Adrian Müller knew early on that he wanted to be an entrepreneur. A childhood friend, whose father was self-employed, shaped his idea of what it means to be your own boss.
"Even back then, I felt that this was something I wanted to do one day," Adrian Müller recalls. The fact that things turned out differently - at least for the time being - had less to do with a lack of motivation than with obstacles at school: His dream of becoming a structural draughtsman was dashed because his grades weren't good enough. Instead, he started in metal construction - a "great time", as he says looking back. This attitude - always daring to try new things and push his own boundaries - has shaped his career to this day: from his first professional qualification to further training as a technical businessman and qualified real estate trustee, right through to self-employment. When the company he previously managed as Managing Director was sold, he knew it was now or never. The step into entrepreneurship was an obvious one - and yet it was associated with risks. "Especially at the beginning, it meant a lot of sacrifice and even more work - but I never shied away from that."
Today, Adrian Müller runs his eleven-strong, owner-managed real estate company ADRIAN MUELLER IMMO-TREUHAND - a company that has been dedicated to a wide range of rental, management, sales and consulting tasks since 2009. Proximity to customers, regional roots in north-western Switzerland and personal support are just as important to him as professional excellence. The decision-making processes in the company are short and the team is well-rehearsed.
What distinguishes him as a leader? A high standard of reliability and quality, which is consistently reflected in his dealings with customers, partners and his own team. "I don't demand anything that I don't do or haven't done myself," he says. He relies on clear communication, trust and a high level of performance awareness. "I try to get the best out of everyone - sometimes by taking a step back myself." Topics such as digitalization and lean processes also occupy the business owner: "You have to keep up with changes without losing your values."
"As a leader, you have to be a good role model. I don't demand anything that I don't do or haven't done myself."
- Adrian Müller, owner and managing director
In this interview, Mr. Müller talks about success, responsibility and social values. He reveals what motivates him, why he prefers to start his working day with an espresso - and which simple career tip has stayed with him to this day.
Mr. Müller, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"That's not so easy to say. As a boy, I wanted to be a military pilot. Later, I was very interested in becoming a structural draughtsman - but I didn't get an apprenticeship because of my school performance at the time. Instead, I was given an opportunity in metal construction and, looking back, that was a great time. I learned that if you're prepared to go beyond your comfort zone, you'll be successful in the long term."
What is your favorite way to start your day?
"I like to be the first one in the office - even if that doesn't always work out. For me, an espresso or two is part of the start. I'm most productive in the early hours of the morning, because that's when I can get my work done efficiently and in peace."
What does success mean to you personally?
"Success can't be defined in one sentence. For me, there are several factors: satisfied customers, motivated employees, a good reputation - and of course the fact that new orders are constantly coming in. The interplay of these elements is what makes real success for me."
What would you work for free for a week?
"For a good cause that creates real added value - at any time. For example, I am involved in the Kiwanis Clubwhere we support socially disadvantaged children. Older people who need help in everyday life - whether with administrative tasks or care - are also close to my heart. I also try to make a contribution in this area through the Klee Foundation. There are many people who are dependent on support. If I can help, I'm happy to do so."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"Always do a little more than your colleagues." A simple sentence - but with a big impact. This advice has accompanied me through many stations. If you're prepared to go that little bit further, you get more responsibility, more trust - and more creative freedom in the long term."
We would like to thank Mr. Müller for his contribution to this article.
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
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basel@batterman.ch
