Networks and Organizations

Active networking is a central component of job hunting. Before choosing the network you want to join, consider which of your qualifications you could contribute and what kind of network would serve your purpose. Networks can be formed via social media (e.g. LinkedIn, XING), associations, clubs, alumni associations, former work contacts or from your personal environment.

Seek out people from the professional field you want to work in, ask about their work, the functional areas in the company or the required core skills – most people are pleased when others show interest in their work and are happy to share information. In many cases, these conversations lead to other contacts; ideally, you may even hear about a vacancy. Below you will find some links to networks, associations and organizations.

Business networks
zurich.impacthub.ch – Community of innovative start-ups, large companies and creative people; co-working, peer-to-peer learning and networking
greenbuzz.global/zurich – Connecting Professionals for Sustainability; volunteer-driven NPO
cofoundme.org – Matching skills with ideas; open positions, become an entrepreneur or get matched to start-ups, post your ideas
singaswitzerland.ch – SINGA Factory connects incomings who want to create a business, a project or a community 
networking-for-jobs.ch – Mentoring, networking and advice for highly qualified incomings
IDCN – International Dual Career Network

Social networks
meetup.com – Community platform
internations.org – Connect with fellow expats in Zurich, get useful information and join events & groups
www.ziwa.com – Zurich International Women's Association

Professional Women's Associations
pwg-zh.com – Zurich's professional women's group
pwnzugzurich.net – Professional women's network Zug & Zurich
bpw-zuerich.ch (de) – Business & Professional Women's Club Zurich
ffu-pee.ch (de, fr) – Female environmental experts
svin.ch (de, fr) – Swiss association of female engineers
wirtschaftsfrauen.ch (de) – Swiss association of business women
gendercampus.ch – Platform for Gender Studies, Equality and Diversity at Swiss Universities

Industry associations

Industry associations are also good starting points to form an impression of the companies in a particular industry and to look for interesting contacts. The addresses of most Swiss companies are listed on the website of their association, usually under the «Members» section. A list of the largest industry associations can be found in the «Swiss industry associations» teaser.