It’s not the market, your CV, or even AI – the real reason runs deeper
After 27 years in recruitment and career coaching here in Lausanne, Switzerland, I’ve seen just about every excuse for why someone isn’t landing a job. The economy. Age. Their CV. AI. A lack of upskilling. I’ve heard it all. But when I sit across from candidates—whether Gen Z graduates, mid-career professionals, or senior leaders—the same truth keeps coming back.
The main reason people struggle to find work is not the job market, their qualifications, or even the rise of technology. It comes down to one thing: attitude.
Defining “Attitude”: What it really means in the job search
To make sure we’re all aligned on what I mean by “attitude”—especially for those in French-speaking regions of Switzerland where the term “attitude” (or “attitude professionnelle”) often emphasizes observable behavior and conduct rather than just internal feelings—let’s clarify it here. In the professional context, attitude refers to your overall mindset, beliefs, and feelings about work, which directly influence your actions and interactions. It’s a settled way of thinking that shows up in how you approach challenges, commit to your role, and engage with teams. Think of it as a blend of your “état d’esprit” (mindset) and “comportement” (behavior): not just what you feel inside, but how it manifests outwardly.
For example, a proactive attitude might mean viewing a job rejection as a learning opportunity and following up with the recruiter for feedback, rather than ghosting or complaining. On the flip side, an entitled attitude could appear as focusing solely on salary demands during an interview without highlighting your contributions, or reacting defensively when asked about past challenges. In essence, it’s the internal drive that shapes your external professionalism, making you either a standout candidate or one that’s easily overlooked.
What I see every day: entitlement instead of contribution
At Jobprofile, where we coach and guide professionals through every stage of their careers, I see a pattern repeat itself. Too many candidates lead with what they want—flexibility, perks, salary—rather than with what they can contribute.
That mindset doesn’t work anymore. Companies, pressured by talent shortages and supported by AI-driven HR tools, can now measure competence with precision. They’re not impressed by vague promises or borrowed achievements. They want proof: what you delivered, how you did it, and the value it created.
If you can’t show hands-on results—numbers, impact, expertise—you’ll be overlooked. Employers no longer gamble on potential wrapped in entitlement. They’re hiring for contribution, not comfort.
Why attitude matters more than ever
Let’s look at the data. Switzerland’s employment rate is one of the highest in Europe, at around 80%. Even with vacancies down by 3% in Q2 2025, more than 250,000 roles are expected to open in IT, healthcare, and engineering by next year. The opportunities are there.
But employers consistently say the same thing: attitude trumps everything. In entry-level roles, managers choose candidates with the right mindset over the ones with the best technical skills. Why? Because skills can be taught. Attitude can’t—at least not easily.
And here’s the cultural nuance many forget. Swiss work culture prizes efficiency, reliability, and respect. Overconfidence or entitlement, even unintentional, clashes with these values. It shows up in interviews, in emails, even in LinkedIn profiles. And it quietly kills your chances.
This emphasis on attitude isn’t unique to Switzerland
For instance, Workday CEO Carl Eschenbach, leading a $62 billion HR tech giant, recently advised Gen Z that career success won’t stem from chasing titles or padding resumes, but from a mindset shift toward serving others. He stresses doubling down on attitude, authenticity, and relationships to thrive amid AI disruptions and economic challenges.
“The attitude that you bring… is what ultimately will determine a lot of your success,” Eschenbach said, adding, “Your altitude in life is completely determined by your attitude in life.”
This draws from Amazon CEO Andy Jassy’s playbook, who noted that “an embarrassing amount of how well you do, particularly in your twenties, has to do with attitude,” as it’s controllable and attracts mentors. In an AI-era where job automation looms, Eschenbach urges embracing technology while focusing on humility and networks for lasting impact.
Generational shifts, same core truth
When I started in recruitment nearly 30 years ago, jobs were viewed as commitments—both to the employer and to personal growth. Today, we talk more about balance, hybrid work, and flexibility. I welcome that shift. But balance doesn’t erase responsibility. A job is still a commitment.
Whether you’re a Gen Xer feeling sidelined, or a younger professional navigating AI’s impact on work, the same rule applies: your attitude decides if you move forward or get stuck. Gen Z, in particular, faces daunting prospects with AI automating entry-level roles and economic headwinds slowing growth, making job entry tougher. Yet, as Eschenbach highlights, shifting to a service-oriented mindset—prioritizing authenticity and relationships over self-promotion—can turn these challenges into opportunities.
The coaching lens: can attitude be changed?
Some people ask me if attitude is fixed. My answer: not completely, but it can be reshaped.
At Jobprofile, we don’t “teach” attitude—we coach behaviors that reveal it. Through reflection and practice, you learn how to present yourself differently:
- Communicating contribution instead of entitlement.
- Owning results instead of hiding behind “we.”
- Showing resilience when rejected instead of blaming the market.
These shifts seem small, but they change how employers perceive you. Studies show coaching has a strong impact on behaviors, which in turn signals the right attitude. And that’s what gets you hired.
Time to look in the mirror
So if you’ve been sending applications with no response, or interviews keep slipping away, pause and ask yourself:
- Do I focus more on what I want than what I can deliver?
- Have I been dismissive, informal, or defensive with recruiters?
- Am I hiding behind skills and not showing impact?
The market is competitive, no doubt. AI is reshaping industries. But roles exist—and people are landing them. If you’re not, the issue may not be “out there.” It might be in your own reflection.
Conclusion
Our coaching helps you reposition, sharpen your narrative, and project the attitude Swiss employers are looking for: reliable, committed, and value-driven.
Because in the end, your attitude isn’t just part of your career toolkit. It’s the key that unlocks the door.
