Languages:

Swiss-German (64% of population), French (19.5% of population), and Italian (8% of population). It’s important to remember that Swiss German is very different from standard German and even a competent German speaker will have trouble understanding the dialect. However, almost all German speaking Swiss can and do use the higher standard of German in professional settings.

Cost of living:

The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc. Switzerland has one of the highest costs of living in Europe, so be prepared for most things to cost a good deal more than they do in the U.S.

Visa and Work Permits:

You need a visa if you plan on staying longer than 90 days. However, no foreigner is allowed to stay over six months. To work, you must have a Assurance of Residence Permit, which you should present upon arrival.

Job Searching: 

Resident foreigners and temporary foreign workers make up about 20% of the Swiss population.        
            There is very little unemployment in Switzerland, a factor which may inhibit your progress in finding a job. Thus, sometimes best way to work in Switzerland is as an au pair, or through an agency such as AIPT, IAESTE, or AIESEC.

            However, if you look for jobs, the two major business centers are Basil and Zürich. Geneva also has several options as it plays headquarters to a number of international organizations such as GATT, IRC, EFTA, WHO as well as 10 other United Nation agencies.

            The Swiss are impressed by older, venerable institutions, so if you have worked for any be sure to include the founding date of your company on your resume.

            You should ask a potential employer about the English language proficiency of the businesspeople you will encounter. If French, German or Italian is what they speak best, you will want to prepare accordingly.

Cultural Differences in the Workplace:

Business matters may vary depending on the region. Swiss Germans may be more formal and methodical. French and Italian Swiss may be more relaxed and open before getting down to business. Overall, however, Switzerland maintains a deeply conservative and highly regulated business environment with significant reluctance to taking risks. 

            The Swiss are very private people so you should avoid asking personal questions. The Swiss can be rather earnest so it is advisable to avoid making jokes in a corporate setting until you are sure of your ground.

            Minding the Swiss value of privacy, it generally takes a long time to establish personal relationships. Maintaining control over your emotions, being a responsible, sound business person, and leading an orderly disciplined life are important virtues for the Swiss.

Money, Banking & Insurance:

This is your chance to have your very own “Swiss bank account”. The website http://swiss-bank-accounts.com/e/index.html, operated by Swiss company Micheloud & Cie, should have all the information you need about opening an account.

Security/Safety:  

Switzerland has a low rate of violent crime and the potential for specific threats against Americans is extremely low. The website
http://www.worldworx.tv/safety/europe/switzerland/index.htm has a comprehensive listing of safety information for Switzerland.