Building a strong professional network is one of the most powerful tools you can develop in your career—whether you’re job hunting, launching a business, or looking to make a greater impact in your field. And if you’re living in Switzerland or another global expat hub, networking becomes even more essential to successfully integrating and advancing in a new environment.

This blog post guides you through practical, experience-based strategies for building a meaningful, effective, and enjoyable professional network—one that benefits others as much as it benefits you. Based on insights from my coaching work and inspired by Adam Grant’s “Give and Take,” here’s how to shift your mindset and adopt the habits that foster genuine connections.

The Mindset Shift: From Taker to Giver

Let’s start with the mindset. If you think of networking as a transactional process where you’re always asking “What’s in it for me?”—you’re likely approaching it with what Adam Grant would call a taker attitude. This often feels uncomfortable and unsustainable, especially if you’re more introverted or driven by purpose.

Instead, I would suggest adopting the mindset of a giver. When you connect with people to help them, support a shared purpose, or bring value, networking becomes easier, more natural, and often more rewarding. This attitude also aligns beautifully with Swiss values around trust, reliability, and mutual respect.

A Structured Way to Build Relationships

To help my clients, especially those who feel overwhelmed or shy about networking, I developed the 4P Model:

1️⃣ Purpose

Why do you want to build a professional network? Be clear on your intention.

Is it to:

• Find a job in Switzerland?

• Help younger professionals in your field?

• Support a non-profit or movement you care about?

• Connect with others in your industry?

When your networking is grounded in a purpose that’s bigger than yourself, you’ll find more ease and authenticity in the process.

For example, my own outreach efforts often revolve around helping clients find jobs, supporting professionals in transition, and strengthening the ecosystem around Global Mobility. That clarity gives me both motivation and direction.

2️⃣ Preparation

Once you’re clear on your purpose, every interaction should be thoughtfully prepared.

• Do your research: Check the person’s LinkedIn, Google their work, and understand their professional context.

• Think about their challenges: What might they need help with? What goals are they trying to achieve?

• Make meeting easy: If you invite someone to lunch or coffee, choose a location convenient for them. If they’re working remotely, make the effort to find a good time and place. Reserve the table. Offer to pay. Make the logistics smooth and respectful.

Being well-prepared shows that you respect their time, which is essential in professional Swiss culture (and beyond).

3️⃣ Presence

When you’re in the meeting, be there fully.

• Focus on the person.

• Listen actively.

• Take notes if it helps.

• Avoid distractions like checking your phone or thinking about what you’ll say next.

Especially in Swiss business contexts, being present and respectful during a meeting leaves a lasting impression. Time is a precious commodity—people remember when you truly listen.

4️⃣ Promises

Always end your meeting with a clear, actionable promise.

• Will you introduce them to someone?

• Will you share a resource?

• Will you follow up with an idea?

Whatever it is, keep your word. Following through builds trust and leaves a positive impression.

Tip: Keep the ball in your court. Don’t expect the other person to manage the relationship or follow up on it. Take ownership of staying connected.

5️⃣ Principles

Let’s add a crucial fifth P: Principles.

Principles are the values and ethics you bring to networking. This is about how you want to show up in professional relationships.

Ask yourself:

• What do I stand for?
• What behaviors do I want to model?
• How do I want people to experience me?

Some principles you might adopt:

• Integrity: Always be honest about what you can and cannot do.
• Respect: Value other people’s time and boundaries.
• Generosity: Be willing to help without expecting immediate returns.
• Confidentiality: Keep sensitive information private.

Your principles are what make your networking sustainable and authentic. They help you build trust over time, and in Switzerland, trust is essential.

Make Networking a Habit (and a Joy)

Networking doesn’t have to be transactional or draining. When done with intention, preparation, presence, and generosity, it becomes one of the most fulfilling parts of your professional life.

Here’s a recap of what you can start doing this week:

• Clarify your purpose for networking.

• Prepare for upcoming conversations or meetings.

• Be fully present when engaging with others.

• Make clear promises—and keep them.

• Try a professional blind date or offer an expert interview.

• Offer people Fame, Fortune, or Friends—depending on what they need.

And remember: you are responsible for maintaining the relationship. Keep the ball in your hands.

Networking isn’t just about getting ahead—it’s about building a community, creating mutual success, and enjoying the journey.

If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences, please reach out. I’d love to hear how your network is growing—especially in beautiful, complex, and opportunity-rich Switzerland.

Inspired by real-life coaching conversations and the work of Adam Grant, this article is part of my ongoing support for expats and global professionals navigating their careers in new territories. Check out the “Red Couch Talks” for more inspiration or join one of my networking workshops to practice in a safe, supportive environment.