In “Der Bund” and “Berner Zeitung”: a fresh start at 50plus – pitfalls and opportunities
The Bernese dailies also published the interview with our CEO Christian Bartholet: on 4 July 2026 it appeared in the job market section of “Der Bund”, “Berner Zeitung”, “Thuner Tagblatt” and “Berner Oberländer”.
The focus is on the transition phase between the old job and the new direction – and on what can make it fail. Christian Bartholet describes why executives in particular underestimate the loss of role and status, why a search at senior level demands patience, and how taking stock turns into concrete new perspectives.
Key points
- Those who have long defined themselves through their role often experience its loss as an identity crisis. An honest look at energy, resilience and fit is part of the process.
- In mid-life a job search takes several months – and headhunters do not search on behalf of candidates. You have to become active yourself.
- Taking stock is followed by vision work and a reality check, then by action: activating the network, trying out projects, further training.
- A role needs “BISS”, a German acronym for enthusiasm, identification, meaning and fun.
- The “perfect match” culture of the Swiss labour market makes entry harder for experienced professionals. Given demographics, companies need to rethink.
Read the full article (PDF, in German)
Source: “Bildung & Beruf” job market section of Der Bund, Berner Zeitung, Thuner Tagblatt and Berner Oberländer, 4 July 2026. Interview: Marianne Rupp.
Christian Bartholet is CEO of Grass & Partner AG. View his profile · Facing a career change yourself, or supporting one in your organisation? Get in touch with us.