The accumulation of knowledge raises mountains

Introduce yourself in a few sentences.

My name is Maria Sinigerova and for 8 years I have been directly engaged with the global brand Samsung as a marketing manager at Samsung Electronics Bulgaria. Over the years, I have been part of the positioning and growth of brands like Technomarket, Multirama, Neo, and Public.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

I didn't have a specific idea for a future profession. Rather, my desires were influenced by the periods I was going through. Sometimes I wanted to lead a competitive dance school (13 years as a professional competitor), sometimes to be an actress (I was accepted into the first theater class after 8th grade, but I chose economics :) ) or a “modern” HR manager (master's degree in “Human Resources” at UNSS).

At what age did you earn your first money? Share an interesting story with us.

I received my first salary at 15 as an agent for bgmaps, but it required a lot of wandering and convincing future clients. And I received my first tip as a student – a waitress in a café. I was still quite inexperienced when I walked to a table on the street with a full tray, but I couldn't keep my balance and, to avoid spilling on the customers, I poured the entire tray over myself. Well, the result was a triple tip for the self-sacrifice. :)

What are the main factors and examples that shape us as individuals at an early age and form our interests? What is your recipe for curiosity, sources, and wells of information and inspiration at this stage of our human development?

I have always tackled several ideas at once. Even if I didn't know enough, I jumped in headfirst and learned on the go. In my early years, I scattered my energy in different directions without achieving good results anywhere. I didn't finish things, and that didn't help me grow personally and professionally. Later, I realized that I lacked focus and a sense for details. And I started to work on myself every day.

Did any significant difference occur in your perceptions in a more mature age regarding what motivates you to do or not do something?

Motivation has never been lacking for me. I have always been the enthusiast in the group, but in a more mature age, I started to choose my battles. When you know what you want and what you don't – it is easier to make right and healthy decisions.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was that decision correct, viewed from today's perspective?

I was accepted at SU – computer science, and at UNSS – human resources. Neither of the two specialties was my first choice. I chose UNSS as a good continuation of my secondary education at the Economic Technical School. I do not regret my choices – they are part of my growth. And with important decisions, I always follow my sixth sense.

Share more about your interests, knowledge, skills, and hobbies.

I love to dance, and I am good at it. I participated in a coaching program that gave me a very good perspective on things and helped me understand that I can motivate not only myself but also others.

Would you change your profession today and which fields of activity capture your interest?

If I decide to change my profession, it will be to something completely different – motivational programs, working with young people, social programs, professional development, etc.

They say that personal branding is everything that people say about you when you are not in the same room with them. What would you like to hear today?

Hmm, good question. I would be happy to hear that I helped someone understand, choose, be better, and happier. These are the important things in life. A friend once said that if everyone has a calling in life – mine is “muse.” :)

Emotional intelligence, adaptability, and flexibility, as well as our soft skills, are key conditions for success in recent years. How do you cope with the daily challenges of life to stay in good shape and mood?

These are key skills in today's hyperdynamic environment. Change is the most constant thing in our lives – no matter how uncomfortable we may feel with it. I try to manage daily stress without losing focus on the important things for me and my loved ones. “There is nothing fatal, and there is a way out of every situation” – as my 10-year-old daughter says. :) I admit that I don't always succeed, but if you know yourself well and understand the motivation of others – it is easier.

What are the most important conclusions you have made so far about maintaining proper communication considering the different characters of the people you meet daily – colleagues, friends, relatives?

Direct, but with adaptation to the person and the situation. I learned to first put myself in the other person's shoes before judging or making decisions. I do not expect people to react or think like me. Everyone is unique. And to be able to motivate someone, it is important to be open and have good intuition.

What do you think about money? What is their influence on your life? What is your advice to people who often ask themselves questions related to money and how sufficient they are?

I would quote the character Ostap Bender: “I do not love money. I love the things I can buy with them.”

What is the most valuable career advice you would give to people?

I was very inspired by my master's degree (MBA) at AUEB – Athens. I was already actively working for the fifth year, and my education came as a breath of fresh air. I felt like I could raise mountains. I would recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity – but not immediately after university, rather with professional experience.