The majority of jobseekers across Switzerland ultimately found their jobs through traditional channels, such as job boards, rather than via social media. However, social media was a key driver at the beginning of their search and played a role in their choice of employer, according to the latest Candidate Pulse Study 2023 from Michael Page. 

Social media has replaced some initial parts of the job search process, but candidates are selective in its use. Typically, candidates started their job search on social media platforms for two key reasons: Two thirds of respondents believed that many job offers appeared exclusively on social media sites, while 61% advised that recruiters had made the initial contact via social media.  

The rest of the recruitment process, from interviews to selection, ultimately took place on a face-to-face basis with recruiters, HR and business managers. 

LinkedIn was, by far, the most important social media job search channel with 80% of respondents saying they used it for job searches. Half of the respondents checked such channels daily – often several times a day. 

The study also found that employees play a significant role in influencing potential candidates. Most respondents (74%) checked the social media profiles of employees before deciding to accept a position. At the same time, 69% agreed that it was OK for potential employers to check their social media profiles as part of the recruitment process. 

Furthermore, 90% advised that they always checked employer websites before accepting jobs. The majority said that an employer’s website had an impact: In 44% of cases, it helped candidates decide in favour of a company and in 21% against it, while 71% responded that they would not accept a job with a company that did not have a social media presence. 

The preferred formats for learning about a potential employer were articles (79%), followed by short videos (less than a minute, 63%) and infographics (58%). Business updates were also important as they provide candidates with information about the company’s potential for growth and career development. 

“These findings highlight the importance of having a strong network, both professionally and amongst recruiters,” said Yannick Coulange, managing director, PageGroup Switzerland. “They also reinforce the need for employers to authentically harness the potential of their workforce and digital platforms to help attract talent.”