Trust as the Foundation of Networking
At Risk-In 2026 in Zurich, Philippe Séjalon sat down with Daniela Casetta, founder of FUNdamental networking, right after her session on the art of building professional relationships. Her core message was clear and direct: networking is not fake. On the contrary, it is deeply rooted in trust, which she considers the foundation of every meaningful professional relationship.
Active Listening as the Starting Point
So how do you build trust quickly at a networking event? According to Daniela, it all starts with active listening. Paying genuine attention to what someone is saying, rephrasing their words, and asking meaningful questions makes the other person feel valued and heard. As she put it, everyone wants to feel valued, and that feeling is where real connection begins.
Practical Tips for Introverts
For those who consider themselves introverts, Daniela offered concrete and reassuring advice. When entering a crowded room, resist the urge to jump straight into a conversation. Instead, take a moment to breathe, observe the crowd, and identify smaller, more approachable groups. She specifically recommends targeting groups of three, because when you join a trio, the group naturally becomes four and often splits into two pairs, making conversation flow more naturally and less intimidating.
The Power of Curiosity and a Smile
When it comes to opening a conversation, Daniela keeps it simple: a polite greeting, a genuine smile, and a request to join the group. She also highlights the importance of eye contact and, above all, genuine curiosity about the other person. When you are truly interested in who someone is, doors open. These small, intentional gestures are what transform a sweaty-palmed entrance into a meaningful professional encounter.
Discover FUNdamental networking
FUNdamental networking is dedicated to helping professionals build authentic and lasting connections in their careers. Through workshops, sessions, and live events like Risk-In, the company promotes a human-centered approach to professional networking, focusing on trust, curiosity, and communication skills. Its mission is to break down the barriers that make networking feel artificial or stressful, and to show that genuine relationships can be built quickly and naturally. FUNdamental networking supports both extroverts and introverts in developing the confidence and tools they need to connect with others meaningfully. Discover more about FUNdamental networking.
