Hi, I understand what you're feeling



Finding a job in Switzerland is not the easiest thing in the world, I have been trying to find a job since last June, there are not that many jobs and many people are searching, and you'll find that you won't here much back from companies.



Just keep on persisting, you'll get something in the end.



Simon
DJ_Symcard, May 5, 2008 @ 13:31

I'll chime in too, looking for work in Switzerland is damn near impossible without some foot-in-the-door. Not to mention being just a tad depressing when everyone else goes to work and you're at home doing applications and laundry :pinch:
KirstyW, May 5, 2008 @ 17:32

Hi,

Yes, it is VERY difficult here.  I am in the same boat, although i have only been here 3wks, still, with my background in NY i could quit today and find a VERY good job tomorrow no problem.

I have tried all the agencies and here is the problem, they'd rather work with someone whom already has a permit (unless of course they have a specific client whom has stated it is not a problem which is far in between).

I am doing some side jobs for cash in the meantime, started this 2wks ago which helps to get my mind off things and gives me some extra cash.  My advice, keep at it.  It isn't easy to stay positive and keep with the mundane work of job searching everyday but hey, looking for work IS a job and as long as you keep that focus you will find something.  Also, NETWORK NETWORK NETWORK!!!  Get out and start meeting people.  A face to a CV works best!!!

Drop me a line...we can go for coffee or something and either help each other out or just shoot the shit.

Hugs, Jess
Jess, May 5, 2008 @ 22:23

Let's all get together for lunch sometime and share strategies and tips on finding work, what do you say?



I'll organise an event if people are interested!



Simon
DJ_Symcard, May 5, 2008 @ 23:27

It is really difficult.  I know some swiss that have been out of work for years.  The people that I met back in 2006 in the obligatory french classes are mostly still unemployed.  Kinda sucks.  Oh well.

You can at least double the official unemployment figures.
seb23, May 5, 2008 @ 23:55

hey everyone, i know exactly what you are talking about. i've been there, done that, have the "T" shirt. i've been here over 30 yrs and can tell you a story or three. for the last 4 1/2 years i've been working with the unemployed ( from top executive to simple factory worker) who get sent to my classes from the ORP ( unemployment office) i also have been helping people here on Glocals to find the best approach for their CV, cover letters and interview techniques. networking is the most fruitful but you need to be able to market the product....that means you! and 99% of all participants need to learn how to do that. those who do, find employment within 3 months.....at least that's the success my participants have. why not organise a get together some evening, and i'll be happy to repeat the information evening i did 2 years ago on sep't 4th in geneva. it was called "Pump Up Your Value". it was free and we had over 40 people bursting out of the classroom. set it up, and i'll be there. most of you know me on Glocals anyway, and know that i'm dedicated to your success.
epicure, May 6, 2008 @ 02:06

Geneva is not good place to look for a job.

it posts a regular 4, 5% jobless rate whereas

Switzerland is hovering at 1% level.

UN-galaxy collaterals?

masson, May 6, 2008 @ 02:34

I would be interested in hearing what you have to say on the topic :) My problem is that I came from such a strong network in eastern Canada that my CV / cover letter skills are certainly lacking!



Where would be the best place to get together? A cafe/bar on a quiet afternoon or perhaps someplace more secluded for a proper learning session (does the Library in English have a common room, for example)?



DJ_Symcard, getting together to discuss over some drinks sounds like a good plan too... we'll call that a "bar therapy" session to raise spirits and exchange tips ;)
KirstyW, May 6, 2008 @ 10:29

Hey, fabulous postings isa :D



I've been told that the job-hunt sites are the best place to start. If you go in person to the offices be sure to ask what territory the agency covers, because it may just be the one town!
KirstyW, May 6, 2008 @ 15:54

the situation today for cv's sent in reply to an ad : approximately 300 to 800( depending on the position and the company) . how do you create a document that is quickly read, and has impact and credibility? for sure, you only get one chance (if that) to have your documents considered. so, be certain that your CV and cover letter are short and to the point. specific and concise.

also, the unemployment rate in switzerland is around 3.5 % and in the cantons of GE and VD

6.5% and 4.5%. and that's only the people receiving benefits. those no longer eligible for benefits but still looking for employment are not considered in these stats.
epicure, May 6, 2008 @ 17:22

When you go to the ORP you are asked to attend some kind of training course such as languages ... etc...

These people which include a lot of foreigners particular from places such as portugal and brazil aren't included in the figures.  You can easily double those employment figures.
seb23, May 6, 2008 @ 17:30

http://www.news-service.admin.ch/NSBSubscriber/message/attachments/11649.pdf

this will show you the latest stats from the SECO for all the cantons in switzerland for the month of March
epicure, May 6, 2008 @ 17:35

isa,



I'm looking for work in process engineering ideally, but have experience designing / draughting as well (my degree is a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering with a diploma in business). My undergraduate work was focused on the design of custom machines, so I'm fairly comfortable in that world too!



My past work experience was creating the quality assurance and production processes (ISO 9001, Six Sigma, 5S, etc.). My "part time" job was helping a friend with the book keeping / administration work for his start-up company.



I'm a quick study in new tasks and industries so even loosely related jobs are of interest to me :)



KirstyW, May 6, 2008 @ 17:39

[quote]Let's all get together for lunch sometime and share strategies and tips on finding work, what do you say?



I'll organise an event if people are interested!



Simon[/quote]



I'm interested, count me in!



I'm also doing some "networking" sessions, going through all the professional associations and meetings (architecture and engineering) around here (geneve, vaud, valais). If somebody wants to join me, just drop me a line!
marcomarco, May 6, 2008 @ 19:10

Wow everyone, this is amazing help. I am officially floored, astounded, appreciative and in debt! Thank you, merci, grazie and bitte too :D



I'm running out the door to the Dee Dee Bridgewater jazz concert, so I'll have to reply properly to you folks tomorrow - this is my first glocals outing so I'm a bit excited ;)



Have splendid evenings everyone!
KirstyW, May 6, 2008 @ 19:51

Hi Isa,

Thanks for the link  ;) , i actually already tried that site a few weeks ago.  Unfortunately this and many other sites are not translated in english and i do not speak the language yet...lovely!
Jess, May 8, 2008 @ 20:03

[quote][quote]Let's all get together for lunch sometime and share strategies and tips on finding work, what do you say?



I'll organise an event if people are interested!



Simon[/quote]



I'm interested, count me in!



Starstruck is also interested in such a brain storm. I'm juggling a few volunteer jobs now, but still no payola.



Let me know 'Ou et Quand?' for a get-together.



starstruck, May 13, 2008 @ 23:27

I'm in the same boat too, I'm finishing up an au pair job and really looking for normal work in Switzerland.



Just so you know there is also the possibility of getting a "trainee visa". Sorry if I'm repeating info that's already been mentioned, but with this visa once you find the position you can then apply for the visa yourself along with the work contract, employer info, etc. You need to have some experience but not too much, and I think with 2.5 years that's still in the "trainee" range. It's a good way to get started anyway, email me if you have more questions, I'm in the process of researching this option.



And I would be interested in a meet up to share ideas as well! I'm looking for work in an Art museum/Art gallery, so I think I have my work cut out for me!



Good luck,

Jailee
jailee, May 14, 2008 @ 17:12

OK Guys I have posted an activity for next wednesday to meet up for lunch, I've chose starbucks as there is normally internet access, so that we can even search on the net for things, so bring a writing pad and pen so that you can jot any jobs we find down (I'll bring my laptop)



Let me know if you're coming.



Simon
DJ_Symcard, May 14, 2008 @ 17:22

Here are some web-related resources in English for job searches:

www.jobsingeneva.com   Jobs for English-Speaking Professionals

http://unjobs.org  -- UN Jobs is a Swiss Association

www.reliefweb.int   -- UN Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs site

For those who have visas, you might want to check with the international organizations for positions under "local hires" -- General staff category.  WHO includes these on their website, but WIPO keeps a list at the main building's front desk (at least, last I checked). 
Translator, May 14, 2008 @ 21:49

Just came across five positions posted over at www.uefa.com  in Nyon, Canton Vaud.  One of the positions is for an assistant, the others at coordinator level.  Euro2008 is looking for runners/drivers for the matches here in Geneva. 
Translator, May 16, 2008 @ 11:11

I briefly considered Euro2008 for a temporary job, but then realised that I get lost going from Les Avanchet to the Balexert tram stops... it's probably best if I'm safely behind a desk for now and not a runner/driver ;)
KirstyW, May 16, 2008 @ 14:46

Hi there - I was just reading the posts... I'm very interested in some of these networking meetings, however I'm in Nyon during the day - but am free most weekends or evenings ... As for myself - I am another au pair finishing up the year in August or thereabouts and looking to start a job in my actual profession, Massage Therapy. I've done a lot of homework with respect to the visas ( as I originally tried for a Massage position last August) - my only real hurdle is finding resources for job postings. As well I'm very interested in working in a more clinical environment, perhaps a physio office or hospital setting, if anyone knows where I can search for postings or post my CV... :) thanks!
jess_b, May 16, 2008 @ 16:11

I also just read this thread for the first time and i can give a little insight as to why approaches to agencies may seem to be falling on deaf ears.



The automatic right to a permit does not apply to the 2005 member states until 2011. Until then applicants get the same treatment as other non EU nationals. This means that the employer would have to sponsor a permit application and JUSTIFY why they are not hiring from the local market.



This may be possible for a multinational but rarely for a company which only operates on the local market. Remember an agency is in competition.. so they will only present candidates that are a prospective 'immediate hire'.



My advice would be to approach the mutinationals direct, then they can decide for themselves if they want to go to that trouble.



Alternatively, try to develop a relationship with a prominent agency, so they can see that you 'interview well'. Give them a reason to propose you to a client ..



Good luck

Phil








wilycoyote, May 17, 2008 @ 12:27

Phil - Great insight!  Finally, someone whom can do more than just copy and paste stats or info directly from the embassy/commune pages...THANKS!!!   ;)
Jess, May 17, 2008 @ 12:33

Seems like a bit of a misplaced comment regarding the copying and pasting -- sharing information is one of the main functions of this website.  I do not assume everyone has the same access to information or that we all know about the same job openings.  :Whistling: 
Translator, May 17, 2008 @ 22:40

Hmm  :crazy: , this is true but no need to fret my pet...to paraphrase for translater, its 'refreshing' to hear a comment that will help us all make a bit more headway.  :cool:  Now, can we not entertain this anymore and get back to helping each other out???!!!
Jess, May 17, 2008 @ 22:53