If you’re eyeing a business in Switzerland, you’re on the right path. Switzerland is home to many companies in finance and pharmaceuticals, and it’s rapidly becoming a top spot for startups and innovation. In fact, it was ranked first globally for innovation by WIPO in 2023. But to truly succeed, understanding Swiss business culture and etiquette is essential.
Let’s dive into the basics together.
Conducting Business in Switzerland
Success in Swiss business culture depends on strong organization, clear procedures, and careful planning. Let’s explore this further.
Business Strategy, Planning, and Decision-Making in Switzerland
In Switzerland, business planning is typically the responsibility of upper management. Swiss-German companies often favor long-term, detailed planning with strict schedules, while organizations in the French- and Italian-speaking regions may adopt a more relaxed approach.
Due to the hierarchical nature of Swiss business culture, final decisions are usually made by those in the highest positions of authority. Although employees are given a chance to voice their opinions, once a decision is made, it’s accepted without question. Companies with a strong international focus might distribute decision-making responsibilities more broadly within the organization.
It’s also important to note that Switzerland's 26 autonomous cantons can make decision-making at a national level a complex and sometimes slow process due to inter-canton rivalry.
Business Meetings and Negotiations in Switzerland
In Swiss business culture, meetings are planned well in advance—spontaneity is not the norm. Meetings are typically efficient and follow a strict agenda, with everyone expected to contribute and quickly reach a consensus. Humor and socializing are rare during meetings, though French- and Italian-speaking Swiss may allow for some small talk.
Swiss people are cautious, precise, and tough but fair negotiators. Business negotiations require patience, clear documentation, and persuasive arguments, including attention to even the smallest details. Presentations should be clear and concise, avoiding jargon. It’s helpful to summarize your points first and consider providing a summary in the local language. Most importantly, don’t be late.
Business Networking in Switzerland
Personal relationships aren’t a key factor in securing business in Switzerland, but networking is still valuable for making business contacts. Major Swiss cities with large expat communities have networking groups that cater to specific nationalities, such as the UK, as well as broader groups like the European Business Club. There are also groups for women, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.
Business Socializing in Switzerland
Business social events in Switzerland often take place at restaurants, with spouses typically invited. Lunch and dinner are the most common meals for these meetings. Swiss people place a high value on politeness and good manners.
During meals, practice good posture, avoid putting your elbows on the table, and always use utensils, even when eating fruit. It’s customary to cut soft foods and salads with a fork rather than a knife. In the German-speaking parts of Switzerland, call a waiter by saying "Herr Ober" and a waitress by saying "Fräulein." Waving to get their attention is considered rude.
Business Etiquette in Switzerland
First impressions matter a lot in Swiss business culture, so practicing good etiquette is key.
Communication
In Swiss business, greet with a firm handshake and eye contact, shaking hands with everyone you meet. Use last names and formal titles (Sie/Vous/Lei) until invited to use first names, especially when there’s a rank or age difference. Titles like Frau, Madame, and Signora show respect for a woman’s professional status.
Swiss communication is polite and direct. Don’t interrupt—wait until your colleagues finish speaking. Avoid personal questions about age, marital status, or religion, and steer clear of sensitive topics like Swiss neutrality and the military. Keep jokes and hand gestures to a minimum, and maintain good posture.
Dress Code
Business attire in Switzerland is typically formal, though some companies have adopted a more casual dress code on Fridays. Aim to dress well but modestly. The Swiss appreciate clothing that is simple, clean, well-pressed, and in good condition. Jewelry should be understated, and it’s best to avoid wearing jeans or casual attire for a first-time business meeting unless it’s common in your industry.
The Swiss generally dislike flashy displays of wealth, so keep your appearance professional but low-key.
Gifts
You aren’t expected to give a gift during your first business meeting. Gifts are usually exchanged at the conclusion of successful negotiations. A bottle of wine or a product from your home country is a suitable gift. Avoid giving expensive items, as this can be seen as either a bribe or flattery.
Also, steer clear of giving sharp items like knives or scissors, as these can symbolize cutting off a relationship. If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring flowers or candy for the host.
Business Cards
Business cards are commonly used in Swiss business culture, so bring plenty with you. It’s customary to give your card to the receptionist upon arrival and then to everyone you meet, not just your primary contact.
It’s no longer necessary, or even desirable, to include academic qualifications on your business card in Switzerland. Your professional title holds more weight, so you might consider highlighting it by using a different font on your card.
Social Provision Through Businesses in Switzerland
In Switzerland, to access social security benefits, you need to contribute to various insurance types. If you're employed, you and your employer share the costs equally, except for health insurance, which is mandatory and fully paid by you. Your employer, however, covers the cost of accident insurance if you work more than eight hours a week, protecting you from work-related accidents and illnesses. If you're self-employed, you'll need to arrange your own social insurance.
Everyone working in Switzerland must have unemployment insurance, covering situations like job loss and reduced working hours. The contributions are split evenly between you and your employer, with each paying about 2% of your salary. Self-employed individuals must manage their own unemployment insurance.
Women in Switzerland are entitled to 98 days of maternity leave if they meet certain work requirements, receiving 80% of their salary, up to CHF 196 per day.
All employees, the self-employed, and unemployed individuals over 20 must participate in the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance (OASI/DI) scheme until retirement. The costs are shared equally between employer and employee, with the employer deducting your share from your gross salary.
Over To You
Embracing Swiss business culture gives you the chance to work in an environment that values precision, respect, and efficiency. By adopting these principles, you become part of a tradition of excellence that has made Switzerland a global leader in innovation and business. This cultural understanding not only improves your professional relationships but also helps you connect more deeply with a business landscape full of opportunities and rich traditions.
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