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Expanding the company
The Zurich Insider works with freelance guides who enjoy sharing their knowledge, engaging curious travelers, and leading private tours with care, confidence, and personality.
If you value independence, thoughtful storytelling, and the opportunity to work with an international, culturally minded audience, we welcome your interest.
Why With Us?
Independence, Flexibility, & Shared Standards
We work with independent, freelance guides who value both autonomy and professionalism. You are encouraged to bring your personality, perspective, and passion for your craft while working within a shared framework of quality, discretion, and care for our guests.
While each guide is independent, we are aligned in our values, our standards, and our commitment to delivering thoughtful, well-prepared private tours in Zurich and across Switzerland.
What We Value in Our Guides
We are less interested in a “perfect” résumé than in substance. What matters most is your ability to engage discerning guests with confidence, cultural insight, and genuine curiosity.
Your experience, creativity, and ability to read a group are what transform a well-planned itinerary into a memorable and meaningful tour. Trust, integrity, and clear communication are essential to how we work together and how we represent The Zurich Insider.
Curiosity & Personal Interests
Many of our strongest tours grow from personal passions. If you have deep knowledge of a particular place, theme, or subject within Switzerland and enjoy continuing to learn and share that knowledge, we would be interested in hearing from you.
If this resonates, you are welcome to connect with us via the “Apply” button.
Community & Exchange
Our work is built on relationships. You will interact not only with guests, but also with fellow guides, local partners, and an international clientele. We value collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared sense of responsibility toward the destinations we represent.
Flexible Collaboration, Long-Term Mindset
You decide how much you wish to work and when. While we aim to build long-term collaborations and grow together, we also understand that life and availability evolve. This model is designed to respect independence while offering professional continuity and mutual growth.
responsibilities
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Prepare, research, and adapt tour itineraries to guests’ interests and needs
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Lead primarily private tours, with occasional larger groups
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Communicate clearly and accurately on cultural and historical topics
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Use storytelling, context, and relevant anecdotes to engage guests
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Answer questions thoughtfully and encourage curiosity
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Provide practical assistance at the end of tours, including directions and follow-up guidance
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Complete a brief post-tour debrief
Your Skills
Skills and Requirements
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Valid work authorization for Switzerland and freelance status
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Strong knowledge of the areas you guide, with a willingness to deepen it continuously
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Physical readiness for walking tours in varying weather conditions
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Professional proficiency in English; additional languages are an asset
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Experience in hospitality, guiding, or client-facing roles
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Detail-oriented, reliable, and composed
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Confident communicator with strong presence
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Culturally curious and well-traveled
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Calm under pressure and solution-oriented
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Warm, attentive, and respectful, with the ability to guide groups clearly when needed
Personal qualities we value
Will I get training?
Yes. Training is mutually beneficial as we strive to be the best in our roles as hosts and guides to travelers! We grow and develop professionally and personally together.
What is the expected pay per tour?
Details will be discussed when we agree that we are a great fit. However, expect higher than average compensation when working with us.
When will I hear back from you? What happens next?
You will hear back from us within ten working days (keep an eye on your inbox).
If we see you as an outstanding candidate, we will invite you for a talk to determine if we are a great fit, and we will go from there.
In what language should I submit my application?
Please submit your application in English.
Do you sponsor visas?
No. You are a legal resident of Switzerland and have the appropriate work permit.
Do I get a bonus with each 5-Star review?
Absolutely yes!
Does The Zurich Insider employ me?
No. We will, however, have a freelance partnership signed agreement.
Do you wish to partner up with a service (Hotel, restaurant, Bar, shop, Photographer, etc.)?
We would love to hear from you and set up a call to discuss our possible partnership and how we can elevate the experience of our guests and travelers together.
We are looking forward to meeting you!