New York - opportunities, transparent communication, clear positioning of the personal brand

Introduce yourself in a few sentences. What does your work as daily commitments consist of?
My name is Daniela Aneva. I am an organizational consultant and certified coach, with my main focus on working with leaders and teams to improve organizational effectiveness and create a happy and sustainable work culture. I work both individually with managers and leaders, as well as on a systemic level with organizations, supporting them in transformation processes, developing leadership potential, and fostering a culture of high trust. In my daily life, I facilitate coaching sessions, conduct training, develop leadership programs, and consult companies on strategic initiatives.

In which country and city are you currently living and how did you end up there?
I currently live in New York, USA. I ended up here due to the opportunities for professional development in the field of organizational consulting and coaching, as well as due to the global reach of my clients. From New York, I coordinate international projects in Europe, the USA, and Asia.

What were the biggest challenges you faced at the beginning of your stay?
The biggest challenge was cultural adaptation – even when you speak the language, the feeling of difference in approaches, values, and communication is strongly perceptible. It took time to build a network of professional contacts and to find “my” place in the market.

How did you overcome the language barrier (if there was one)?
I did not have a language barrier in the classical sense – I have been fluent in English since my high school years. But the business language and nuances in cultural communication required attention, practice, and adaptation, especially in corporate and cross-cultural environments.

What resources or networks (local communities, colleagues, organizations) helped you adapt?
Professional networks like the International Coach Federation (ICF), LinkedIn communities, and the Bulgarian diaspora in New York helped me immensely. Participation in global training and conferences also gave me the opportunity to establish myself and adapt quickly to the new context.

What are the main differences between the work culture in your current country and that in Bulgaria?
The work culture in the USA is strongly results-oriented, effective, and individual responsibility. People are more likely to take risks, speak openly, and set clear boundaries. In Bulgaria, there is greater collectivism, but also more concealed expression of disagreement. The ability to navigate these cultural differences is key.

What values and practices in the workplace impressed you the most?
I particularly value respect for personal space and boundaries, as well as a culture of recognition and support. It is impressive how people in the USA know how to give positive feedback and celebrate successes. Transparency in communication is also important and valuable.

Have there been situations where cultural differences have challenged you?
Yes, especially at the beginning. For example, in Bulgarian culture, it is accepted to show greater empathy through concern, while in the USA, direct communication and professional distance are at the forefront. Sometimes I have interpreted brevity as a lack of interest, while in fact, it is part of the style of interaction.

How does finding a job differ in your current country compared to your homeland?
In the USA, the process is very structured and results-oriented – everything starts with clear positioning of the personal brand, strong presence on LinkedIn, and a professional resume. In Bulgaria, recommendations and a network of personal contacts often matter, while here, there is more emphasis on demonstrable competencies and results.

Did you have to go through any additional qualification courses?
Yes – I went through numerous international certification programs, including for coaching, facilitating groups, and organizational development. Continuous learning is an integral part of my profession.

Have you encountered prejudices or obstacles due to your foreign origin?
Not directly, but I have felt momentary doubts from some clients regarding whether I would understand the cultural context. Over time, through results and my work, these barriers diminish. Professionalism prevails.

What would you advise people who want to take a similar step?
To believe in themselves, but also to prepare – professionally, emotionally, and culturally. It is important to build a network, to know clearly what they offer, and to be ready to learn continuously. The international path is filled with challenges, but also with enormous opportunities.

If you could go back, would you choose the same path?
Yes, definitely. Every step, even the difficult ones, has taught me something important and has brought me closer to who I am today. My path is colorful, multi-layered, and meaningful.

What do you miss most from your homeland in professional and personal terms?
I miss spontaneous meetings with colleagues and friends, the feeling of closeness and authenticity in communication, as well as Bulgarian creativity combined with resilience in difficulties. On a personal level – nature, the language, warm human relationships.

Have you considered returning and under what conditions would you do so?
Yes, I do not rule out this possibility. I would return for a clearly defined cause or project that combines my global experience with local reality and can contribute to systemic positive change.I am still actively working with Bulgaria, so the connection is not broken.

What do you think about money? What is its 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 tool – not a goal. They provide freedom, but do not guarantee happiness. In my life, I seek balance – between financial stability, meaningful work, and inner satisfaction. My advice: invest in yourself, in knowledge, and in the people around you – this is the most sustainable “currency”.