Independence comes at a cost
Anyone who wishes to move towards independence must be conscious of the amount of work that will be expected. Long days and short nights are a common feature of the life of young entrepreneurs. However, despite the sacrifices they make in giving up some of their free time, entrepreneurs also experience high levels of satisfaction. Several studies have shown that they are often happier than salaried employees.
It is also important to know that independence is a risky business. Many people who set up their own business go bankrupt in the first few years (Figures on SMEs: survival rates and business closures). According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO), 10,7% of self-employed workers were affected by poverty in 2022, compared with only 2,9% of employees. Self-employed single proprietors with no other employees are particularly affected by this trend (13,4%).*
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the Swiss economy. Over 99% of local companies employ fewer than 250 people full time, which is an encouraging sign for founders of small companies in Switzerland.
