Switzerland's machinery, electronics and metal industry sales rose by 7.3 percent year-on-year on the back of a strong order intake throughout the year, according to industry association Swissmem. New foreign orders rose by a mere 0.6 percent and domestic order intake declined by 12.8 percent, marking its eighth quarterly decline in a row, suggesting a slowing in the market. China's efforts to prevent its economy from overheating affected Swiss exports, with machinery, electronics and metal industry exports to China falling by 7.4 percent. While Swiss industrial growth recently slowed more sharply than firms expected, industry analysts expect it to pick up in the near future.

As in much of the western world, Swiss manufacturing companies use staff reduction and offshore outsourcing as tools to become and remain competitive in their changing industries. Improved operating results at a particular company do not necessarily equate with job stability or hiring prospects. The sound of cutting jobs is frequently being heard across the payroll rosters of Switzerland's industrial sector.

This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete Switzerland guide.