For today’s interview, we had the pleasure of sitting with Marija Djordjevic, the Human Resources and Administration Manager at Cosmic Development’s Belgrade office. Marija’s journey into the realm of Human Resources began during her university studies in economics, where she discovered a passion for understanding the complexities of human behavior within the workplace. This passion drove her to pursue various roles centered around people management and development, ultimately leading her to Cosmic Development over seven years ago.
Since then, Marija has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s culture, fostering employee satisfaction, and implementing innovative HR practices. Her dedication to making a tangible impact on employees and the organization is evident in her daily efforts to create a positive and productive work environment. Join us as we explore Marija’s experiences and perspectives, gaining a deeper understanding of the impactful world of HR at Cosmic Development.
Please share a bit about your journey and how you found your way into the field of HR.
My journey into HR began during my university years when I studied economics. Through a couple of subjects at University, we learned a lot about Human Resources Management, and I was fascinated by the complexities of human behavior and how it translates into the workplace. After graduating, I worked in various roles that involved people management and development, which naturally led me to pursue a career in HR, together with my desire to work in HR one day. When I joined Cosmic Development over seven years ago, I found an environment that valued my background and provided opportunities to grow and implement innovative HR practices.
What do you find most fulfilling about working in HR, particularly within our company?
What I find most fulfilling about working in HR at Cosmic Development is the ability to make a tangible impact on both the employees and the organization. Seeing how our initiatives contribute to employee satisfaction, productivity, and the overall positive atmosphere is incredibly rewarding.
How do you approach building a positive company culture, and what role do you believe HR and Administration Manager plays in shaping it?
Building a positive company culture and working atmosphere starts with understanding the organization’s core values and ensuring they are reflected in every aspect of the business. As an Human Resources and Administration Manager, I believe my role is one of the crucial in shaping this culture by fostering open communication and recognizing and rewarding positive behaviors. I also prioritize creating programs and policies that support work-life balance, professional development, and employee well-being. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.
In your opinion, what are the key qualities or skills that make a successful HR professional?
A successful HR professional needs a blend of empathy, strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and a professional but friendly approach. And before all, an HR person needs to be a good listener. It is more than important to know how employees feel about every aspect of work and the workplace, what they need to be surrounded with to make expected results and performance, or even more. Empathy is essential for understanding and addressing employee needs and concerns. Strong communication skills are necessary for effectively conveying policies, expectations, and feedback. Strategic thinking is essential for aligning HR initiatives with the overall business goals. Additionally, being adaptable and proactive in anticipating changes and challenges in the workplace is crucial.
As HR, how do you prioritize employee well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance within the company?
Prioritizing employee well-being involves implementing policies and programs that support physical, mental, and emotional health. We offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and various activities for relaxation and fun. Additionally, we promote a culture where taking breaks and using vacation time is encouraged. Regular check-ins, feedback talks, and sessions help us stay attuned to employee needs and adjust our strategies accordingly.