18 / 32
18
Nebi Tonguç
Advisor, Tekfen Construction
What does itmean for you to be part of the Tekfen family?
You become a member when you are hired, naturally. It must be a source of
personal and professional satisfaction to work in a highly corporate environ-
ment, with elite colleagues, while also participating in social activities that
have increased in recent years. But if you ask me, there’s something more im-
portant than being a member of Tekfen, and that’s being a Tekfenist! This
concept was there when I joined Tekfen in 1973, and despite all our profes-
sionalism, I think it’s still there. What does it mean? Here’s my definition:
Caring for Tekfen... Under all conditions, and in every business situation,
thinking, acting, and making decisions like you are the owner of Tekfen. Mak-
ing your plans, budgets, spending, and all your decisions regarding work ac-
cordingly, and thinking, “How does this thing I’m doing contribute to Tekfen?
How can I increase my contribution?”
What would your advice be to youngpeople just starting at Tekfen?
Your word is your honour. Work and project contracts are the honour of the
company. Keep your word. Don’t make promises you cannot keep. Pay atten-
tion to details. They say “The devil is in the details.” But don’t miss the forest
for the trees, either. Always have your work schedule and your budget at your
side. Know how one translates into the other. Set time aside for planning and
your planner. And of course your personnel responsible for project budgets
and costs...
Don’t be afraid of dreaming. Dream of new methods. When in doubt, discuss
it with your older brothers who have more experience. Ask questions about
methods and things that are new to you and take notes (in memory of late
Haldun Erktin). Do your research, collect information, and share it with your
friends. Read. Be knowledgeable about macro/micro economy and about the
leading companies in Turkey and the world. Follow closely what these compa-
nies do to keep up with the changing world.
Attend your meetings and be punctual. Expect the same from others. You
don’t have the right or the luxury of making grammatical errors or spelling
mistakes in your writing where you represent the company – that includes let-
ters written on paper with company letterhead as well as e-mails. Lack of time
is no excuse. Be very careful, and reread what you have written before you
send it. Show the same care for the documents you receive and the approvals
you give. But most important of all, never neglect your family and your chil-
dren because of work. They are your reason for living.
Sedat Yalçın
Finance Manager,
Tekfen Construction BTC Site
What does itmean for you to be part of the Tekfen family?
Being part of the Tekfen family. That’s a cliché, but that doesn’t stop me from using it. Yes, be-
ing a member of Tekfen is really a “privilege.” Tekfen is a school of life. I am honoured to be
working at a great company that opens up to new horizons, integrates you to the world, always
finds a place for itself on international platforms where it is lauded, contributes to national
economy, and leaves its competitors in awe with its stance, its accomplishments, and its steady
progress. I got married while working at Tekfen, I had children, I put them through school, and
I bought a house. My children also work at Tekfen; one of them even got married. I’m a Tekfen
member through and through, and I’m proud of it. It’s the best thing I can wish for anyone.
What would your advice be to youngpeople just starting at Tekfen?
My humble advice would be to be moral, proper, honest, hardworking, patient, and contended,
no matter what their career paths... They should work in line with the company hierarchy, re-
spectful and tolerant towards their superiors and subordinates, refraining from lying, resent-
ment, and hatred; they should be diligent and keep their word... Be inquisitive, never give up
easily, and always stand their ground...
My father used to tell this proverb to me and my siblings at every opportunity, and I always
keep it in mind: “The well-built wall may shake, but it never breaks.” You have everything in
that proverb. Don’t try shortcuts to rise or to become rich, take pleasure in what you do, be
satisfied with your work, and go for the long haul, one step at a time. That’s the greatest posi-
tion, wealth, and happiness.
What does it mean for you to be part
of the Tekfen family?
It means a lot to me. Being part of the Tek-
fen family is truly a privilege. I have been a
member for many years. These have been
my happiest years. This was my first job,
my first company. I worked with Feyyaz
Berker from the beginning, from 1971 un-
til the present. I’m a very lucky person to
have had such a boss. Tekfen was like a real
family to me.
What would your advice be to young
people just starting at Tekfen?
Firstly, to work honestly. To feel in their
hearts that they are part of Tekfen.
Ali Arslanoğlu
Service Person