"Learning from networking mistakes means thinking about what happened, being flexible, and always trying to get better."
Welcome to ValiantCEO Magazine’s exclusive interview with Saad Kassis Mohamed, a visionary at the forefront of impact-driven innovation. In this captivating conversation, Saad shares insights garnered from a diverse professional journey that spans prestigious firms such as EY, Mosquito Enterprises, and collaborations with family offices like Al Khaleej Capital.
As the mastermind behind groundbreaking projects at Annacott Initiative, Saad seamlessly combines his rich background in M&A with a fervent commitment to spearheading transformative campaigns for sustainable living.
The interview unfolds as a journey through the evolving landscape of professional networking. Saad sheds light on the dynamic blend of traditional and digital networking strategies, emphasizing the crucial role of platforms like LinkedIn in expanding global connections.
His narrative takes an unexpected turn as he unveils a personal story where a seemingly casual networking interaction cascaded into a series of unforeseen opportunities, demonstrating the profound ripple effect of meaningful connections.
Join us as we delve into Saad Kassis Mohamed’s perspectives on the future of networking, where artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and other cutting-edge technologies promise to redefine how professionals connect and collaborate.
This is a conversation not just about networking but a masterclass in turning networking missteps into invaluable learning experiences.
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Table of Contents
We are thrilled to have you join us today, welcome to ValiantCEO Magazine’s exclusive interview! Let’s start off with a little introduction. Tell our readers a bit about yourself and your company.
Saad Kassis Mohamed: Hello Jerome,
Thank you for having me, and it’s a pleasure to connect with you on ValiantCEO Magazine. I’m Saad Kassis Mohamed, and I’m on a journey at the intersection of impact and innovation.
Currently, urrently working on a groundbreaking project at Annacott Initiative, where we’re spearheading transformative campaigns for sustainable living. My background, richly steeped in the M&A landscape, includes navigating intricate terrains with Mosquito Enterprises and collaborating with esteemed family offices like Al Khaleej Capital. I honed my skills in the audit and assurance department at EY, where I gained valuable insights into financial practices and governance.
With a background deeply rooted in M&A, I’ve navigated complex landscapes with Mosquito Enterprises and collaborated with esteemed family offices such as Al Khaleej Capital. My expertise lies in strategic deal-making, and now, I’m focusing more in making that energy flow toward making a positive impact on the environment.
How has the significance of networking evolved over the past decades?
Saad Kassis Mohamed: In my professional journey, which spans diverse organizations such as EY, Mosquito Enterprises, and collaborations with family offices like Al Khaleej Capital, I’ve observed a notable evolution in the significance of networking.
Online platforms, particularly LinkedIn, have become instrumental in expanding my network beyond geographical boundaries.
The recent surge in remote work has further emphasized the importance of virtual networking. Working across different organizations has allowed me to adapt my networking strategy, incorporating both traditional and digital approaches. The ability to connect with professionals globally has become a valuable asset in navigating diverse organizational cultures and industries.
From my standpoint, networking has evolved into a dynamic blend of in-person and virtual interactions, leveraging technology to foster meaningful connections, share insights, and create opportunities. This adaptability and a comprehensive approach to networking have been essential in navigating the evolving professional landscape.
Can you share a personal story where one networking interaction led to unexpected doors opening, and how it highlights the ripple effect of networking?
Saad Kassis Mohamed: During a local industry event, I struck up a conversation with a professional who, at first glance, seemed to have a peripheral connection to my field. However, as we delved into our respective roles and experiences, we discovered common interests and complementary skill sets. We exchanged contact information and decided to stay in touch.
Fast forward a few months, and I received an unexpected invitation from this individual to participate in a collaborative project between Mosquito Enterprises and another organization in a completely different sector. Our initial networking interaction had set the stage for a unique collaboration that I hadn’t anticipated.
This collaborative project not only broadened my professional horizons but also introduced me to a network of individuals from diverse industries. The ripple effect continued as these new connections opened doors to further opportunities, both within and outside my current organization.
What started as a seemingly casual networking interaction blossomed into a series of unexpected doors opening, showcasing the intricate and expansive nature of professional networks. It reinforced the idea that meaningful connections, even seemingly unrelated to one’s current role, can have a profound impact on one’s professional journey, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial interaction.
What are some common networking mistakes people make, and how can they pivot to turn potential missteps into learning experiences?
Saad Kassis Mohamed: In the dynamic world of networking, it’s not uncommon for individuals to encounter certain pitfalls along the way.
One prevalent mistake is the tendency to overlook authenticity—trying to project an image that doesn’t truly reflect one’s genuine self. To pivot from this, I believe it’s crucial to embrace authenticity, allowing connections to form organically based on shared passions and aspirations.
Another common misstep is adopting a transactional mindset, solely focusing on personal gain rather than fostering mutual value. The pivot here involves approaching networking as a collaborative exchange, actively seeking ways to contribute and build meaningful relationships.
Neglecting follow-ups is another pitfall. It’s essential to pivot from this by developing a systematic approach to post-interaction engagement. Sending personalized messages expressing gratitude and finding opportunities to stay connected demonstrates a commitment to maintaining relationships.
Finally, some individuals may shy away from networking events due to various reasons. The pivot involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone, starting small, setting achievable goals, and recognizing that each event offers a unique opportunity for growth and learning.
In essence, turning networking missteps into learning experiences involves self-reflection, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Every interaction, smooth or challenging, contributes to professional growth, making the journey of networking an evolving and enriching process.
How do you see the future of networking evolving with the rise of AI, VR, and other technologies?
Saad Kassis Mohamed: As we stand on the cusp of technological innovation, the future of networking is set to undergo a remarkable transformation with the ascendancy of AI, VR, and other cutting-edge technologies.
Firstly, the integration of AI promises a paradigm shift in personalized networking experiences. We’re on the brink of an era where intelligent algorithms will analyze vast datasets to offer tailored suggestions for meaningful connections, relevant events, and customized content, optimizing the efficiency and relevance of networking endeavors.
Secondly, the advent of VR holds the potential to redefine how professionals engage in networking events. Imagine a scenario where industry conferences or meetups are no longer bound by geographical constraints. VR can create immersive virtual environments, allowing professionals to interact, collaborate, and build relationships in a way that transcends physical limitations.
AI-driven virtual assistants also present a compelling prospect for the future of networking. From automating routine tasks such as scheduling meetings to sending personalized follow-up messages, these assistants could streamline the networking process, freeing up time for professionals to focus on cultivating meaningful connections.
Looking forward, the emergence of skill-based networking platforms seems imminent. AI can facilitate the creation of platforms connecting professionals based on their specific skills and competencies, paving the way for targeted collaborations that are mutually beneficial and innovative.
Jerome Knyszewski, VIP Contributor to ValiantCEO and the host of this interview would like to thank Saad Kassis Mohamed for taking the time to do this interview and share his knowledge and experience with our readers.
If you would like to get in touch with Saad Kassis Mohamed or his company, you can do it through his – Linkedin Page
Disclaimer: The ValiantCEO Community welcomes voices from many spheres on our open platform. We publish pieces as written by outside contributors with a wide range of opinions, which don’t necessarily reflect our own. Community stories are not commissioned by our editorial team and must meet our guidelines prior to being published.
