Switzerland steals top spot for careers

Zurich, Switzerland Photo: Richigrafik

Switzerland has stolen the top spot in a survey comparing career prospects around the world.

The country is ranked as the best in terms of both working culture and job security, not to mention salaries, according to HSBC's latest Expat Explorer study.

65 per cent of expats in the country said the country offered better salaries than in their home country, with more than half (53 per cent) praising the Swiss working culture 43 per cent saying they feel more secure in their jobs.

"With a strong currency, powerful labour market and booming export industry, Switzerland’s economy has remained stable throughout wider Eurozone volatility. The country offers expats very high earning potential in a diverse and satisfying working environment," reads the lender's report.

"Switzerland’s business friendly legislation, economic stability and highly educated workforce all contribute to its popularity as an expat destination."

Switzerland was followed by Sweden, Germany, Russia and Singapore in the wcareer rankings, with the top 10 completed by the UAE, Bahrain, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and the USA.

Expats in Sweden reported the best work/life balance out of all countries in the world, with 72 per cent saying they had a better balance living there than in their home country.

Europe in general boasted the best job security of any region, with four of the top five (Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands and France) all located in the continent.

The Middle East led the way for benefits packages and strong earning prospects, while Asian countries scored well for career development.

"Career success means different things to different people. It can be about rapid development and pay rises, or working in a job which challenges you. Others move abroad in search of more fulfilling work or to just find a better balance between work and life," says Dean Blackburn, head of HSBC Expat.