Business is not what it says in the textbooks

Introduce yourself in a few words..

Stefan Yordanov, for about 25 years I have been working in the field of finance and business development. For most of that time in aviation.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

An unconscious path, driven by interest in the work or industry itself. A desire to take on positions with an active attitude towards the actions and activities of businesses. At the beginning, searching for something to start somewhere. Then continuing with something that provides knowledge as energy. Then a place where you are allowed to express yourself, to show what you have learned... Working with more people... More industries, diversity... Responsibilities and persistence.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path?

Not being afraid to make changes and being guided by interest in the essence of the work, rather than other aspects of the positions. Listening more to myself when making the final decision.

What would you like to have known at the beginning of your career that no one told you?

I thought that business is and should be as it is in the textbooks. Then you realize that this is utopia.

How can a person understand which profession is suitable for them?

To try more. Work is like a relationship. Some people succeed from the first attempts. Others are still searching for something.

Which skills will be key in the next 10 years, in your opinion?

AI is entering quite quickly into all aspects of work. Everything that cannot yet be done by AI, will be key.

How to build a network of useful contacts without appearing interested?

As you can. In my case, work relationships and conferences. I started working in the year 2000. Until 2010, networks were based on personal contact. My positions at that time allowed me to have various work contacts. Conferences and events also help. Now there are online platforms. Bulgaria is small. Most people know each other. I'm not sure I understand the element of “interest” correctly. Why not appear interested.

What is the biggest mistake you made in your career, and what did you learn from it?

I thought a lot before answering this question and nothing came to mind. Mistakes are part of the career.

How to recognize a toxic work environment and when is it time to leave?

It cannot be mistaken. Sometimes you are deceived by something or in the name of something, to swallow something else. After a while, you no longer deceive yourself and you leave.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

If I could fast in a different way, I wouldn't be me.

How to keep our motivation in times of stagnation?

Focus on the essence of the work.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

A strongly expressed professional life hides the lack of a fulfilling personal one. And the lack of professionalism hides laziness and idleness. Don't hide both.

When is it time to change our career, not just the job?

I don't know how to answer. I tend to pass this question to AI 😊

If you had to give only one piece of advice to people seeking success, what would it be?

I don't consider myself successful enough to give advice on success. The search for people is like their nature. Some are more focused than others. If you want something, focus on it.  

What is your definition of a “successful career”?

Not to ask yourself – is my career successful 😊