You are known for your creative approach in the projects you undertake both in your professional life and in voluntary organizations you belong to. How do these ideas come to you?

Whenever I witness something successful it stimulates me to think about what created that success and how I can learn from that. Success creates success.

I want to make a difference in everything I do. Recently, I organized a complimentary surprise for my clients, “The Friends of the Museums” who were in Athens. A Kavafi poetry reading afternoon led by a specialist, Ms Providou. They were delighted, lived every moment during their 5 day stay.

You have a lot of enthusiasm for the projects you undertake both in your professional life and in the voluntary work that you do. What gives you this energy?

I am confident that I can succeed, in what I do. This is not a pompous attitude but one that guides me to aim high. My parents always encouraged me to set high standards for myself. The encouraging comments I receive from family and friends and business associates the pride they feel about what I do, inspire me to fight more.

Also my daily exercise routine, gives me the physical stamina

How do you transmit this commitment to excellence and energy to those working with you?

I lead by example, I give people the initiative, my trust and I am there to guide them when they need me.

A few days ago I was tied up with an important meeting, when I received a call from one of our staff, about a problem. I encouraged her to handle it herself and do her best. That is exactly what she did, and was able to resolve 90% of the problem. When I got back to the office I thanked and congratulated her.

I have heard your clients speak very highly about the tours you organize, the attention to every individual detail, the experience you create. How do you achieve this?

I am the hostess whether people are coming to my own home or on a trip to Alaska.
My aim is for them to live the experience. My network of contacts enables me to find specialists, in specific fields that enrich the experience of my clients.

You have a wide network, How have you created that?

I enjoy helping others. That helps me meet alot of people and get to know their strengths. When there is an opportunity for them to use their talents in a project I am doing, I will invite them to contribute.

In December when Mr Franco Ianniello from the European Commission, Head of the Tourism Division was visiting local tourist stakeholders, I arranged meetings for him with key contacts at the stock exchange, universities and chambers. He was very grateful for the insight that gave him the chance to approach Tourism with different horizons thαn the usual.

What are you doing to help your staff stay motivated in the current economic climate?

We have explained to them that they were secure here, as long as they continue doing their best, staying alert and sensitive to new opportunities, so as contribute new ideas.

Many came forward to us with suggestions. As for those who did not, we invited them to individual meetings to find out their ideas. Our staff is constantly in touch with our clients, they hear their needs and we want that information communicated to us.

The crisis gives us the opportunity to get closer to staff. There may be more time than before, to talk to people, understand them and find ways to help them.

What advice do you have for businesses today, who may be struggling?

Yes there is a struggle, but it’s important to remain steady, serious, alert, and open to new ideas. I always say search for what is new.

The important sources of wealth in the future will be energy and technology. Companies should provide these or see what they can do to associate themselves with these two resources. At Top Kinisis we chose to focus on technology and developed a strong travel booking platform; www. taxidiamprosta.com which is very advanced for the European standards.

I believe it’s important to stay ahead and lead each new development in your field.