Meet alena makarava: executive assistant to the ceo
We are excited to introduce you to Alena Makarava, Executive Assistant to the CEO. Originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, Alena holds a Masters Degree in linguistics from the University of Moscow. She speaks four languages, has traveled in more than fifty-five countries, and has worked as a language professor and interpreter before she joined the team at Rapport. She came to the United States after meeting Kevin, with whom she exchanged vows 10,000 feet over Las Vegas, Nevada in a hot air balloon before skydiving to a grass-filled park where they finally touched earth again as man and wife. She lives in a wonderful house in Las Vegas with her husband, her rescue dog, Taco, and she knows she has the most rewarding job in the world!
What does working at Rapport mean to you?
I’m very grateful to work in this amazingly vibrant organization. Our fabulous classes make a positive difference in the lives of people all over the world and it feels good to be a part of that. It is exciting to know that our training works and our customers love it.
I also have the privilege of working with the brightest and nicest people who are generous with their expertise, passionate about changing this world for the better, and more than happy to do the necessary work to address real needs in order to create a genuine, lasting impact.
There's nothing more inspiring than being surrounded by people who like to dream big, people who always present the energy and excitement for how to improve things and make things happen.
What do you love about your position at Rapport?
I am jazzed about coming to work every day! Rapport is the company where I can be myself totally; I can incorporate my strengths into my job and add value. Rapport provides a great environment for my personal development with the process of learning and growing that I am SO passionate about.
I work for the best boss ever. The trust and respect that Michael Saletta gives me is something that I haven't had as an employee in my previous jobs, and I can't tell you how much more quickly things get done when you've established that type of relationship. It absolutely goes both ways, and I think that adds immensely to my love for this job. There’s a fantastic mix of autonomy and teamwork, which brings out the wacky individualism of everyone as well as the accountability of being part of a team. I love that there are vast opportunities here, and there are always new things to improve and create.
If you could share anything with the entire family of Rapport graduates what would it be?
Be a leader. Be a positive influence on others. Create an environment for people to succeed. Make a difference. Be proactive. Get up and make things happen. It's time to start making some really positive, exciting, life-changing choices right now.
Always remember, what you see ... is exactly what you're going to get. You need to see it, believe it, and then make it all come true. Enjoy your life, spend lots of quality time with your loved ones, and actively pursue your dreams!
