There are four official languages that are widely used in Switzerland, namely German, French, Italian, and Romansh. However, the most commonly used among the entire population is Swiss German, which is spoken by at least 63% of the population. Don’t worry just yet if you don’t know any of the mentioned languages. Swiss people are said to be highly proficient in English too. According to their EF English Proficiency Index, they ranked 18 among 100 other countries in their region. Two thirds of the Swiss population perfectly understands and speaks English, so you would probably go around without having to worry about language barriers

Language Skills
It would be safe to say that you can get around Switzerland with just your English skills, however, it can also be helpful to learn a little about their language too. Should you wish to learn Swiss German, French, or Italian you may want to take free courses that are available via Pimsleur or Fluentu.

In greeting your counterparts, although your English greetings may work, try these simple Swiss German greetings to create instant connection with locals. When greeting a single person formally, you can try to say “Grüetzi,” which actually means ‘hello.’ When greeting a group of people, you should say “Grüetzi Mittenand,” or ‘hello everyone.’ However, when you’re in an informal setting, try saying ‘Sali’ for one person and “Sali Zämme” for a group of people. There are more ways to greet people in Swiss German, and it’s important to know exactly how it’s being pronounced. To hear the exact pronunciation of the mentioned greetings and to learn more ways to greet and say your goodbyes to counterparts, check out this tutorial video.

Body Language
One common and acceptable gesture in Swiss greetings is a handshake. May it be in business or social gatherings, shake hands with everyone present - men, women, and even children you meet for the first time. It is also customary to maintain good posture when in communication with someone. That being said, avoid slouching or stretching in public as it may be frowned upon.

When dining with your counterparts, keep your elbows always from the table. Should you find the need to call in a waiter, call them by saying “Herr Ober” for male and “Fräulein” for waitress. Avoid waving your hands to call in waiters as this is considered rude in restaurants.

When dining, the host would usually be the one who proposes the first toast, until then don’t drink until the proposed toast is over. It is also customary that as much as possible, you break bread using your hands and not with knives. Finally if you are offered with food, always get a sample of each that is offered to you.

Another body expression you should avoid doing is pointing your index finger to your forehead, this will be considered an insult. Also, when pointing at something, use your whole hand instead of just your index finger. Always maintain eye contact when shaking hands, and most especially when engaging in a conversation.

Topics for Discussion
Swiss people are generally easy going when it comes to conversations. If you want to make an initial engagement with your counterparts, bringing in topics such as the quality of distinct Swiss products is a good start. Read about and compliment the uniqueness of watches made in Switzerland and the good local taste of Swiss chocolate. You’ll definitely get free tips on where to access these from a local you talk to as well.

While the locals take pride in export-quality products, they are also very much interested in world affairs. Don’t skip mentioning international current events that may be happening within Europe and other western countries. You may also mention your international experiences that came along with your travels all over the world. This will truly delight a local during a conversation.

Another topic you can bring on the table is about winter sports. Although they may also be interested in any other type of sports, the likes of skiing , snowboarding, tobogganing, ski gliding, and more are very close to the heart of a local. Ask for the best places to go within the country to try these sports and don’t forget to read about people in their country who might be well-known in the said sports.

Several topics to avoid talking about in the country are personal issues about family and personal questions about relationships, work, salary, and religion. Might as well skip topics that dig too much about a local’s life. Should a local himself tell a sad story, avoid back patting or putting your hands in your pocket to imply your own reservations about the topic. Finally, during business meetings, avoid criticizing or setting an atmosphere of conversation where you are already belittling a local. Always maintain your tone and do not raise your voice during conversations, and be polite to always allow a person to finish sentences first before stating your point.