Bern Economy

Bernese business hours are typically Monday to Friday 0800-1200 and 1400-1700. Business attire is reasonably casual but is more conservative in financial institutions where you should definitely wear business suits. Punctuality is important and business cards are widely used. It is always important to address Swiss colleagues by their surnames (including any academic or honorary titles) and to use the polite Sie form, rather than the informal du, until familiarity has been established. A little introductory chit-chat is usually expected but avoid overly personal topics. Business relations and negotiations tend to develop slowly and visitors should adopt the local pace.