When I first started coaching expats in Switzerland, I kept hearing the same frustrations:
“Why does my boss expect me to figure things out alone?” “Why don’t my colleagues make small talk?” “Why does feedback feel so… blunt?”
Swiss workplaces can feel efficient but distant. That’s because here, autonomy isn’t just encouraged—it’s expected. Managers trust you to be competent. If you need help, they assume you’ll ask. Teamwork often means working independently toward a shared goal, not constant collaboration. And while people are polite, personal conversations stay personal until real trust is built.
If you’re used to a more collaborative or chatty work environment, this can feel isolating. But instead of resisting it, let’s shift perspectives using the Lotus Mindset Technique—a way to stay adaptable, open, and grounded in new environments.
@Advanced Talent
The Lotus Mindset for Navigating Swiss Work Culture
Think of a lotus flower. It thrives in all kinds of waters—calm, murky, fast-moving—by adapting to its surroundings while staying rooted in its core. The same applies here.
1️⃣ Observe, Don’t Judge. Instead of labeling Swiss work culture as “cold” or “rigid,” see it as different. Pay attention to how colleagues interact. What’s unspoken? What’s valued? Let curiosity replace frustration.
2️⃣ Adapt, but Stay You. One of the best things about Swiss culture is it rewards efficiency and directness. So match that—but in a way that feels natural. If you thrive on teamwork, take initiative in organizing discussions instead of waiting for them to happen.
3️⃣ Ground Yourself in Confidence. The Swiss respect competence. Show your expertise through action, not just words. Be proactive in problem-solving and clear in communication. The more you own your space, the easier relationships will build over time.
More Practical Tips
✅ Take initiative, ask specific questions, and avoid waiting for step-by-step instructions.
✅ Being too indirect or overly polite can be seen as vague. Keep in mind that clarity equals efficiency.
✅ Respect professional boundaries. Small talk comes later so don’t overthink it. For now, let your work build credibility.
Adjusting to a new work culture takes time. But like the lotus, the more adaptable and open you are, the easier it becomes to thrive.
Have you ever felt culture shock at work? Reply and share your experience!
@Advanced Talent
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To your career success,
Adelina Stefan
Founder of Advanced Talent LLC
PCC-ICF Coach & Mentor | MBA, MA
Senior Intercultural Career & Transformational Master Coach