"A "get-together" where you could look far beyond the network into the future."
On April 24th, there was an inspiring panel discussion with various young entrepreneurs who had studied at ETH or HSG at the Dozentenfoyer of ETH Zurich. More than 40 guests learned what they think is needed for an entrepreneurial mindset. The event was organized jointly by the ETH Alumni Association and the HSG Alumni.
What skills and abilities are required for an "enterprising mindset"? Flavio Pfaffhauser, Beekeeper, Janette Wiget, Merantix, Jeffrey Christen, Kiyo, Dennis Schmid, START Global and Luciano Franceschina, formerly Teralytics, discussed this question with over 40 guests at the event. The exchange was well moderated by Samuel Enggist, Advisor and Coach "Alumni for Alumni" at HSG.
The "takeaways" summarized: "Those who want to be entrepreneurs practice early on". All of the podium participants already started working as entrepreneurs during their studies. And: almost all of them had a parent who was also active in business. The following qualities are important: self-reflection, self-confidence, knowing your own strengths and weaknesses well, optimism and perseverance as well as interdisciplinary leadership skills. In addition, it is important to seize opportunities when they present themselves. And what drives entrepreneurs? Curiosity, doing things that are fun, felt self-determination and being able to make a difference. Entrepreneurship and leadership also include making difficult decisions and taking responsibility for them. And last but not least: Being an entrepreneur means consciously taking risks and learning from mistakes. This requires an active error culture, such as in "fuck-up nights" or with a "fuck-up wall", on which failed ideas or measures are recorded.
A few comments from guests:
Hanna Hummel: "I found the event very successful. In a pleasant atmosphere, we got personal and interesting insights into the world of start-ups."
Ennika Anneli Vörk: "I really appreciated the exchange between the two universities and the combination of business and technology. It was a good interdisciplinary exchange of experiences."
Nicole Balmer Fröhlich: "It was an inspiring networking event, a "get-together" where you could look far beyond the network into the future."
We would like to thank everyone for the stimulating discussion and the HSG alumni for their cooperation. We are looking forward to next time.
