Why is it so difficult to find a job in Switzerland? Experiences of a foreign marketing specialist

It has been a year and a half since I moved to Switzerland. Despite having more than 24 years of marketing experience, the job search here has presented me with entirely new challenges.

I have never looked for a job in quite the same way as I do here. It seems that official papers, local experience, and language proficiency are fundamental requirements, but is there a way to recognize a person’s true value beyond these formalities?

The challenges of an unexpected accident

In April 2024, I suffered an unfortunate accident, which still prevents me from lifting my arm above my head, and I have a long recovery journey ahead. Since physical work is not an option for me right now, it has become even more important to find a role where my experience and skills hold real value. I believe that my knowledge and decades of practical experience in marketing can create significant opportunities without my physical condition being a barrier.

Marketing: My career was shaped by hands-on experience

I started college in marketing, but like many others at that time, I was dismissed from the program. Even back then, I had gathered more practical knowledge about marketing than the theory could offer. I’ve organized events, created graphics, written texts, and produced results that truly resonate with people. When the digital world and the internet revolutionized marketing, I kept pace: I learned to program websites, worked with Google, and continually followed the evolution of new platforms. My practical experience has always defined my work, and I apply and expand my knowledge daily.

Why would I take on cleaning work when my expertise is in marketing?

I am often advised to pursue cleaning work if I cannot immediately find my place in marketing. However, cleaning is not an area where I can make use of my extensive experience and skills. Why not leverage over two decades of marketing expertise in a position where I can genuinely add value?

Language learning and patience: I persist because I believe in the opportunity

Every day, I work on improving my German skills, and although the Swiss dialect is a particular challenge, I strive to understand and master it as best I can. I am confident that I will soon find a place where my skills and knowledge are truly valued, where I am recognized for the added value I bring to the fields of marketing and communication.

I am confident that my work and practical experience will be recognized by an employer who values genuine professional knowledge and dedication, and who is willing to take on the shared risk that, while I live in Switzerland, my German language skills have not yet reached the desired level. Although I am fluent in English, I am committed to learning German daily to meet local expectations as soon as possible.

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