Interview for Swiss Women Network “SwoNet”

As a child I always dreamed of being like my dad and taking over his business one day. But my dad quickly made it clear that this was his business and he did not plan to retire any time soon. Instead, he said: “Search for your own business. Go to a university, follow your studies and think about a business you would like to create one day.”

At first I was shocked. But in fact, he made me understand that the world is much greater than his business. He gave me a chance to choose and opened up new prospects. As a result, I began to think, move in my own direction, listen to my inner self and wonder what was it that I wanted to create and achieve.

In this way I’ve learned that life is about relying on myself and my own strengths. I’ve chosen my studies based on my own preferences and market relevance. I went to study law and economics in St.Petersburg at the prestigious university where 200 people were competing for a place. There I’ve received an MA in Law and Diploma in Enterprise Management.

Based on the results of my studies, I was given a scholarship to study in Germany, where I deepened my knowledge in business and intercultural communication as well as learned German language, obtaining MA in European Studies.

This provided an excellent basis for my career. I started working in tax and business development. In parallel, I began thinking and subsequently developing my own business (personal brand on social networks). Later on I delved into the topic of self-development and coaching. In 2016 I have formulated my professional focus as Life and Business Coaching.

The knowledge I have gained along the way helps me to continue synthesizing my experience while following my own career path and enjoying it.

1. What fascinates and inspires you about your work?

I work with managers and business owners. It excites me to see happy, shining eyes and to hear words of gratitude because people, whom I help, move up the career ladder, identify growth potential, develop and deepen leadership qualities, rediscover their hidden talents, boost their charisma, increase self-confidence and resilience, overcome fears of public speaking and improve personal relationships. I’ve worked with representatives of Omya, UBS, Nestle, Novartis, Credit Suisse, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Mercedes, GSK, Mobimo, Sberbank and other companies. They begin seeing directions and opportunities that previously seemed inaccessible. And that’s great.

2. How did you see the term career after your education and how do you see career today?

Immediately after the university, career prospects looked very tough. I thought that in order to achieve something I had to plow day and night. But it was an important step and experience that gave support and foundation for my further career development. It helped me to see my talents and skills more clearly and to realize that I could do more. As a result, I have created my own business.

3. What tip can you give to female career starters or founders?

For those who are only at the beginning of their career or business ownership, I would advise to choose the direction which you want to follow but also to try different opportunities and remain open to new adventures. Also, it is important to remember that it is every one of us who determine our own careers. That’s why we shouldn’t approach our career in a linear fashion but to see different perspectives and constantly upgrade our skills in the core areas of interest. Last but not least, we should believe in ourselves and our path.

4. How do you start the day?

I start my day the previous evening when I plan tasks for the next day. I begin my morning with meditation. This is my setting for the day. It gives me energy and resources to handle all the tasks ahead of me.

“All the world’s a stage,

And all the men and women merely players…”

(W. Shakespeare, As You Like It)

We believe that each and every one of us is not only a leading actor but first and foremost a writer of our own destiny. Overwhelmed by life events, we may unintentionally forget that we are the sole playwrights of our own lives. We may even unwittingly drop or lose the thread of our unfolding life story. Then, we start questioning ourselves and let others do the writing for us. Doesn’t this happen to all of us occasionally? The best thing we can do is to resume the leadership as soon as we can: only we should write the play of our life!

With the renewed confidence and new skills, we design new perspectives. Coaching and training are some of the best instruments we use to achieve this goal.