Svetlana Tomova has been with CLIQ for seven years, bringing her curiosity and passion for growth to the team. With a diverse background in among other graphic design, she not only thrives in her own career but also enjoys supporting her colleagues and helping them reach their goals. Balancing work with life as a mother of twins, Svetlana sees success as a process of constantly learning and getting better.

Let’s take a closer look at what drives her and her personal and professional life.

Hi Svetlana! What did you want to become as a kid?

I don’t remember anymore as I have always been interested in many different things. I’m too curious to focus on one particular thing and life is too interesting. This has transitioned into my career as well as I have a multi-faced background and constantly seek development and action.

What is your biggest strength and what is your biggest weakness?

I’m a person who seeks to make things better, as often I get irritated if something isn’t quite good enough. However, my pitfall can be in my communication. Although often to the point and clear, I found out during my leadership training that I tend to not discuss my emotions. I have been improving on that front, but as an Eastern European, it’s never easy to openly discuss emotions and how they affect my work relationships.

What does a regular workday look like for you?

Typically, I start my workday by hitting the gym for some strength training. Getting my energy out at the beginning of the day has helped me a lot in managing my concentration. Once I’m in the office, I catch up with the team and help them out with any topics that they have (personal and/or work-related). What follows are both managerial and operational tasks and meetings on my to-do list.

Currently, I’m also a change agent and I have dedicated my time in the afternoons to reviewing and assisting my colleagues in creating their OGSMs. I really enjoy that part, because it helps me understand better their roles within the company and their work.

What was the biggest challenge you have overcome so far?

In my life challenges have always been related to big changes. Change can be scary, but at the same time thrilling. I’ve learned to look forward to these moments because they’re opportunities to learn and grow.

There is one challenge, that I don’t think I will per se overcome, as the rules of the game keep changing throughout the years, but that I will keep growing into as a person and a leader – that’s when I became the mother of wonderful twins – a boy and girl. Being supported by family, friends, and colleagues has helped me find a good balance in my “new side career”.

How do you define success?

For me, success is the process of bettering oneself. No matter what goal you pursue, as long as you work hard, produce great work, and become a better person, you will succeed. Consistently exceeding expectations in areas within our control keeps us motivated, and ultimately we do our best work.

What is the best advice you could give someone about project management?

Exploring different career paths can seem like a difficult decision, but it is the place which can lead to true growth. Looking back, I realise that having a more general outlook has been more beneficial for me, instead of focusing on gradually improving the positions I’m in.

When was the last time you changed your mind about something important?

I often change my mind, even though I can sometimes come across as rigid. If I’m presented with a well-backed and explained reasoning, I can accept it.

What’s your personal favourite content at the moment?

Games! Especially League of Legends Arcane. I can’t wait for the second season next month! And Linkin Park’s newest singles.