Cover letter in Switzerland: the ultimate guide

Why the cover letter still matters in Switzerland

Unlike other markets where a CV alone may suffice, Swiss recruiters expect a personalised cover letter. It is your opportunity to demonstrate your motivation, your knowledge of the company, and your cultural fit.

An application without a cover letter will often be considered incomplete or careless, particularly for qualified positions.

The ideal structure

A Swiss cover letter generally follows a four-paragraph structure: an opening hook, your background and skills, your motivation for joining the company, and a conclusion with a call to action.

The ideal length is one A4 page, with a clean and professional layout.

• Header: your contact details, the company's details, date, subject line
• Paragraph 1: a compelling opening (why you are applying)
• Paragraph 2: your relevant skills and achievements
• Paragraph 3: why this company, this culture, this project
• Paragraph 4: conclusion and availability for an interview
• Closing formula and signature

The opening: capture attention

The first lines are crucial. Avoid clichéd phrases such as "I am writing to apply for..." or "Further to your advertisement...". Be original and impactful.

Start with what genuinely motivates you, a relevant achievement, or a personal connection to the company or its sector.

Showcasing your skills

Do not simply repeat your CV. Select two or three experiences or skills that are particularly relevant to the role and elaborate on them.

Use concrete examples and quantified results to illustrate the value you would bring.

Demonstrating your knowledge of the company

This is your opportunity to show that you have done your research. Mention specific elements: a recent project, a company value that resonates with you, or a notable piece of news.

Explain why you want to join this particular company, rather than simply describing it as "a leading player in the sector".

The conclusion and call to action

Close on a positive and proactive note. Express your enthusiasm for an interview and your availability.

Avoid passive phrasing. "I remain at your disposal" is less impactful than "I would be delighted to discuss my application further with you at an interview."

Mistakes to avoid

Certain mistakes can immediately disqualify your application. Be vigilant on the following points.

• A generic, non-personalised letter (including the wrong company name!)
• Spelling or grammatical errors
• A letter that is too long (more than one page)
• A tone that is either too casual or, conversely, overly pompous
• Focusing on your own needs rather than on the value you bring
• Forgetting your contact details or signature

Conclusion

A well-written cover letter can transform an average application into a standout one. Take the time to tailor it for each role and each company. Combined with an optimised CV, it will maximise your chances of securing the interview you are aiming for.