Try to put yourself in others' shoes and understand them

Introduce yourself in a few sentences..

My name is Mariela Balcheva and I have been fully dedicated to hospitality for more than two decades. My professional journey began at Hilton Sofia right at the opening of the hotel and took me to various countries and management positions within the international Hilton chain. Since January 2022, I have been part of the team at DoubleTree by Hilton Plovdiv Center, where I lead the commercial teams of one of the most successful hotels in the region.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

As a young person, I dreamed of doing something that combines dynamics, travel, and working with people. I didn't know exactly what my profession would be, but I always felt it would be related to communication, organization, and creating experiences. Hospitality turned out to be the ideal combination of all this.

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

I earned my first money at 19, right at the beginning of my student years. I was accepted at UNSS, and at the same time, Hilton Sofia was being built – the first international hotel in Sofia. One day, just out of curiosity, I walked in and asked if they were hiring staff. That's where it all started. I still remember the thrill of my first interview and the feeling that I was embarking on something big.

What are the main factors that shape us as individuals at an early age? How does curiosity awaken?

The environment in which we grow up, the examples around us, school, and the first life responsibilities shape our personality. Curiosity, in my opinion, is born from the opportunity to observe inspiring people and from the feeling that every piece of knowledge can open a door for us. For me, it was the mentors and leaders I worked with in my early years – they ignited a true hunger for learning and development in me.

Have your perceptions of motivation changed over time?

Definitely. Over the years, we understand that motivation does not come only from external factors like recognition or results. It becomes deeper, connected to inner satisfaction, the desire to leave value, to inspire and support our teams.

Whose decision was it to choose the university and major? Was it the right choice?

The decision was mine. I chose to study at UNSS because I believed that business and economic disciplines would give me a solid foundation. Today, looking back, I think it was the right choice – my knowledge helped me understand the business logic behind hospitality better. And after economics, naturally came the desire for a master's degree in the field of tourism.

Tell us about your interests, skills, and hobbies.

Besides my passion for hospitality, I love traveling – it energizes me, inspires me, and opens new horizons. I am interested in management psychology, brand management, and team building. I enjoy reading about personal development and new trends in marketing and sales.

Would you change your profession today?

I wouldn't change it – I am in the right place. But if I had to choose something else, it would probably be in the field of corporate coaching or talent development – all things related to people and potential.

What would you like people to say about you when you are not in the room?

That I am a person of action who inspires and creates value. That I know how to build trust, unite teams, and lead by example. And that I am a professional who loves what I do.

How do you maintain good condition and mood in a dynamic daily life?

I take care of my inner balance. Sports, travel, time with loved ones, and mental relaxation through new ideas and inspiration. I try to see challenges as opportunities for growth.

How do you maintain effective communication with different people in daily life?

I listen actively and try to approach each person individually. I believe that the most important thing in communication is empathy – the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes and understand the context behind the words.

What do you think about money? What is your advice to people who worry about it?

Money is a tool, not a goal. They provide freedom, but do not define happiness. My advice is not to make their choices driven solely by financial logic – if you love what you do, the results and money will come.

The most valuable career advice you would give?

Build a personal brand – work in a way that your name becomes a symbol of quality and trust. Be patient, genuine, and dedicated. Do not be afraid of difficulties – they are the best teachers.