Free guide
The Swiss Job Interview Guide
Everything you need to feel prepared for an interview in Switzerland — the questions you will likely hear, how to present yourself and how to negotiate your salary.
Common interview questions
Tell us about yourself.
Give a 90-second, structured summary: current role, two relevant achievements, and why this position fits. Swiss interviewers value concise, factual answers over storytelling.
Why do you want to work in Switzerland / for our company?
Show you researched the company and the region. Mention concrete reasons (products, values, team) rather than only quality of life or salary.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Back each strength with a measurable example. For a weakness, name a real one and explain what you are actively doing to improve it.
Describe a conflict with a colleague and how you resolved it.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasise consensus and respectful communication — highly valued in Swiss workplaces.
How good are your language skills?
Be honest about your level (e.g. B1 German) and show a plan to improve. In many roles, German, French or Italian is a real advantage.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Swiss employers value loyalty and stability. Show ambition that grows within the company rather than a quick move elsewhere.
What are your salary expectations?
Give a researched annual gross range in CHF — see the salary section below.
Body language & etiquette
- Be on time — ideally 5–10 minutes early. Punctuality is non-negotiable in Switzerland.
- Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact and greet everyone by surname (Herr/Frau, Monsieur/Madame) until invited otherwise.
- Dress conservatively and neatly; understated quality beats flashy style.
- Sit upright, keep your hands visible and avoid excessive gestures.
- Speak calmly and precisely. Modesty is respected — let facts speak instead of self-praise.
- Listen fully before answering; interrupting is considered impolite.
- In video interviews, look into the camera, use a neutral background and test your setup beforehand.
Salary negotiation in Switzerland
- 1Research first: use the Federal Statistical Office salary calculator (Salarium), industry surveys and job portals for your role, canton and experience.
- 2Always talk in annual gross CHF, and clarify whether it is paid in 12 or 13 monthly salaries.
- 3Give a realistic range with your target near the upper middle, and justify it with skills and results.
- 4Consider the whole package: pension fund (BVG) contributions, holidays, bonus, training budget, flexible or remote work.
- 5Stay polite and factual. Aggressive negotiation is uncommon; a well-argued, calm request is far more effective.
- 6Get the final offer in writing before resigning from your current job.
Practice today. Confident tomorrow.
Rehearse these questions in a realistic mock interview with instant feedback.
Start practising for free