Land Your First Job in Zurich with HireMeExpress

Global Rockstars

Navigating this sea of noise requires a strategic approach for Expats and their Spouses. This might involve creating high-quality, relevant content, utilizing targeted advertising, engaging with the audience, and staying adaptable to changes in the digital landscape. Building a meaningful online presence takes time, persistence, and a keen understanding of the target audience. 

Learn more about our Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress – From Frustrated to Fantastic in 90 Days.

Are you an expat spouse in Switzerland, navigating the challenges of job hunting, or dreaming of starting your own business in the vibrant city of Zurich? We understand your unique struggles, so we’re here to introduce you to HireMeExpress, a group program designed to empower expats like you and guide you toward success in your career. 

The program is closed and will open for sale again in the fall or winter of 2024.

Please remember we’re here for you if you wish to work with us on a 1:1 basis. Your journey is our priority.

SIGN UP FOR OUR WAITING LIST:

HireMeExpress Waiting List

 

Resources for Your Journey

Why we think Expat Spouse Career Support is Essential for the Retention of Expats

Spouse Career Support is not just a service; it’s a fundamental pillar for the success of international moves. It plays a pivotal role in alleviating the challenges faced by the accompanying spouse, reducing stress, and mitigating the sense of isolation that often accompanies such transitions.

Beyond the immediate emotional benefits, providing career support to the accompanying spouse has profound implications for their overall well-being. Feedback from our clients consistently reinforces that they feel more settled in Switzerland when their spouse receives dedicated career assistance. We strive to foster an environment that minimizes the potential for family separation during this critical period of adjustment.

Moreover, investing in the career development of the accompanying spouse is an investment in their employability. By enhancing their skills and marketability, we empower them to become more attractive candidates to potential employers. This not only contributes to their personal growth but also aligns with our commitment to offering comprehensive support.

From an organizational perspective, companies that proactively offer Spouse Career Support send a powerful message of dedication to their employees and their families. This commitment, in turn, serves as a magnet for talent, fostering a workplace culture that values the holistic well-being of its members. This approach significantly contributes to talent retention, boosts employee engagement, and cultivates a sense of loyalty within the workforce.

Crucially, Spouse Career Support is not just about individuals; it’s about recognizing and addressing the diverse needs and experiences of employees and their families. In doing so, organizations contribute meaningfully to their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts by creating an inclusive environment that values every facet of the employee’s life.

Our success stories extend beyond basic support, reaching expats and expat spouses with seniority who might typically face limited opportunities in the Swiss job market. Angie Weinberger leverages her exceptional network and reputation to connect clients with decision-makers within target companies. This personalized approach transcends traditional career support, providing a bridge to opportunities that may have otherwise remained elusive.

In essence, Spouse Career Support is a cornerstone of successful international transitions, embodying a commitment to individuals, families, and the broader goals of fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

 

HireMeExpress - 12 Weeks from Frustrated to Fantastic
Expat Coach and Global Mobility Yoda Angie Weinberger

What other clients are saying about our Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress – From Frustrated to Fantastic in 90 Days.

The key to a good Aperol Spritz goes beyond the proportions…it just tastes better depending on the atmosphere and the people you are with. I present to you Angie – the ultimate career bartender and her Ange-a-rol Spritz also known as the HireMeExpress program. No matter what season of life you are in, Angie’s program will give you a perfect blend of what you need to get to the next level in business and life.

Digital Marketing and Event Manager

Angie was my navigating system in Switzerland helping me in plenty of directions: cultural adaptation, how to transform my job application to the local market, to develop writing, storytelling, and structured way of expression. She believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.

I highly appreciate her approach to constructive feedback, direct flexibility to adapt to the audience’s needs,  big heart, up-to-date advice, personalized attitude, giving ideas and new viewpoints, direct to the point, and motivation to go on trying. Following her advice, I now feel much more accepted here in Switzerland and feel more confident.

Antoaneta Petrova, HR Project Manager

During my transition to Switzerland, I quickly learned that I needed more than just a really good resume to tackle the local job market. I participated in the HireMe! Program with Coach Angie Weinberger because of the action-driven approach. I invested in myself and my career in this new country and it was worth it. The sessions and tasks made me aware of my strengths and chances. When I mapped out my network, for example, it was much bigger than I expected. Angie had great tips on how to approach and expand our network genuinely and authentically. The input and feedback I received from Angie were personal and focused. She and her team gave me the tools and self-esteem to land my first job in Switzerland! 

RV, Supply Chain Specialist

Angie was recommended to me as a mentor when I had a hard time finding work and lost my focus on what I actually wanted to do professionally and how to get there. I applied for the AIESEC Alumni Germany (AAG) Mentorship program and got the chance to be mentored by Angie.

We had monthly sessions and discussed topics that were important to me and she brought up topics that gave me new perspectives and motivation. I always felt that she cared and she offered extra sessions if I needed them. She is very experienced and inspiring in her way of helping people find their career path.

In her coaching program #HireMeExpress, we learned methods and valuable tips and tricks on how to find new access to and increase our chances on the job market.

Thanks to all that I found a new job and gained the courage to choose a new career path. I am grateful for the interesting and inspiring people I met. Most importantly I gained confidence in my skills and goals for the job market. I strongly recommend Angie and her program as she is a pro in her field, inspiring, and caring and it is fun working with her.

Malina Hillar

Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress – From Frustrated to Fantastic in 90 Days in Zurich, Switzerland

 

Your Time to Shine: 6 Tips to Create a Strong LinkedIn Profile

Get the Recruiter’s Attention with a Swiss Cover Letter

The ‘Bourne Effect’ – Why you Need a Brand

 

Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress – From Frustrated to Fantastic in 90 Days in Zurich, Switzerland

Before I tell you about the life-changing program for the Expat Spouse, “HireMeExpress,” let’s consider who this is for…

  • You are an Expat Spouse living in Zurich, Switzerland (or close by), and you feel you have lost your confidence because it is much harder to find a job than expected.
  • Right now, you are insecure about how you contribute financially to your partnership and despise your dependency.
  • You belong to a cultural minority in Switzerland, and you feel that your confidence has taken a hit. Going through cultural adjustment wasn’t easy, but even worse, you now feel like a financial burden to your partner. You want to work, be productive, and contribute to the world.
  • You might be trying to stay positive and not lose hope, but sometimes you feel like you are living in illusions because you’ve been looking for a job for over six months and haven’t even had an interview yet.

You are in the right place, and I will tell you exactly how HireMeExpress will give you the tools, inspiration, and unparalleled support you need to find a job or gain another source of income in Zurich, Switzerland.

Email angela@globalpeopletransitions.com to be added to our waiting list.

By the end of the Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress Zurich, you will…

  • Feel like you are fulfilling part of the partnership or marriage deal.
  • Reach out to strangers and ask for support.
  • Have built a professional network and gained access to the “Circle of Trust.”
  • Have the mental capacity to be there for your partner and support them in their striving career.
  • Be clear about your purpose in this country and your life season, and have a plan of action for moving forward.

Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress

Angie Weinberger is amongst one of my top go-to resources for Global Mobility questions. People who are considering working with Angie should know that they are getting over a decade of insider information and hard-earned experience packed neatly into 12 weeks. Not only is Angie savvy about the market and hand-delivers critical strategies to succeed in challenging contexts like Switzerland, but she does so with such a human touch that helps you feel seen and understood exactly when you need it most.”  

Sundae Bean, Podcast Host of Expat Happy Hour https://www.sundaebean.com/expat-happy-hour/

“During my transition to Switzerland, I quickly learned that I needed more than just a really good resume to tackle the local job market. I participated in the HireMe! Program with Coach Angie Weinberger because of the action-driven approach. I invested in myself and my career in this new country and it was definitely worth it. The sessions and tasks made me aware of my strengths and chances. When I mapped out my network, for example, it was much bigger than I expected. Angie had great tips on how to approach and expand our network in a genuine and authentic way. The input and feedback I received from Angie was personal and focused. She and her team gave me the tools and self-esteem to land my first job in Switzerland!” 

RV, Supply Chain Specialist, Zurich, Switzerland

Angie Weinberger
Angie Weinberger

Book a meeting to see if you are a good fit for the program:

Book a Meeting with Expat Coach Angie Weinberger

What’s in the Program?

Online sessions HireMeExpress Worksheets HireMeExpress Group Coaching HireMeExpress
We believe in clear goal setting for your program and an action plan on what you need to work on. We also encourage you to do the weekly reflection exercises. Each participant is entitled to a bi-weekly 1:1 coaching session with Angie Weinberger. The coaching focuses on overcoming blocks and returning to the right level of self-confidence. We deliver twelve modules of content directly to your inbox. The modules contain videos, text, and live teaching elements. All of our coaching programs are highly interactive. Therefore, we developed worksheets to support you during the modules. We meet once a week with all participants on Zoom, usually on Fridays, to reflect on the previous week.

 

angie weinberger - the ultimate career bartender
HireMeExpress Program by Angie Weinberger

Bonuses

These bonuses help you generate unstoppable momentum (and keep it) until you sign that contract or first client.

  1. Individual collaboration sheets so you can directly connect to at least ten contacts in our network.
  2. Online support is available through our team from Monday to Friday via our RockMeApp.
  3. Participation in our weekly reflection group on Fridays.

Email angela@globalpeopletransitions.com to be added to our waiting list.

Frequently Asked Questions about our Program for the Expat Spouse HireMeExpress

Do I have to be in Switzerland to participate in HireMeExpress?

You don’t have to live in Switzerland before you can benefit from this program’s value. If you plan to move to Switzerland, an ideal time to start this program is six months before moving. However, having a work permit through your spouse’s employer would be best. Contact us if you are not sure about the permit types.

Can I participate in the program?

Anyone looking for a means of earning income is suitable for the program. However, it is geared towards those who feel they have a more challenging time finding a job in the host country because of a lack of network and visibility. Everyone has different challenges. We noticed that female expats and rainbow talent often have a more challenging time in countries like Switzerland. If you are unsure, you can always call us for a meeting.

Do you guarantee I will get a job during the Expat Spouse Career Program HireMeExpress Zurich?

We can guarantee that our method and process are proven. However, it would be best to commit to getting the most out of HireMeExpress.

Can my Partner and I participate in the program?

Usually, it’s better if your partner focuses on their role and if they let you do the work required. However, we can discuss your situation in a call.

What if I feel I’m not a good fit for the program after buying?

If you buy the program, go through modules 1 and 2, and feel that you are not a good fit, we will refund your course cost if you show me that you’ve done the required work.

Why is the course price higher than an average online course?

This is because it is a hybrid course (blended learning) in which you regularly have live individual coaching sessions and group coaching sessions. We offer the course at a market-level rate, and it’s the same price for companies and organizations wishing to support better their expat spouses who are moving to Zurich, Switzerland.

Do I need a work permit from the host country to participate in HireMeExpress?

Yes, it is highly recommended that you only join this course if you have a work permit for Switzerland. If you don’t have a work permit, we recommend individual coaching sessions and a consultation with an immigration specialist. We can connect you with them.

Do I need to speak German or Swiss German, or is English sufficient to find a job or an income in Zurich?

This is a role-specific question that I can only answer in the context of your role. However, many of our previous coaching clients do not speak German or Swiss German and are mainly fluent English speakers.

Which key success factors have previous participants highlighted?

They are accountable to a coach and a group and have concrete pointers to start their networking efforts. Another key success factor is the highly interactive work in the group and the strong personal commitment that we bring to every single client.

Are we still thinking about our Program for the Expat Spouse HireMeExpress?

You should give HireMeExpress a 14-day risk-free shot if motivated by the following.

  • You are worried you might not find a challenging and purposeful job in your host country.
  • You underestimated the challenge of working in a language not your mother tongue.
  • You might have thought it would be easier to get online work opportunities in this day and age.
  • You are looking for purpose and fulfillment.
  • You did not expect that cultural adjustment would hit you that hard, and putting on weight, eating more, and drinking more alcohol doesn’t make you more attractive at this point in your life.
  • You are convinced that once you have a clear day structure again, you can battle these signs of cultural adjustment and get back into shape.
  • You are motivated by the energy you will have once you have started your work routine again.

Most importantly, you are motivated by having a good life in the new country with your partner. Your relationship will be more harmonious, and you will feel you are building a life vision together again. That’s why you are motivated beyond measure to invest the next few months in getting fit for this job market and simultaneously learning the host country’s language.

Email angela@globalpeopletransitions.com to be added to our waiting list.

Book an appointment with Angie Weinberger if you still have doubts about the program.

 

Virtual Coffee

Guarantee

This is an intensive digital course for Expats and Expat Partners of all colors, genders, and orientations. To a certain extent, this course will also help migrants and refugees. We welcome you to chat with us so we can see if you are a good fit for our program. If you buy the program and go through modules 1 and 2 and feel that you are not a good fit, we will refund your course cost if you show me that you’ve done the required work.

Our General Terms and Conditions for Executive Coaching Clients apply

 

 

 

We teach you everything about the Swiss Job Market including Swiss Cover Letter writing
We teach you everything about the Swiss Job Market, including Swiss Cover Letter Writing.

Content of the Program

HireMeExpress is a coaching program that assists expat spouses in entering the job market in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. With over ten years of successful operation, we have helped numerous clients secure employment and continue to provide comprehensive support to individuals seeking to establish their careers in the region. We work intensively with expat spouses to help them develop the following skills with a particular focus on the Swiss and Liechtenstein job market, ideally with a focus on German-speaking cantons.

  • Planning your job search and finding your top 20 companies
  • Building and maintaining a professional network in Switzerland
  • Refining your brand
  • Improving and having a professional presence online (LinkedIn)
  • Writing effective Letters of Motivation
  • Pitching in Elevators
  • Learning the art of storytelling in interviews
  • Improving business stories
  • Deepen an understanding of personal values
  • Improving executive presence in interviews
  • Setting weekly targets at a healthy, realistic pace
  • Styling job applications to Swiss recruitment practices
  • Reviewing of offer letters and benefits

The program follows Angie Weinberger’s Global Career Workbook and has been updated repeatedly. You might want to buy the book before committing.

 

The Global Career Workbook

The Global Career Workbook

Help Your Spouse Adjust to the Host Country – Five Key Principles

Help Your Spouse Adjust to the Host Country – Five Key Principles

Benefits of Spouse or “Plus One” – Communities in Global Mobility

Benefits of Spouse or “Plus One” – Communities in Global Mobility

Eight Major Barriers to Expat Spouse Employment

Eight Major Barriers to Expat Spouse Employment

Get the Recruiter’s Attention with a Swiss Cover Letter

 

What is an Expat Coach?

Angie Weinberger

Let’s dive into the basics of what an expat coach actually does and how this is different from a “normal” coach. Expat coaches have a specific, usually intercultural background and experience that helps them relate to their client’s journeys better. Here are a few examples.

1 – Understand Expatriate Challenges and Pain Points

An expat coach is trained and experienced in understanding the specific challenges faced by individuals living, working, or studying abroad. These challenges may include cultural adjustment, language barriers, homesickness, career transitions, cross-cultural relationships, and identity issues.

The Global Rockstar Album

 

2 – Develop Your Global Competency

Expat coaches have a deep understanding of different cultures and cultural dynamics. They can help clients navigate cultural differences, develop cultural competence, and adapt their behavior and communication styles to thrive in a multicultural environment. I have developed the Global Competency Model and created a Personal Development Plan that can be used via our RockMeApp.

How to Develop Your Global Competency as a Nomad

 

RockMeApp for Human Touch
RockMeApp for Human Touch

3 – Understand How to Give Relocation Support in Your Host City

Expat coaches provide support and guidance to individuals and families before, during, and after relocation. They help clients prepare for the challenges of moving to a new country, make informed decisions, and effectively manage the transition process. We often connect our clients to relocation experts and other Subject Matter Experts in Zurich, so building a good network is vital.

Moving to Zurich, Switzerland – First Things First 

5 – Help Through Career Transition and Development

Expat coaches assist clients in exploring career opportunities abroad, leveraging their skills and experiences in an international context, and overcoming career-related challenges such as job search, networking, and professional development in a new cultural environment. We have offered a career transition program for Expat Spouses for over ten years and coached hundreds of expats in finding a job. The HireMeExpress program is a typical career program for expats.

Land Your First Job in Zurich with HireMeExpress

HireMeExpress helps you to navigate the Swiss job market.

6 – Understand the Basics of Mental Health and Well-being

Expat coaches focus on their clients’ holistic well-being, addressing career-related concerns and personal and emotional challenges associated with expatriate life. They help clients build resilience, cope with stress, enhance self-awareness, and develop personal growth and fulfillment strategies. We are offering webinars, workshops and the RockMeRetreat as a format for supporting expats with their mental health and wellbeing.

My Red Couch Talk with Pragati Siddhanti

How to Maintain Mental Wellbeing as an Expat

Expat Mental Health – Getting Out of the Valley of Tears

Expat Mental Health – Getting Out of the Valley of Tears

7 – Become an Expert in Cross-Cultural Communication

Expat coaches provide cross-cultural coaching to help clients navigate cultural differences and develop intercultural competence. They facilitate cultural awareness, sensitivity, and effective communication across cultural boundaries. Expat coaches know of international resources, networks, and support services that can assist clients in accessing information, assistance, and community resources specific to their needs as expatriates.

While the skills and techniques used by expat coaches may overlap with those of other types of coaches, their specialization in expatriate issues and understanding of cross-cultural dynamics distinguish them from “normal” coaches. This specialization enables expat coaches to provide tailored support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of living and working abroad.

Join our Global People Club

Also, check out this post and sign up for our Global People Club to get an update on our upcoming program and workbook for aspiring expat coaches. Please email us at angela@globalpeopletransitions.com if you want to speak.

 

Starting a Business as an Expat Coach – Seven Steps

Eight Major Barriers to Expat Spouse Employment

Expat Spouse employment Bringing the family on board in global mobility Expat Family Support

For a while we have watched the major barriers to Expat Spouse Employment in Global Mobility. We thought we should pull together the main reasons, according to our experience, that hinder Expat Spouse employment in the host country. We also wanted to give those of you struggling with the decision of whether following your partner to another country is the right step for you. So, here is, first of all, a quick support video for you, and a deeper analysis follows. It’s advisable to seek a consultation if you are currently deciding about moving abroad for work.

 

Global Mobility providers and academics often research how family impacts “expatriate failure”. In my view, this is not enough. We should investigate how we can bring down the barriers to Expat Spouse employment. Why is it so difficult for Expat Spouses to find work in the host country? Here is a short analysis of the issues. Before getting too frustrated please check out our Expat Spouse Career Program Zurich Switzerland HireMeExpress.

1 – Work Permit Restrictions

Finding a job is not as straightforward for many of my clients as it is in their home countries. Even if most top host locations allow Expat Spouses to work on the partner’s dependent work permit, other countries present significant restrictions to Expat Spouse employment. In fact, while some of them do not issue work permits to any Expat Spouses at all, others may present subtleties linked to marital status or they might not recognize same-sex marriages.

2 – Host Language Skills

Even though the expat might work for a global company, most jobs in the host country will require host language skills. Unless you move from the UK to the USA, you often will not have the language skills required to work in the host country. It’s important that you don’t underestimate this aspect and that you start learning the local language as soon as possible, ideally before relocating. The good news is that almost two-thirds of employers already provide this as the main form of assistance (Permits Foundation, 2012). If there is a business need, companies generally pay for a 60-hour course also for the Expat spouse. However, 60 hours is not a lot and for working in another language a basic course will not be sufficient. There are specific job search engines that filter for English-speaking roles. If you are looking to find employment in the Swiss job market, you can look up www.englishforum.ch.

3- Recognition of University Degrees in Regulated Fields and Non-Regulated Fields

While within the EU we can assume that university degrees will be recognized due to the common job market, a Brazilian doctor cannot work in a hospital in Switzerland. We call this a “regulated profession”. In the best-case scenario, you will need to go through a considerable amount of bureaucracy to get your degree converted, and this may cost you a good amount of money. In the worst-case scenario, however, if you want to keep practicing your profession, you will have to get complementary certificates in the host country. Even in non-regulated fields and jobs it seems very hard to translate degrees and determine equivalency. Very often you need to explain what your degree and experience mean in “lay terms.”

4 – Professional Networks

Another issue is the lack of a professional network, which gives access to the untapped and informal labor market in the host country. Often you can only join professional associations when you are in a corporate role or when you have graduated in the country. Building your professional network in your host country will require time and trust. You will have to start from scratch and dedicate a considerable amount of time to this activity if you want to see good results. You will also need to understand that matters of trust and relationships are culturally different, so it’s important that you act in a culturally appropriate manner when attempting to expand your professional network.

5 – Global Mobility Policy

Only very forward-thinking global mobility and global recruiting policies address the need for support for “trailing” dual career partners. While ten years ago dual-career issues on international assignments were solved by sticking to classical Western nuclear “family” models, we now want to adhere to the needs of dual careers, patchwork families, Eastern “family” models, same-sex partners, and unmarried de-facto relationships. Visionary Global Mobility policies address various support models ranging from providing a lump sum to spousal career coaching. As an intercultural career advisor, I also work with clients who decide to start a global, transferable business so that they can follow their life partner to other locations and become location-independent. Thanks to technology I can support clients in NYC as well as in Mumbai. We also support candidates to improve their personal branding in the host market, learn to network effectively and improve their interview skills and online presentations. But it’s crucial that Global Mobility Leaders update their policies and promote spouse support services rather than pay lump sums.

6 – Intercultural Bias of Our Recruiters

Our recruiters often do not understand intercultural differences. Recruiters often don’t understand resumes from other countries and outsourcing talent specialists to HR-shared service centers has not improved the chances of “foreign” candidates in the recruitment process. Most selection methods and assessments are culturally biased. For example, in Switzerland, psychometric testing and other assessments of candidates are used to assess candidates next to interviews. Riedel (2015) shows examples where highly skilled candidates from China fell through the assessment roster in a German company because of their indirect communication style. Companies should provide training on Inclusion and Diversity in an attempt to eliminate unconscious biases and ensure all worthy candidates are being considered for global mobility. This practice is not yet spread. According to KPMG, 39% of employees surveyed aren’t aware of inclusive leadership training within their organizations.

7 – Unconscious Bias of Sending Home Sponsors

PwC issued a study in 2016 on female expatriation where it appears very obvious that a lot more women would be interested in an international assignment than the ones that are actually sent. As a matter of fact, some types of assignments (like short-term, very short-term, and fly-in and out commuter assignments) are notably more popular among women than among men. If women make up 20% only (PwC, 2016) of the internationally mobile population across all sectors, it’s probably due to the unconscious bias of the sending-home sponsors who assume a female manager is not mobile even though she might have mentioned it several times. I speak from experience. If you want to guarantee that the selection of women and other underrepresented groups is fair and objective, you need to measure the relative inclusiveness of mobility assignments and ensure policies on equal access are working. If you find out they are not working, intervene as soon as possible.

8 – Research to Measure the Impact of Dual-Career Programs

In 2012, ETH Zurich conducted extensive research with several European universities on barriers to dual careers within the EU and EFTA countries. For most companies (NetExpat & EY, 2018; Atlas World Group, 2019) the presence of dual-career couples negatively affects the decision to relocate. There’s more: the spouse’s unwillingness to move because of his or her career is the first reason for turning down relocation. After all, it’s 2020, and the increasing number of households relying on two salaries should not surprise us. While in the past, small firms were relatively less affected by spouse/partner’s employment than medium and big firms, in more recent times, the impact has been similar across company sizes. There is evidently still a lot to do in order to integrate the needs of dual-career couples in the expatriation process. If you want to keep pace with reality and stand out with a far-reaching Global Mobility policy, please keep this issue a top priority. 

On the receiving end, I can report that more and more expat spouses are male. There is hope. If you want to see how all these work in practice and would like to receive a proposal from us, please drop a line to Angie Weinberger (angela@globalpeopletransitions.com). I am happy to support you!

Further Readings: 

https://www.sirva.com/learning-center/blog/2019/12/20/supporting-accompanying-spouses-partners-during-relocation

Why Building Professional Relationships is Harder for You

The Swiss Summer Slump – ​​A Ten Step Plan to Make the Most of the Summer Downtime

Summer Feeling

The Swiss Summer Slump is around the corner. From mid-July to mid-August, Switzerland seems to fall asleep. Despite the recession and terminations of contracts in the banking and IT sector, I expect the “Swiss Summer Slump” very soon. Decision-makers aren’t around to take interviews, and your chances of finding a job over the summer holidays are usually lower than in busy times. So, if you haven’t signed a contract by now, I bet you won’t sign one within the next four weeks. If you prove me wrong, I invite you to a Margherita and a Margarita (M&M). The challenge is on.

With the start of international and Swiss school holidays, you notice fewer people on the trains, and motivation to work is generally lower than usual. This is when to take overtime compensation, go home at decent hours, and leave the country for a while. It’s also time to jump into a lake near you every evening after work. Let’s pull out the deck chair, parasol, and sunscreen and just relax with a Margherita and a Margarita (M&M).

Nooo, my friend. You won’t get out that easily.

1 – Learn About the Cost of Margherita and Margarita in Zurich

If you have lived in Zurich for a while, you probably know by now that the price of a Pizza Margherita (note the different spelling) is around 18 CHF. A Margarita drink costs approximately 18 CHF. (And if you are like me, we never stop at one Margarita when we have a good time). So, on a “normal” fun night with the girls, you could easily spend 90 CHF. (I must explain that because many people cannot relate to our price levels.). As long as you have a job, you probably do not mind spending this money on a good night out. 

If you are currently unemployed, trying to launch your brand, or have just been given notice and are not profiting from the RAV (Swiss Unemployment Office) financial support, I would like to help you save money and bring in an income to your family again quickly. (You might remember our advent calendar for ideas on how to make money in December on Insta https://www.instagram.com/angie_weinberger/)

Summer Feeling

2 – Check the Job Market

Contract-to-hire positions are abundant during the summer season, and many job-seekers decide to take the summer off, which is a considerable advantage if you keep job hunting. There is another factor that is encouraging this year: Swiss businesses, despite all their efforts, can’t manage to hire all the needed workers. In the two decades before the COVID-19 shock, Switzerland demonstrated a commendable development history, with an average annual GDP growth rate of +2%. Switzerland’s unemployment rate is continuously low, and you might still have a hard time finding a job because you do not understand how this market works. It’s one of the most competitive job markets in the world, and you need to learn how to work there.

Check out my new guide on “How to land a Job as a Foreigner in Zurich” by signing up here:

If you are a hiring manager and you struggle to find the suitable candidates, we should talk. I have ideas for you, too.

Checklist 285: How You Can Help Others Find a Job in Zurich, Switzerland

Handout 286 Writing Inclusive Job Postings

3 – Find a Last-Minute Job

These exceptional circumstances might help you find a new job in the next few months. Due to the significant shifts in the labor market landscape since the Pandemic, many workers want to change careers. That, in turn, creates thousands of job openings. , mainly in the industry and service sectors. As a result, staff shortages have reached record levels.

“In the 1st quarter of 2024, the total employment (number of jobs) in Switzerland rose by 1.8% compared with the same quarter of the previous year (seasonally adjusted, +0.6% over the previous quarter). Calculated in full-time equivalents, this was an increase in jobs of 1.4%. Companies reported 12,300 (‒9.7%) fewer job vacancies than a year earlier. Despite a cautious assessment, the employment outlook indicator remains positive. These are the latest figures from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).” 

Employment barometer in 1st quarter 2024 | Press release | Federal Statistical Office

If you are seeking a job, you may need to catch up on the game (instead of watching soccer). The most common reaction I see from clients is to stop all efforts over the summer. But, of course, doing this would be counterproductive; you can use this time for your job search and business development by following our M&M Plan for finding a job and launching your brand in Zurich.

Barbie
Barbie

4 – Follow the HireMeExpress Online Course and Work the Summer Schedule

Commit to a schedule by working with us via the HireMeExpress online course. It contains 12 PLUS three weeks of intense preparation to prepare you for the job market. We give you the videos, templates, weekly summary, and homework for the HireMeExpress program. You can start anytime. We offer this online course at an M&M Plan of 37 CHF during the Swiss Summer Slump and hope it will help you stay motivated and on track. 

We also encourage you to plan your time to spend more time outside (you know you will need that extra vitamin D in a few months!). Starting this week, we recommend you work on a unique “M&M Summer Schedule” from 7 AM to 2 PM, as I do. Then, you can spend the rest of the day in the “Badi” of your choice, reading, listening to podcasts, and enjoying life! 

To help you not cringe at the thought of paying 37 CHF for an online course, I have tried and tested this recipe for a perfect summer pizza without yeast: https://www.smarticular.net/pizzateig-ohne-hefe-rezept-selber-machen-vegan/amp/. Here is the recipe for the “Classic Margarita”: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/tequila-classic-margarita. Now you just saved 37 CHF that you can easily spend on finding a job that will give you safety, a place to hang out and constant learning opportunities.

Red couch talk
“Style has nothing to do with size…”

5 – Buy a new Power Suit

So, now that you are saving money as you learn to make your pizzas and cocktails consider making a short-term investment. Women need to get better at financial management, and I am here to guide you because I have made mistakes that have cost me a lot of money. 

However, one strategy always works for me: The #PowerSuit. You will need a new power suit for that interview or business meeting. So get yourself an excellent new suit, signature piece, or basics from Adam Brody in Zurich. Adam Brody is happy to consult you on your style as well. Let him know I’ve sent you there (“Angie”). 

6 – Enjoy a Beauty Ritual or Wellness Massage

Another short-term investment in the M & M Plan is that you plan time to pamper yourself. Georgina Georgiu runs an English-speaking day spa in Zurich. The Pure Beauty Spa team is highly professional, and the products are excellent. You will get 20% off your first treatment when you mention “Angie” in your booking. 

Alternatively, book a massage with Stephanie Suter at Din Momänt. Mention “Angie”. You won’t get a discount, but I will potentially win a new partner. 🙂

7 – Have Your Headshot Taken

Consider revisiting why a personal brand is essential. If you are looking for a photographer, we recommend Carmen Sirboiu. All our members and clients are eligible for a unique discount for a Premium LinkedIn and Personal Branding photo session with Carmen. Using the code ‘’Global People,’’ you get the session at the Special Price of 180 CHF (value 250 CHF). 

https://carmen.photo/personal-branding-zurich/

8 – Build More Professional Relationships

Summer is an excellent time to build new relationships and catch up with current contacts. Most busy people might feel less pressure than usual. Encourage them to enjoy the nice weather and spend time outside. So why don’t you take them for ice cream in the sunshine after work? Why don’t you request an early morning walk by the lake while enjoying a cold coffee? A personalized request is vital here. Remember the strategies we teach in our workshops or read the book “Networking for Nerds” or “Give and Take.” Or, you can buy my book “The Global Career Workbook” https://www.angieweinberger.ch/the-global-career-workbook/

9 – Practice German and Prepare for an Exam

You have now been in Switzerland long enough to have at least started with German lessons. Ensure you have one exam in your pocket and the certificate in your application file. While the summer is a great time to enjoy your time off, it also has rainy days. Work with Yvonne Herrmann-Teubel for a trial class and work on your German. 

10 – Enjoy a Holiday or Home Leave with Your Family

Summer is also the best time to be away from Switzerland. You will probably be able to catch up, and in emergencies, companies or prospects could also talk to you by video call. Charge your batteries and leave the city for at least two weeks. This is also the best time to go on extended home leave and see your extended family members, high school friends, and everyone else you have neglected over the last six months in your protestant Swiss lifestyle. 

You can buy the HireMeExpress online program by emailing angela@globalpeopletransitions.com. We will release the course as soon as we receive your payment. Please also ask me for my special 2024 deal and book a first meeting to discuss how I could help you.

angie weinberger on the red couch
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