How to Ace a WG Viewing in Zurich: Tips to Impress Future Roommates

Be Punctual and Polite (Swiss 101)

First impressions start before you even say hello. In Switzerland, punctuality is almost a national sport. Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early for your viewing – not more (you don’t want to catch your hosts off-guard) and definitely not less. I arrived 12 hours too early to my viewing... Probably not the best first impression, but I still got the room. So don't worry about it too much. If disaster strikes (train delay, etc.), message immediately to apologize and update your ETA.

When you arrive, greet everyone with a friendly smile, a handshake or nod (depending on the vibe), and don’t forget a polite “Grüezi” or “Hallo”. Even if the viewing feels casual, demonstrating respect and politeness is key. Also, remove your shoes at the door if others do – it’s customary in many flats.

Come Prepared (Yes, This Is a Bit Like an Interview)

Think of a WG viewing as your chance to introduce yourself beyond the text of your application. The roommates want to get a sense of who you are and whether you’ll mesh well in the flat. Here’s how to prep:

• Know Your Pitch: Be ready to share a short and sweet intro about yourself. You’ll likely be asked something like “So, tell us a bit about you!” Have a concise answer: e.g. “I’m Maria from Spain, 24, starting my Master’s at ETH next semester. I love cooking (will gladly share my paella!), I’m tidy, and on weekends I’m usually out hiking or exploring the city.” Mention relevant stuff – your routine, hobbies, and that you’re considerate with shared spaces.
• Prepare Questions: Yup, you should ask questions too. Not only to get info you need, but it shows engagement. Consider asking: “How do you handle cleaning – a rota or as needed?”, “Do you guys hang out together often or is it more independent?”, “What’s the landlord like?” Avoid anything that’s already obvious from the ad (you don’t want to seem like you didn’t read it). And maybe save the “How long do I have to decide?” question for later or via message unless the vibe is right; you don’t want to come off as if you have many options (even if you do).

Be Your Best (Genuine) Self

During the viewing, you’ll likely chat with the current roommates in the kitchen or living room after the quick tour. This is your moment to let your personality shine – and also feel out theirs. Chemistry matters:

• Show Enthusiasm for the Flat: Compliment something you genuinely like – “Wow, the living room is so cozy with that big sofa,” or “I love the location; being near the lake is great.” People want a flatmate who wants to live there, not someone treating it as just another option.
• Mind Your Body Language: Smile, make eye contact, and try to relax (I know, easier said than done). Nod when others talk and laugh at little jokes. Avoid crossing your arms or checking your phone. Active listening signals that you’d be a considerate roommate too.
• Find Common Ground: If you notice a guitar in the corner and you play a bit, mention it. Or if someone says they like a TV show you also watch – chime in. These small connections (“Oh, you’re into rock climbing? I’ve been wanting to try the gym at Milandia!”) can make you memorable.
• Honesty is Key: Don’t claim to be an early bird if you party till 2 a.m., or say you’re super tidy if you’ve never wielded a vacuum. WGs thrive on compatibility. It’s better to describe your real lifestyle – there’s a WG out there that’s a match. If this one isn’t, no one benefits from forcing it.

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Highlight Your “Good Roommate” Qualities

At some point, usually there’s an opportunity to talk about how you are as a roommate. Rather than just saying “I’m clean and easy-going,” give brief examples:

• Cleanliness: “I usually do a quick kitchen clean-up after cooking and don’t like to leave dishes overnight.” (This subtly says I won’t be the one leaving a mess).
• Respect for Quiet: “I’m pretty mindful of noise – I wear headphones for late-night movies. I know Swiss quiet hours are a thing.” This shows you’re aware of local norms and won’t be blasting music at midnight.
• Social vs. Private Balance: If you’re very social, you might add “I enjoy having a chat in the evening if others are around, and I’d be down for the occasional WG dinner.” If you’re more on the quiet side: “I keep to myself a bit on busy workdays, but I’m always up for a friendly catch-up in the kitchen.” That way they can envision living with you.

If you sense the roommates are gauging your reaction, jump in with positivity. For example, if they apologetically say “We have a cleaning schedule, each person takes a week,” you might respond, “That’s great – I find schedules make it so much easier to keep things clean.” Boom, you just cast yourself as the responsible candidate who likes cleaning rotations (even if “like” is a strong word, you at least don’t mind them).

Ask About Next Steps and Follow Up

As the viewing wraps up, it’s okay to ask what the timeline is. Zurich WGs often have multiple candidates coming through. You could pose it as, “It was great meeting you all. Just wondering, when do you plan to make a decision by?” This shows you’re keen and also helps manage your expectations. They might say, “We have a couple more people this week, and we’ll let everyone know by Sunday.”

Thank everyone as you leave – something like “Thanks for showing me around, I really appreciate it. Have a great evening!” goes a long way. Simple courtesy can tip the scales in your favor if they’re choosing between polite Person A and awkward Person B.

Afterwards, consider sending a short follow-up message (text or via the platform you applied through, e.g., Flatable or email). Keep it light and gracious: “Hi, just wanted to thank you again for the viewing earlier. I really liked the flat and it was nice meeting you all. If you have any more questions for me, feel free to ask. Have a nice weekend!” This little nudge reminds them you’re very interested and responsible. Don’t overdo it with multiple messages – one is enough.

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Bonus: Quick Don’ts (Avoid These Common Mistakes)

• Don’t Dominate or Be Too Quiet: Balance is key. Don’t talk over people or make it all about you, but also don’t fade into the wallpaper. Engage with everyone present.
• Don’t Bring a Friend/Parent: This isn’t a real estate open house – showing up with your mom or your buddy for “moral support” will seem odd. WG castings are typically 1:1 (or you plus the group of roommates). Exception: if it’s a group viewing where they invited multiple candidates at once, obviously you can’t avoid others being there. But you personally should come solo.
• Don’t Focus on Money First: It’s fine to clarify rent and utilities, but if the first thing you ask is “So can we negotiate the rent?” or “Do I really have to pay the deposit?”, you might raise eyebrows. Get the vibe and then clarify financials if needed.
• Avoid Controversial Topics: Probably not the time to rant about politics or dive into very personal matters. Keep it friendly and neutral.

Finally, remember that finding the right WG is as much about them choosing you as you choosing them. If it doesn’t work out, don’t take it personally – sometimes it’s just about chemistry or timing. Zurich’s housing scene is tough, so congratulate yourself for every viewing you land and treat it as good practice.

By following these tips – being punctual, prepared, personable, and respectful – you’ll significantly boost your chances of acing that WG viewing. With a bit of luck, you’ll soon hear the words, “You were our favorite – want to move in?” 🎉 Good luck, and happy flat-hunting!

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