I was recently asked: "Beyond information, how are you not stressed by aggressive people and how are you not intimidated by those who try to make you feel inferior?" I said — from life. But I realized I also learned from PEOPLE!
First of all, I learned from the people who were my bosses — and also mentors. As a sign of gratitude, but also because I want them to know I often think about them, that sometimes I wonder: how would they have handled this?
Costea Dumitrescu, who founded Ascendis and who recently passed away. I am sure, however, that he hasn't left the hearts of the many people who knew him. Like your first love, you never forget your first boss — especially if he was also your role model and mentor, and made you feel valuable when you didn't yet know who you were.
Daniela Catanas, also at Ascendis, who taught me how important image is in business. But above all, she gave me the confidence that I could succeed even when I was sure I couldn't.
Valeriu Nistor, who took me to the "next level." He taught me what consultative selling means and how to put my know-how to work. He sent me to Vienna and proved to me that we Romanians can be just as good as they are. Valeriu remained a mentor and a support, standing by me with advice in two difficult moments.
Cristian Gheorghe, BIA HR, who had the openness and courage to hire me when I was pregnant and restored my faith in people.
Mariana Vaida, BIA HR, from whom I learned how to create an office environment as warm as home. She defended us in front of clients even when we made mistakes. I learned my first leadership lesson from Mariana. And Dragoș Rosca, who taught me that in order to be confident, you need to be well prepared.
Marga Radu, who brought me to the Adecco team with the message: "Happy with your new decision, or coming to us?" How do you say "No"? From Marga I learned it is possible. Anything! That I can do anything! Adecco also brought me two extraordinary friends.
All these people exposed me and trusted me. Through them I built my image, my connections — but above all, my know-how. Large companies first opened their doors thanks to them, and later to me. Besides them, I want to mention two other people: Iuliana Stan and Adrian Stanciu, Human Synergistics. Their teamwork and dedication were a model for me.
Over time, not all relationships are preserved. Some remain, others fade — perhaps some of the people who had an impact don't even remember you anymore. But the value and gratitude will never be broken. I was lucky! Lucky with people who built business in Romania and impacted both people and organizations.
In closing, I'm glad I wrote this, and I hope it brings you joy too!
With gratitude, For some, Alina Mărgărint, For others, Alina Conu
