Switzerland is a small nation that already has more than 8 million inhabitants. Major industries have almost entirely moved to nations with much lower labor costs. So the question immediately arises: is it easy to find a job in Switzerland?
The country is small and now saturated, with almost 9 million inhabitants. The unemployment rate quoted by the Swiss Federal Office does not correspond to reality. It does not take into account people who receive social assistance, who are not registered with the unemployment insurance fund or who stay at home on maternity leave beyond the period stipulated by the ZKG.
Is it easy to find a job in Switzerland?
Apart from construction and hospitality, there are only the tertiary sector, healthcare, the precision industry and a few other sectors that need workers. However, most jobs correspond to highly specialized profiles.
It should be noted that companies looking for staff must first contact the RAV and only then, if they do not find what they are looking for, can they search on their own. If a Swiss company searches on its own, it is usually because it wants to hire foreign staff in order to save on wages. In fact, foreigners are usually satisfied with lower wages, while unemployed Swiss must be offered wages in line with the market, because the unemployed “Swiss” will not accept low-paid jobs or jobs with wages below the average for that job.
This does not imply that employment in Switzerland is impossible to come by. There is work, but it isn’t necessarily well paid and it’s not for everyone. As a result, speaking the language of the canton is crucial for job seekers; if not, prospects will be severely limited and the likelihood of being scammed will rise.
Additionally, creating a curriculum vitae in the Swiss template and including degrees, certifications, and other certificates (such as language learning or refresher courses) is crucial.
Finally, remember to provide references from prior employers.
The so-called “I can do a little bit of everything” have virtually little chance of getting employment in Switzerland because there are tests and schools for every job. As a result, it must be individually requested for every kind of professional figure that is needed.
Nowadays, finding a job in Switzerland is not impossible, but if you don’t apply consistently and diligently, your chances of getting hired will be very low. I’ve seen people posting job searches in Facebook groups as they consider finding employment in Switzerland, unbelivable.
Those who are serious about finding employment should write a strong resume in the language of the canton in which they wish to work. A cover letter and motivation letter must be sent with the CV, together with copies of all relevant qualifications, certificates, references, and other materials.
After that, you can begin your online job hunt by submitting your application straight to employers or employment agencies. Alternatively, you might fly immediately to Switzerland and hand present your resume (this is the most expensive but best choice).
Finding a job in Switzerland, possibilities
Consequently, to sum up, your chances of landing a job in Switzerland are greatest if:
- you speak German, French, or Italian
- you are an EU citizen
- you have a strong educational background
- you have outstanding professional references.
- you have worked in the necessary role for a few years
One thing that can make a difference is the kind of job you are looking for. Certain abilities are in great demand while others are not at all, just like in any other nation. Therefore, your chances of getting recruited will greatly increase if your job is one of the most in-demand in Switzerland.
If you do not meet these requirements, it is not surprising that you will have considerable difficulties finding work in Switzerland.
Lastly, I would like to offer you one more piece of advice: avoid accepting too-enticing job offers that are typically available online or those that offer trial periods, which may sometimes extend for weeks and pay next to nothing. These indicators should instantly lift your spirits.
If you would want additional information about living and working in Switzerland, I suggest visiting this page.
