Switzerland is one of the sweetest places to find a job and relocate for work. The Swiss economy’s top industries include pharmaceuticals, electronics, and financial services. Switzerland is also home to thriving startups.
To show what a wealthy country Switzerland is, there’s nothing like a “minimum” wage. However, the cost of living is incredibly high.
If you plan to move to Switzerland for work, you should understand their business culture. We’ll talk about aspects of Swiss work culture that you must learn about.
Working Hours in Switzerland
Swiss workers are expected to go in to work from Monday to Friday, typically from 8:00 to 17:30. Due to the pandemic, companies started exploring reduced working days. This pattern has led to many Swiss employees working only four days a week with longer working hours.
However, many companies still use the five-day workweek, claiming that the four-day week increases burnout and stress.
Industrial staff, office, technical, and sales personnel are limited to a 45-hour maximum (including overtime). Working hours are usually based on individual contracts and collective agreements, so the average working hours for a Swiss resident is 41.5 hours per week.
Switzerland’s working hours also depend on the employer, position, and industry. Hospitals, catering, and hotels may work up to 60 hours per week, although the average sits at 45-48.
You’ll get a lunchtime break of at least 30 minutes every working day, although some companies can get up to 90 minutes of a lunch break.
Dress Code
Swiss residents are reputed for their formal and conservative appearances during work hours. Swiss men and women wear suits to work every day, even though some companies recently introduced casual outfits on Fridays.
Regardless, the standard Swiss dress code is corporate clothing that is simple, clean, and well-laundered. Do your best to avoid colorful or flashy clothing for work purposes.
Public Holidays/Work Leave in Switzerland
Corporate Switzerland observes all national and regional public holidays. Surprisingly, if a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the holiday will not be kept on a weekday.
Working on a public holiday is not permitted in Switzerland. If you must work on a holiday, your employers must submit a request to the necessary cantonal office, stating why work is crucial.
All Swiss workers are entitled to at least four weeks of paid leave each year, whether they work part-time or full-time. Before you take a leave, it’s best to discuss it with your employer and decide the most convenient vacation time for both of you.
You’re also entitled to three weeks of paid sick leave during your first year of employment. For this, you need a medical certificate and your employer’s approval.
Diversity in the Workplace in Switzerland
Diversity describes the variety of people classified by gender or nationality. Switzerland is a diverse country with four cultural regions (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), but they mostly kept a homogenous workforce. Swiss companies started adopting a diverse talent pool after realizing that non-Swiss nationals submitted 30% more applications than native Swiss candidates.
There’s much work to be done, even though there’s little progress. Swiss companies are also improving the number of women in managerial positions. As of 2021, 24% of directors on the boards of the 100 largest companies were women.
Work Ethics in Switzerland
The Swiss business culture thrives on first impressions. As a non-Swiss citizen, it’s essential to embody the values that Swiss people appreciate: responsibility, punctuality, and hard work.
Using the right communication tips are also necessary. Here are some of them:
- Greet others with a firm handshake and make eye contact.
- Introduce yourself, and wait for the other person to offer you a seat.
- Address others by their last name (it’s considered a sign of respect).
- Keep conversation around general topics, don’t try asking about people’s private lives.
- Maintain a good posture – don’t slouch or yawn.
Although the Swiss people don’t mix business with pleasure, lunch dates or business events can be perfect for socializing in the workspace. Whenever you interact with others, keep things cordial and respectful.
