What is the net forecast for employment in Switzerland according to Manpower?

The net employment forecast stands at +19, reflecting a one-point increase from the previous quarter. This value places Switzerland well below the global average, with a gap of 7 points, confirming a climate of prudence among Swiss employers.

Are Swiss companies willing to pay more for AI skills?

Yes, 56% of employers said they are willing to offer a salary supplement for AI-related skills. In large companies with over 250 employees, this percentage rises to 66%, highlighting a strong demand for profiles specialised in the digital field.

Why do SMEs struggle to adopt AI according to Manpower?

Manpower raises the doubt that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may not attribute the same strategic importance to artificial intelligence as large companies, or may find it difficult to find the economic resources necessary to value these skills profitably.

Recruitment in Switzerland: intentions at a 5-year low (cross-border guide)

Di Redazione Frontaliere Ticino · Published on 11 August 2026

Employees working in a modern Swiss office

The Manpower survey has a net forecast of +19. Interest in AI skills is growing, but SMEs are struggling to invest in digital.

Context

In brief

Net employment outlook steady at +19.
Hiring levels at a five-year low.
Growing demand for AI skills and soft skills.
SMEs lagging behind large companies.

Key facts

What: Net employment outlook survey.
When: Latest quarter reported by Manpower.
Where: Switzerland.
Who: Manpower.
Amount: Net outlook +19.
Percentage: 56% of employers willing to pay premiums for AI skills.

Swiss companies are facing a period of marked caution in their recruitment strategies, with hiring intentions at their lowest levels in the last five years. According to the periodic analysis conducted by Manpower, a leading multinational in the human resources sector, the so-called 'net employment outlook' has reached +19. This indicator, calculated as the difference between companies intending to increase staff and those planning a reduction, marks a slight progress of just one point compared to the previous quarter. The Swiss figure is positioned significantly below the global average, highlighting a 7-percentage-point gap.

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Operational details

The labor market is undergoing a phase of profound transformation where the value of digital skills and so-called 'soft skills' is becoming a decisive factor for remuneration. 56% of the companies surveyed confirmed their willingness to offer a salary supplement for specific skills related to artificial intelligence. This trend is even more pronounced in large enterprises with over 250 employees, where the propensity to invest financially in these abilities rises to 66%. The divergence between large companies and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) raises critical questions regarding the competitiveness of the Swiss business landscape. While large, structured organizations are able to integrate AI into their production processes, SMEs seem to face greater difficulties, due both to a different perception of the importance of this technology and to the limited availability of financial resources to allocate to training or the acquisition of specialized talent.

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Key points

To navigate a cautious labor market effectively, it is essential to adopt a methodical approach to searching for and leveraging your skills. The recommended procedure for those seeking new opportunities begins with a detailed analysis of the skills required in your target sector. Since companies are investing selectively, it is necessary to align your resume with new technological demands, particularly in the field of AI. Do not limit yourself to searching for vacancies; instead, target positions where your digital skills can offer immediate added value. Regarding career management, it is advisable to regularly consult updated salary data and market trends, using reliable resources that allow for a realistic assessment of your economic situation. If you have doubts about your contribution status or want to understand how social security and pension contributions, such as the LPP or AVS, affect your net income, use the financial analysis tools available online.

Recommended Career Steps

1. Skills Analysis: verify which digital skills are required in your professional field. 2. Professional Development: evaluate specific training courses on AI and digitalization. 3. Market Monitoring: keep track of hiring companies and expanding sectors. 4. Salary Verification: compare your current salary package with market data to see if your profile requires an adjustment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the net forecast for employment in Switzerland according to Manpower?: The net employment forecast stands at +19, reflecting a one-point increase from the previous quarter. This value places Switzerland well below the global average, with a gap of 7 points, confirming a climate of prudence among Swiss employers.
Are Swiss companies willing to pay more for AI skills?: Yes, 56% of employers said they are willing to offer a salary supplement for AI-related skills. In large companies with over 250 employees, this percentage rises to 66%, highlighting a strong demand for profiles specialised in the digital field.
Why do SMEs struggle to adopt AI according to Manpower?: Manpower raises the doubt that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may not attribute the same strategic importance to artificial intelligence as large companies, or may find it difficult to find the economic resources necessary to value these skills profitably.