
Keep this thing in your mind: whenever you're feeling low — Just take a break. Probably a 10 minute break. Have tea or coffee. And then you just come back and then see things from a new perspective.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women working in technology?
The society has this traditional mindset that it's a man’s world. That's what they think. But nowadays, as I can see around myself, things are changing. There are many women who are coming into Tech — who are pursuing Tech courses. Five years from now, you will see that there will be many women in Tech.
Which areas of the Salesforce Associate certification should learners focus on?
Reports and Dashboards. It's not that it is difficult, but it's something that you're going to use a lot when you're working for a company. That's one thing that you're going to use a lot. And it's not only about the certification. The certification you might get, but you should learn it. So that’s one area I'll suggest everyone to keep focus on.
What does a typical working day for you look like?
I'll be honest. My day usually starts when my baby wakes up. So whenever he wakes up — whether it's 4 am, 5 am or 7 am, that's when I wake up. I am in India, so usually my day starts at 7:45 am — that's when we start our meetings or kickoff call. Then post that, I have my breakfast and then I log in. And then I start looking at the comments and the feedback that come from all our users. So I just have a look at them, and then I just start working on them. If there are some updates, I'll do those things. This is all.
Would you say that communication skills are essential to a career in Salesforce?
I would say yes, because communication skills are something that comes on the number one position, followed by whatever technical skills that you want to have. You should be confident. You should have good communication skills to communicate your skills. So that is one thing you should remember.
How would you describe Focus on Force to someone who has no idea what it is?
On the internet, there are so many things available and you won't realize what you should read and what you shouldn't. That is one thing that can make you confused and because you're a first timer, there is a high probability that you will actually end up getting confused. To avoid that, you need a very concise material which actually focuses on what are all the things that are going to be asked.
I would recommend going through a study material that gives you an exact idea on all the objectives that will be covered, and then the practice exam questions to make you prepared before you attempt those questions. Instead of going through all the random materials all over the Internet, go for a concise one with Focus on Force.
I would recommend going through a study material that gives you an exact idea on all the objectives that will be covered, and then the practice exam questions to make you prepared before you attempt those questions.
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What advice do you have for those preparing for the Salesforce Associate certification?
So Salesforce Associates, first of all, don't be scared of the exam. It's very basic what you're going to be learning. It's mainly learning about the platform. You're going to know about all of its features; how you're going to use it, all of its uses, all the features, and how you can apply it. That is it. It's nothing advanced. It's nothing very difficult. So don't be scared of it.
Are you preparing for the Salesforce Associate Certification?
Focus on Force provides a study guide and practice exams for the Salesforce Associate credential.
