Build relationships, not just skills

Introduce yourself in a few sentences..

My name is Marin Aganderov and I am a managing partner at Talentmedia Bulgaria – the largest influencer marketing agency in the country and a certified network of YouTube channels (MCN). I am engaged in digital marketing, branding, and communications, believing in the power of content to inspire and connect people.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

As a child, I dreamed of becoming an astronomer and exploring the Cosmos – its vastness and mystery have always fascinated me. However, in my teenage years, I discovered the magic of advertising and gradually realized that this is the field in which I want to develop professionally.

At what age did you earn your first money? Share with us some curious incident?

I earned my first money at the age of 16 during the summer vacation. I worked at a Coca-Cola factory, where I did everything – from cleaning bottles to unloading trucks. I would get up at 5:00 in the morning to ride my bike to the factory. This experience showed me the value of money and gave me a strong start towards independence. 

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 in this stage of our human development?

I believe that the environment has the strongest influence on us – family, friends, teachers, the books we read. In my childhood, encyclopedias and popular science books played a significant role in awakening my imagination. Curiosity is cultivated when there are people around you who ask questions, tell stories, and inspire you to think critically.

Has there been any significant change in your perceptions in more mature age about what motivates you to do or not do something?

Over time, I realized that my motivation changes – from the desire to prove myself to the desire to create value and contribute to the success of the team and the community around me. In more mature age, I now seek meaning, not just results.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was this decision correct, looking back today?

It was my decision. I chose communications and advertising, guided by my inner feeling that this is my direction. Looking back, I firmly believe that it was the right choice – it gave me the foundation for the career I am building today.

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

I am interested in marketing, technology, media, and human behavior. I love reading fiction – a huge fan of fantasy authors, from classics like Isaac Asimov and Tolkien to contemporary ones like Joe Abercrombie,   as well as traveling – encounters with different cultures are the best inspiration. I have visited over 45 countries and I can say that it has brought me an incredible amount. 

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

I would not change the field – influencer marketing and communications give me the feeling that I am in the right place at the right time. If one day I change my profession, it would be towards education or social entrepreneurship.

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?

That I am honest, open, I work with desire and put my heart into everything I do. That I can be a trusted partner and a person with whom it is easy and understanding to work.

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?

I try to find balance – between work, personal time, and time for family. Physical activity, healthy food, and quality sleep are my priorities. But most importantly – not to hold onto negative emotions and to surround myself with positive, inspiring people.

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

The key is in listening. When you listen with attention and empathy, you begin to understand the person across from you. Everyone has their own point of view, their own needs. Learning to respect that without losing your authenticity – this is an art that is learned every day.

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?

Money is a means, not an end. They provide freedom, but do not give meaning. The sooner a person realizes that satisfaction comes from the process, and not from the amount in the bank account, the more peaceful and successful they will be. My rule is: earn them ethically, spend them wisely, and invest in things that create value.

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

Build relationships, not just skills. Be persistent, be curious, and do not be afraid of failures – they are the best teachers. And don't forget – long-term success is a marathon, not a sprint.