Sometimes it's time to change our perspective

Introduce yourself in a few words..

I am Petya Yovcheva – business consultant, founder and manager of the recruitment agency Skill Force. In my personal world, I am the mother of the talented Yoana, in love with life and with a man who supports, inspires, and gives me wings. An optimist by nature, I love to discover new horizons and believe in the power of goodness and human connections.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

For more than ten years, I worked in companies at various stages of their development – from startup projects to established organizations, going through rapid growth and two sales. For most of this journey, I held managerial roles that taught me to think strategically, to build, manage, and inspire teams. An important stage in my development was the Executive MBA program at the American University – it not only gave me valuable knowledge and a theoretical framework but also the confidence to start my own business, which I lead today.

In short, my career is a journey of learning, growth, loyalty to values, and a shared journey with mentors and friends who have left a lasting mark on my life.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path?

To be brave and listen to my intuition by saying “Yes” and starting work at the alternative telecom “Orbitel,” where I learned so much! There I formed professionally, there I established the leading values for me – honesty towards clients and partners, loyalty, the desire to always exceed expectations. I believe I carry this as potential from my family, but certainly, in this first work environment, my entrepreneurial spirit and leadership developed.

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

By listening to yourself and not being afraid to make mistakes. When you are calm, confident, think positively, when you are not afraid to ask, to seek advice – everything works in your favor, and this way you find the answers and the right path to the profession that suits you – the one where you can express your authenticity and “superpower.”

Which skills will be key in the next 10 years?

Emotional intelligence, which everyone talks about – this ability to understand yourself and others, to be able to communicate – will continue to be key. Our world is changing more dynamically, and it will be important to be able to learn quickly and adapt to changes. Not least – in this ocean of information, the ability to navigate it and have critical thinking will also be key.

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

By starting from a sincere desire to be helpful. When you help without expecting reciprocity, trust naturally arises, and with it valuable and lasting relationships. Support, offer your time, knowledge, and experience – people remember those who were there for them in important moments.

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

When trust and respect are lacking, and your values are compromised – it’s time to go.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

I would trust my intuition more and part with things that do not bring me meaning more quickly.

How to maintain our motivation in times of stagnation?

By changing our perspective – sometimes stagnation is a time for recharging and reconsideration. It’s important to have small, achievable goals, to surround ourselves with inspiring people, and to return to the “why” with which we started.

How to achieve balance between professional and personal life?

When you are a parent and a partner in life, balance comes more naturally. After all, can a career be truly successful if there is a lack of harmony and joy in your personal life?

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

Today's world gives us the freedom to change not only jobs but also professions. Sometimes this is the answer to our inner need for a new environment and skills, creativity, and different dynamics.

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

Be true to yourself. True success is sustainable only when it is in sync with your values and essence.

What is your definition of a “successful career”?

A successful career is one that brings you joy, meaning, and the opportunity to contribute. It is a path where you grow as a person and a professional while remaining true to yourself. The freedom to act, to apply your approach and style, to discover and develop your talents, to surround yourself with people who share the same values, and to move forward together, to pass on the lessons learned and to know that you have been helpful to someone and have left a positive mark.