Skiing to Success: How Cloudflare CEO's Unconventional Networking Strategy Paid Off at Davos

As the World Economic Forum (WEF) wrapped up its annual meeting in Davos, one CEO's unconventional networking strategy stood out among the sea of formal meetings and discussions. Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince traded the conference room for the ski slopes, and his approach to business relationships may have just redefined the art of deal-making at the prestigious event.

Prince's strategy, which involved skiing with clients, highlights the importance of informal settings in fostering stronger connections and more effective business interactions. By engaging in activities outside of the traditional conference setting, Prince created a more relaxed and candid environment for his clients, enabling them to discuss business opportunities more openly. This approach not only helped to build trust and rapport but also differentiated Cloudflare from other companies, making it more memorable and appealing to potential clients.

The shift towards informal settings for business interactions, such as skiing with clients, can influence the overall effectiveness and outcomes of the World Economic Forum in several ways. First, it allows for more relaxed and candid conversations, which can lead to better understanding and collaboration between participants. For instance, Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince found success in networking on the ski slopes, suggesting that informal settings might foster better business relationships (Source: "Key takeaways"). This can help build trust and rapport, which are essential for productive discussions and negotiations.

Second, informal settings can encourage more creative and innovative thinking. When people are relaxed and engaged in activities they enjoy, they may be more open to new ideas and perspectives. This can lead to more innovative solutions to the challenges discussed at the forum. For example, the World Economic Forum's Global Collaboration Village provides an informal space for participants to connect and brainstorm (Source: "Davos 2025 convenes under the theme of ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age'").

Third, informal settings can help to break down barriers and promote inclusivity. By engaging in activities that are not work-related, participants from different backgrounds and industries can find common ground and build connections. This can help to foster a more inclusive and diverse environment, which is essential for addressing global challenges effectively.

However, it is important to note that while informal settings can have these benefits, they should not replace formal discussions and negotiations. The World Economic Forum is a platform for high-level discussions and decision-making, and formal sessions are crucial for achieving concrete outcomes. Informal settings should complement, rather than replace, formal interactions.

In conclusion, the focus on informal networking at Davos, as exemplified by Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince's unconventional approach of skiing with clients, can enhance the overall effectiveness and outcomes of the event by promoting trust, creativity, and inclusivity. However, it is essential to maintain a balance between informal and formal interactions to ensure that the forum's goals are met.

As Cloudflare's stock performance over the past year demonstrates, Prince's unconventional networking strategy has paid off for the company. By fostering stronger connections with clients and promoting a more relaxed and collaborative environment, Prince has not only enhanced Cloudflare's reputation but also driven the company's success in the competitive tech landscape. As the World Economic Forum continues to evolve, it may be wise for other CEOs to take a cue from Prince's approach and consider the benefits of informal networking in building stronger business relationships and driving growth.