You have to take risks to have change, but necessarily with a belt in the "deep end"

Introduce yourself in a few words..

My name is Tanya Koseva-Boshova and I am Managing Director at Lion’s Head – an investor in first-class office and logistics buildings; and Managing Partner at Park Lane Developments – a company that develops first-class office buildings and shopping parks.

I am the chair of the board of directors of the Association of Business Building Owners and a member of the board of the Bulgarian Forum of Business Leaders.

I am a graduate of the American University in Bulgaria and have completed courses in real estate management from Harvard Business School, Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford and INSEAD.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

A dynamic career in turbulent pioneering times for the Bulgarian economy. When I started my professional journey in the mid-90s, in the real estate sector everything was new and development was just beginning. Deals, changes, and innovations happened rapidly. For all professionals in this sector, the rule was “Learning on the job”. We learned from each other, sought knowledge from abroad, and relied on our intuition.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path In?

The choice that shaped my professional path was my first job after graduating from the American University in Bulgaria. I accepted an offer from PwC, I had a job and printed business cards, but just before my first working day, I declined. I had received an offer from a small company - Continental Properties. Their office didn't even have air conditioning, just a noisy fan. At that time, I listened to my intuition and accepted the second offer because I really liked the person who interviewed me. I can boldly say that this was the best choice for my career, as not long after, the company became part of Colliers. Every subsequent step in my professional path was guided by this decision and I have no regrets.

What would you like to know at the beginning of your career, but no one told you?

Every first step is difficult and everyone needs guidance. At the beginning of my career, I didn't know that I needed someone with more experience to talk to. When you have someone to discuss an idea, situation, or uncertainty with, things are much easier and more focused. My advice to all young professionals is to find a mentor. Now, after so many years of professional experience, it is a pleasure for me to be in this role as part of the Mentoring Program of the Women's Forum Association.

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

At the beginning of their professional path, no one is fully oriented in which field they want to develop. I was fortunate to start my career in the right place for me, and that shaped my development. The truth is that before you try something, you don't know if you like it and if it's for you. Sometimes the approach of “Trial and Error” is useful, especially when you are young. Personality tests are very helpful in identifying a person's strengths and weaknesses. Such an analysis could reduce potential “mistakes” and provide guidance on what profession to choose.

What skills according to Inwill be key in the next 10 years?

The next, at least, 10 years will be extremely dynamic with the development of AI. Business will start to move at a faster pace than before. The courage to make changes in the new pace will be key to success. The ability of professionals to make quick decisions will play an important role. AI lacks intuition and empathy, and that is why these qualities will be of exceptional importance in the future.

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

Networking events, professional and non-professional, are very suitable for building a network of contacts. Of course, just being present is not enough; you need to know how to communicate. The good news is that at such events, people go exactly with that purpose, which makes the process easier.

People love to talk about themselves and what they do – extract information from that. When you have the opportunity, you should do small favors because later you can ask for help in return. And most importantly – to remain accessible even when you reach a high position. This applies to all people, with whom you communicate, not just the important ones who can help you.

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

The biggest mistake is to believe how well you are doing, then you stop developing and enter a comfort zone. When you get used to what you do and it becomes comfortable, a moment of stagnation comes. It is a mistake to stay in one place; you should always seek development and new skills.

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

It is immediately clear. When you don't have easy communication with your direct supervisor and with colleagues at your level, the environment is not right for you. Open communication is key in such situations. If after a problem has been escalated to a higher level and there is no understanding and changes, you should leave. The office is a place where we spend a third of the day (sometimes even more), and if you don't feel comfortable, it means the place is simply not suitable for you.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

Maybe I would start my own business earlier. The field of real estate is dominated by men, and it is rare for a woman to achieve high results. Although I have always believed in myself, especially at a younger age, there was a dose of doubt about success in such a “male” environment. My experience taught me that you have to take risks to have change. Of course, the risk must be assessed, to jump “into the deep end,” but with a belt.

How to keep our motivation in moments of stagnation?

Change the environment; this is the easiest way to get out of the comfort zone and an opportunity to reflect on the situation. It is important to know what you like and what you don't; a good old list Pros & Cons works wonders.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

One does not interfere with the other. If a person likes what they do and cares about their work, they do not feel this boundary. I have a successful career in a “male” environment and I have a strong family. My children are twins and are already teenagers, and I believe that when they see how dedicated I am to my work, I set a good example for them. Of course, we always find time for family trips and time spent together.

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

When the profession does not bring you satisfaction and on Sunday evening you are unhappy that Monday is coming, it means you are not on your path. Most often, this is the case when you have certain skills but are doing something else. Sometimes it is hard to find the right career for yourself. In such cases, personality tests are extremely useful. Such a test can analyze in which areas you are good and what type of career is good for you.

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

To learn and read a lot. Continuous development is the key to success. This does not necessarily mean just enrolling in various courses. I, for example, often watch movies about business stories, which show different cases in an interesting way. And here I am not just talking about documentaries; there are many useful feature films.

What is Inyour definition of “successful career”?

To like what you do, your colleagues, and to receive the compensation that makes you happy.