At VSG, we believe that our people are at the heart of our success. We strive to create a supportive and motivating work environment that inspires and develops every team member. Everyone's opinion matters to us, so we recently spoke with four of our colleagues—Ivelin, Radostina, Alexander, and Nina—who shared their impressions and experiences, as well as what motivates them at work.
- Ivelin Arnaudov, Senior Software Developer
- Radostina Goranova, Business Analyst
- Alexander Ovardov, Team Lead, Senior Software Developer
- Nina Mitseva, Senior QA Engineer
1. Since when have you been with the company, and why did you choose to join it?
Ivelin:
I've been part of the VSG team for over two years now. I chose the company because of my interest in software development and the fintech industry. Working with leaders in the field on diverse and challenging projects is incredibly inspiring. I discovered a unique culture and established processes here that offer me many opportunities for growth.
Radostina:
I've been with the company for almost two years, and I'm extremely glad I chose VSG to start my career in the IT industry. What drew me to the team was the exceptional attitude of all the colleagues, the career development opportunities the company offers, and the different approach and vision toward the work itself.
Alexander:
I've been part of the VSG Bulgaria team for three and a half years now. I chose the company because it's product-oriented and focused on the dynamic fintech sector. The opportunity to work on a complex product motivated me because I knew I would have the chance for professional growth and improvement here.
Nina:
I joined two years ago, attracted by the company's values and the opportunities for professional development.
2. What were your first impressions?
Ivelin:
I was extremely impressed by the friendly atmosphere in the company. Colleagues are always very polite and smiling, which creates a positive work environment. It's truly an honor for me to be part of this team.
Radostina:
My initial impressions, which have been reinforced over time, were how united and helpful everyone is. The work process is not only smoother but also more enjoyable when you spend your days in the company of wonderful colleagues. I was also impressed by the team's commitment to innovation and the desire to achieve high results. From the very beginning, I felt well-received, which gave me confidence that this is a place where I can develop and contribute my skills.
Alexander:
My strongest first impression was the atmosphere and culture in the company. Right from the start, I felt that everyone here behaves like one big family where everyone supports each other. This cohesion and collegiality are trademarks of our team and are something I value to this day.
Nina:
My initial impressions were very positive. I found the environment to be welcoming and motivating.
3. What surprised you?
Ivelin:
I'm surprised at how, when the team is properly selected with quality professionals and given full trust, the need for micromanagement disappears, and people remain highly motivated and extremely productive. Everyone approaches their tasks with responsibility and enthusiasm, turning work into not just an obligation but a source of inspiration. Everyone on the team has a clear vision for development and a drive to achieve high results, creating an environment of constant professional and personal growth.
Radostina:
One of the things that initially surprised me was how much emphasis is placed on teamwork and open communication among colleagues. Another pleasant surprise was the events the company offers for its employees, organizing team buildings to strengthen the team and attending various seminars and lectures, as well as providing additional opportunities like trainings and lessons for personal development.
Alexander:
I was surprised by the results the company has achieved this time. It's impressive that despite the scale of the project and the risks associated with changes, the team always manages to use current technologies and patterns. This not only demonstrates courage and confidence but also shows the company's commitment to innovation and high quality.
Nina:
I was surprised by the quick adaptation and the willingness of colleagues to help. Collaboration here is truly strong.
4. How would you describe the work environment and atmosphere in the company?
Ivelin:
The work environment in the company is definitely very positive and pleasant. In such an environment, it's easy to feel motivated, inspired, and to give your best.
Radostina:
The work environment in the company is dynamic and stimulating. The team works in sync, and the atmosphere is positive and supportive, which encourages effective communication and collaboration among colleagues. Although there are situations that are sometimes critical, with joint efforts and teamwork, we manage to handle them. At the same time, there is a high standard of professionalism and a drive for innovation, and even though the company strives for high results, it respects the balance between personal and professional life.
Alexander:
The work environment in the company is professional yet friendly. We have a culture of open communication where everyone's opinion is valued and suggestions and ideas are freely discussed. There's a characteristic sense of mutual support—whether it's about work projects or personal challenges. This creates an atmosphere of trust and comfort where you can develop and contribute with confidence.
Nina:
The work environment is positive and collaborative, with an emphasis on mutual assistance, which is inspiring.
5. What would you say about your colleagues and management in the company?
Ivelin:
In the company, hierarchy is replaced with a horizontal structure that removes barriers between employees at different positions. This creates a sense of closeness, making communication easy and pleasant. Our management provides us with full support and creates conditions where we can realize both our personal goals and those of the company. This leads to a natural development process that allows us to reach new professional heights organically.
Radostina:
The colleagues in the company are extremely competent and responsive. As I've mentioned more than once, I like that everyone works as a team and is ready to help when necessary. There's a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect, which makes daily work more enjoyable and productive. Regarding management—kudos for their patience, responsiveness, transparency, and engagement. They provide clear goals and expectations but also encourage open communication and actively support the development of each employee. This balanced approach creates an environment where everyone can feel valued and motivated.
Alexander:
My colleagues always strive to improve their skills and apply them in the projects we work on. This motivation is contagious and inspires all of us to develop and give our best. They are not only professionals but also people who have become a significant part of my life outside the office. We play sports together, travel together, and share common interests. This closeness enriches not only our personal lives but also our work as a team.
The management brings support and trust to the teams, which is truly invaluable. They value feedback, show respect towards the team members, and make great efforts to ensure we feel good at our workplace. Moreover, they pass on their knowledge and skills, which helps us build ourselves as professionals.
Nina:
The colleagues are exceptional—positive, responsive, and calm. Management is approachable and encourages employee development.
6. If you had to name three positive things, what would they be?
Ivelin:
- Opportunity for personal and professional development.
- Interesting projects driven by well-established processes.
- Friendly work environment.
Radostina:
I'd say the positive things are more, and that becomes clear from the moment one steps into the company. But if I have to choose three, they would be: Innovation, Flexibility, and Open Communication.
- Innovation: Because the company is oriented toward innovative solutions and constantly seeks ways to implement new technologies and methods to offer the best to clients.
- Flexibility: Because the company adapts to changing market conditions and gives flexibility to its employees, whether in the work process, trainings, or additional activities.
- Open Communication: Because the company encourages open communication at all levels. This, in turn, gives employees confidence that their voice and opinion are heard.
Alexander:
- Inspiring atmosphere: The company stands out with a positive and supportive environment that stimulates everyone to develop and feel extremely good in the work environment.
- Interesting and innovative project: The project I'm working on is dynamic and filled with opportunities for development. We constantly implement the latest technologies, which allows us not only to stay current but also to offer modern and effective solutions.
- Openness of management: Managers are open to communication on all sorts of topics, which builds trust and security within the team.
Nina:
First, the supportive environment; second, the team's cohesion; and third, excellent teamwork.
7. And what do you think could be improved?
Ivelin:
The company has the potential to grow significantly, and I believe it should strive for the gradual expansion of its activities. This will give employees more choices and opportunities for professional development in specific roles. A variety of projects will allow everyone to find their place and engage with those that best match their interests and professional goals. In this way, the company will be even better at meeting the needs and desires of its team.
Radostina:
A company can always find an area to improve, whether market-wise, technologically, or by enhancing its internal processes. Personally, I'd like to see VSG develop even more in the IT industry and offer and maintain a wide range of products and projects.
Alexander:
Even though everything is running smoothly, there's always room for change. In my opinion, more projects would give a new impetus to the company, unveiling even more exciting opportunities for the team and accelerating our growth.
Nina:
Despite the numerous extracurricular events, I see an opportunity for more formal trainings and seminars that would contribute to professional development.
8. Would you share with us what you tell your family and friends about your work? How do you describe what you do?
Ivelin:
When I share about my profession as a software developer, I usually talk about how interesting and exciting it is to face new challenges every day and solve complex problems.
Radostina:
Things get quite complicated when it comes to explaining exactly what I do, as no one in my family or among my friends does anything similar, and it's quite hard for them to understand the nature of my work. I often give examples and try not to use terms from my daily life, but it's hard to step outside the vocabulary I use every day. Nevertheless, my loved ones often listen to what I say, nodding positively as if they understand, which isn't quite the case.
Alexander:
To my friends who are also in the field, I easily explain what I do because we're on the same wavelength. To my family, I tell more about the challenges we face and how we overcome difficulties, which makes my work even more interesting and exciting for them.
Nina:
I tell them how dynamic and interesting my workplace is. I share the new knowledge I acquire and how important the support I receive from colleagues is. I want my son to learn the value of mutual help and collaboration.
9. How do you assess the working conditions from your point of view, and would you recommend the company as a place to work?
Ivelin:
The working conditions are excellent for anyone who wants to work hard and develop. Without a doubt, I would recommend the company to anyone who wants to prove themselves and quickly advance in their professional career.
Radostina:
From my point of view, the working conditions in the company are very positive. The work environment is dynamic and motivating, with an excellent culture of collaboration and open communication. We have access to the necessary resources and technologies, which facilitate our daily tasks and help us achieve high-quality results. The company also actively invests in employee development, which is extremely important to me. Trainings and career development opportunities are truly valuable, and I feel that my experience and skills are appreciated. Given all this, I would definitely recommend the company as a great place to work. There are many opportunities for growth and development here, and the team is extremely supportive. I believe that anyone looking for a professional challenge in a positive environment will find their ideal home here.
Alexander:
From my perspective, the working conditions in the company are excellent. I would certainly recommend the company to my friends, and I've already done so—I believe this is a place where people can feel fulfilled.
Nina:
The working conditions are excellent, and I would recommend the company to anyone seeking professional growth in this field.
10. What personally keeps you in the company?
Ivelin:
Every day, I have the opportunity to work with professionals who actively contribute to my development. The sense of belonging and the variety of opportunities for improvement are the main factors that make me happy to be in the company. Understanding and support for my ideas make me feel useful and significant. I feel that I can continue to develop both professionally and personally, which is extremely important to me and makes my work not only satisfying but also inspiring.
Radostina:
Personally, several key factors keep me in the company. First, teamwork and the supportive atmosphere are extremely important to me. The feeling that I work with talented and inspiring colleagues creates a dynamic and motivating environment where we can exchange ideas and learn from each other. Second, the opportunity for professional development and training is something I highly value. The company offers a variety of trainings and resources that help me expand my skills and advance in my career. Lastly, the sense of achievement when I see how our work impacts clients and improves their experiences is very satisfying. The opportunity to be part of something significant and see the results of my efforts motivates me to stay and contribute to the company's success.
Alexander:
I'll put it simply—the team and the culture.
Nina:
The main reasons I stay here are professional development and support from management and colleagues. The feeling that I'm part of the team and that my contribution is valued is very motivating for me.
Our people are the heart of VSG, and their stories say it all. We thank Ivelin, Radostina, Alexander, and Nina for their insights and for being part of our journey. Together, we are building the future of VSG by supporting and inspiring each other!
