The art of networking: tired of conventional networking methods? The hottest new way to meet people is through art. Swiss News talks to former banker Sohella Thuiner who put her passion for art to work by setting up a powerful networking system for art lovers.
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Times have changed and with them, so has networking. More and more, people are changing countries due to job opportunities--be it for the long or short term--so efficient networking is often both a business and social necessity if you want to hit the ground running.
Sohella Thuiner--combining her passion and knowledge for art with her business and banking contacts--has succeeded in creating an interesting, new alternative to Switzerland's more traditional networking options.
Move over golf and country clubs welcome to the Art Banking Club (ABC).
The more things change, the more they remain the same
While some of the basic concepts may be the same as with more traditional networking options--membership solely on invitation, the creation of a select group and an easy way to socialise in the right circles--Thuiner's ABC offers something new. particularly for art lovers and those who are fired of, or uninterested in, the old-style clubs.
Created in Zurich in January 2007 by Austrian Thuiner, ABC is comprised of a group of artists (some promising and some established), sponsors, members and key members. Key members differentiate themselves from members by their level of involvement in the club. All participate in what the club describes as "unconventional art and culture programmes" at least nine times a year.
"By being a member you are guaranteed the possibility to attend private art and culture programmes at our organised 'Art Aperos'," Thuiner told Swiss News.
Art aperos, she added, also provide a platform for the club's artists, sponsors and key members to promote themselves--within the limits designated by ABC.
At each art apero a special guest from the art, banking or business world is invited to speak. These have included Dirk Boll, managing director of the Zurich branch of the international art auction house Christie's and Oliver Class. head of art insurance at insurer Allianz.
Though Thuiner is petite in stature, her belief in what she has created visibly abounds.
"ABC is made up of a group of people with a passion for art, which is comprised of specialists from the financial sector, people in the luxury goods sector, simple art lovers and of course artists," she said adding that each apero is designed to be a memorable event, so all invitees are asked to dress elegantly to add to the ambiance.
No such thing as a free lunch
Like in other clubs, membership is not free. Once a potential new member has been invited...
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