In the Netherlands, you have to be careful with the remarks that are normal in Bulgaria

Introduce yourself in a few sentences. What does your work as daily commitments consist of?

My name is Stefan Panayotov and I am IT Program Manager at HEINEKEN. At this moment, I am managing 3 projects in the field of Digital Integrations. My day consists of organizing the work of 3 teams, planning resources, and managing communication with internal clients.

In which country and city are you currently living and how did you end up there?

I currently live in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Working for a large international company gave me the opportunity for an 'internal relocation' to the headquarters in Amsterdam.

What were the biggest challenges you faced at the beginning of your stay?

Encountering different cultures from around the world is a challenge. You never know which joke or remark will be accepted by different colleagues.

How did you overcome the language barrier (if there was one)?

The vast majority of residents in the Netherlands speak English, and communication is not a big problem. The more unpleasant feeling is when you are in a meeting with several colleagues and everyone is Dutch. They have to speak in a foreign language for them.

What resources or networks (local communities, colleagues, organizations) helped you adapt?

Aside from the company, which was responsible for relocating the family, we handled the other tasks ourselves.

What are the main differences between the work culture in your current country and that in Bulgaria?

I would say that it is the rush. I have the feeling that in Bulgaria we operate on the principle of 'Let's start, and we'll see what needs to be done'. In the Netherlands, a plan is made first about what will be done, what will not be done. And only then does it start.

What values and practices in the workplace impressed you the most?

The so-called 'work-live balance“ impressed me the most. Of course, work is very important, but personal life is the most important.

Have there been situations where cultural differences have made it difficult for you?

I have not had difficulties. Rather, I have suppressed some statements, as they might offend someone. In Bulgaria, we have remarks that we consider normal, but abroad they can be perceived as racist, for example.

How does finding a job differ in your current country compared to your homeland?

I have not looked for a job in abroad. Looking at my family, the job search is very transparent with possibilities for all kinds of arrangements. Including the so-called zero-hour contract, which allows you to work for several companies when they need you.

Did you have to go through any additional qualification courses?

In my case, no. I had an 'internal' relocation within the company and had only one interview. But I had already built a name, which helped me in the selection.  

Have you encountered prejudices or obstacles because of your foreign origin?

The Netherlands is a country where people are very open to foreigners. There may be some prejudices, but they try to keep it unnoticed.

What would you advise people who want to take a similar step?

My advice is to present yourself as you are. This is a long-term partnership.

If you could go back, would you choose the same path?

Yes, I would do it the same way. I follow the principle that once I have done something, it means it was the most correct decision.

What do you miss most from your homeland in professional and personal terms?

In professional terms, I do not miss anything. In personal terms, the warm attitude of people/friends in Bulgaria is irreplaceable.

Have you considered returning and under what conditions would you do it?

In any case, my family has not given up everything, and at some point, we foresee returning to Bulgaria.

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?

In my opinion, this is a very individual question. If I can afford the normal life needs, as well as a few vacations, then I have achieved what I want.