Alexandra Goman: "You never know what opportunities you are missing if you do not open your mouth"
Network as much as you can – you never know what opportunities you are missing if you do not open your mouth!
Travelling would be the first thing that comes to my mind when you ask me why I am where I am today. And then, dedication and continuous learning. My first Erasmus, an exchange program abroad, has changed my life to the point of no return. Meeting all those international people from across the world made me fascinated about the world. Now I have lived in more than 7 countries, traveled to more than 30 countries, learnt 5 foreign languages. All of this has taught me to widen my horizon, look beyond and look at things from a different perspective – all in all bringing me to where I am now, 2 600 km away from my home city.
What does the cleaning industry need?
More training and more education. Acquiring necessary skills and competences are required in any career, yet it is often overlooked in the cleaning industry. Which is strange considering how exposed operatives are to the hazards and risks in their day-to-day work. Having this in mind, it’s alarming to think that there are still people who continue to neglect a proper education. Having skilled professionals who know dos and don’ts means a clean, safe, and healthy environment for everyone involved in the facility. Something which is extremely needed to advance the industry.
What advice can you give to other women?
I cannot stress enough how important it is to study, to learn and to develop your knowledge and skills. Learn by doing but also learn by reading as much as you can, learn by talking to other people and learn by going to museums, attending conferences and events. Network as much as you can – you never know what opportunities you are missing if you do not open your mouth! Travel as much as you can but avoid fast tourism. Five days in five different countries is not the same as spending a full week or even 3 days in a new place. Get multidisciplinary or specialize in one field. And more importantly, listen to yourself – something good for another person might not be good for you.