Develop an excellent professional network

Can you tell us about your personal and professional background? What initially attracted you to creating a professional network?

Born in Geneva, I grew up in the Grottes neighbourhood, an environment facing major social challenges such as crime and drug addiction. But this complex reality helped forge my resilience, paving the way for unexpected opportunities.

At the age of 13, I got my first job as a delivery boy, and that gave me a taste for work. At 15, I was on building sites, not only to help construct buildings, but also to try to build a better future for myself.

At the age of 19, I passed the selection tests to join the Swiss Special Forces Training Centre (CI FS). I underwent rigorous military training at the Grenadier School in Isone (TI), which instilled in me strict discipline, endurance in extreme conditions and a spirit of camaraderie, where success depends on solidarity.

Without a university degree or a background suited to my creativity and curiosity, I turned early on to activities within my reach: sales and entrepreneurship.

In 2011, I founded GenevAffaires, followed by the launch of PROPRIOPOLY, a real estate company. In 2017, smartMILE was created, specialising in consulting and software integration for SMEs. More recently, in 2021, SWITTY magazine, dedicated to new technologies, was launched.

This passion for technology and determination to become an entrepreneur bore fruit in 2019, when PME Magazine presented the results of my work on Switzerland's first free business valuation tool, an online tool that instantly estimates the sale price of a business.

In 2024, efforts are focused on pushing the boundaries of traditional marketing with the launch of FIRE Marketing, an agency that utilises artificial intelligence. In the same vein, ClickClick.ch, an agency offering web solutions, has also been launched.

My commitment to community involvement came to fruition in 2023 with the creation of the Swiss Association of Business Development Professionals (ASDEVA), of which I am the chair. Featured on Radio Lac in June 2023, this business network is free and based on sharing. It now has over 100 members and promotes inclusion and sustainability for all.

Offering what I would have liked to receive at the beginning of my career represents a positive revenge on my past, and I hope that I have thus started a virtuous circle that is rapidly expanding.

What do you think is the key to developing a strong professional network?

The key to developing a strong professional network is authenticity.

By being sincere in our relationships, we create deeper bonds that go beyond mere commercial interest.

It is also crucial to be consistent, to offer value to those you meet, and to maintain these relationships over time.

My experience with ASDEVA has reinforced the importance of listening to others, understanding their needs and building win-win partnerships based on trust.

Regardless of the contract signed, even if it includes protective clauses covering all possible risks, trust must always form the basis of a partnership.

Without it, there is no point in starting anything, regardless of the stakes or the nature of the deal.

Listening and mutual trust are the foundation upon which any lasting and fruitful professional relationship is built.

How do you manage and maintain your professional relationships over the long term?

When it comes to managing long-term professional relationships, my approach is based on authenticity, listening and consistency.

1. Authenticity: Being yourself, without pretence, helps to build trust. My partners value sincerity because it encourages open communication.
2. Listening: Understanding the needs and expectations of customers, partners and colleagues enables you to offer tailored solutions. It shows a genuine interest in their success, beyond your own interests.
3. Regularity: Maintaining frequent contact, even outside of day-to-day business, strengthens ties. A few words to ask how someone is doing or share relevant information always helps to consolidate relationships.

What tools or platforms do you recommend for effective networking?

For effective networking, it is essential to use tools that facilitate connections while being relevant and strategic.

Personally, I recommend LinkedIn for its ability to create and maintain strong professional relationships. It is a must-have, whether you are looking for partners, recruiting, or sharing content that showcases your expertise.

I also encourage people to actively participate in local networking events. Chambers of commerce, business clubs, or our association, ASDEVA, offer excellent opportunities to meet people from various sectors.

A well-structured, user-friendly CRM system is crucial for tracking contacts and maintaining relationships. Be careful when choosing software, which is often presented as universally suitable: opt for solutions that specifically meet your needs. Limit the number of systems you use to save time and money.

Although technology is a valuable ally in networking, face-to-face interactions remain irreplaceable for building a strong network.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to build their network?

To get off to a good start in building a network, I would advise taking a genuine interest in others.

Listen carefully and learn from each other's experiences.

Offer your help, within reasonable limits, but without expecting an immediate return.

Be consistent and persistent, because trust is built over time and is not earned on the first meeting.

Also, be patient and do not hesitate to ask for advice and feedback.

My network wasn't built overnight, and I didn't learn how to do it from theory. It's through practice, testing and exchange that you truly discover how to establish strong and lasting connections.

Are there any common mistakes that people often make when trying to expand their network?

Absolutely. One of the most common mistakes is to focus solely on what you can get out of a network, rather than asking yourself what you can contribute to it.

A strong network is based on the principle of give and take. It is essential to show genuine interest in others, listen actively, and seek ways to support the goals of the people you meet.

Another common mistake is neglecting follow-up. It is not enough to hand out business cards or attend events. A network must be maintained regularly through the exchange of ideas, opportunities or simple pleasantries.

Thinking short-term can also be a mistake. Building a network takes time and patience. When launching ASDEVA, for example, I knew that the network would grow by valuing each member and creating lasting bonds between participants.

How do you see professional networking evolving in the digital age?

The evolution of professional networking in the digital age is opening up new opportunities.

Online platforms make connections easier and faster, effortlessly allowing you to transcend geographical boundaries. This is a powerful lever for strengthening and expanding your network.

However, the quality and personalisation of interactions must remain a priority. It is essential to behave online as you would when meeting and connecting with people in person. For example, avoid sending impersonal or automated messages, and really engage in conversation with relevant, open-ended questions.

Ultimately, digital technology facilitates connections, mainly thanks to algorithms, but it is authenticity and human interaction that make the difference.

Now it's your turn! Contact three people in your network today, show genuine interest in their projects, listen actively, and create new opportunities for yourself.