If working with your RAV adviser is difficult, first separate the issues: missing information, a communication problem or a request for a different adviser? Requesting a change and challenging a formal decision are different matters. This guide helps you prepare a factual enquiry without assuming approval.
What the official information says
The arbeit.swiss FAQ recommends speaking to your adviser first when interpersonal problems arise. It also says that a change request can usually be made to the adviser or RAV management. This does not promise approval of every request. A recommendation to talk is not a universal legal prerequisite.
Ask your RAV which office receives your request and what information it needs. If a direct discussion does not seem appropriate, explain this to the responsible office. Also ask which form and deadlines apply to your request.
Describe the problem before requesting a solution
Separate the observation, the unanswered question and the change you want. Possible discussion topics include unclear agreements, repeated communication difficulties, an unresolved professional question or a personal connection you wish to raise as a potential conflict of interest. These are examples of concerns, not automatically accepted grounds for changing advisers.
Note the date and what actually happened. Refer to existing messages or documents. Identify your perception as your perception. If you believe advice was wrong, ask the specific question and request clarification rather than replacing an assessment with a general judgement about the person.
Worksheet: Three fields for your next discussion
Fill in these three lines for yourself:
- Situation: What remained unclear at which meeting or in which message?
- Impact: How does this affect my job search or implementation of an agreement?
- Request: What specific clarification or change do I want to ask for?
Fictional example: “After our last meeting I am unsure which roles to focus on. I would like to discuss two suitable adverts and record the next steps.” This is a conversation aid, not a legal justification for a change. Use your own facts and share only necessary details.
Phrase a change request factually
You can adapt the following wording:
I would like to clarify the working relationship in my RAV advice. At [date/situation], [specific point] remained unresolved. So far I have [actual enquiry or discussion] about this. Please tell me who will consider my concern and whether a change of adviser can be examined in my situation. What information do you need?
Omit the sentence about earlier steps if there were none. Do not invent meetings or incidents. Keep a copy of the request and reply. Ask when and through which channel to expect an answer. This is an organisational question, not an invented statutory response deadline.
A formal decision needs a different review route
If the issue concerns a formal decision, read its appeal instructions and follow the stated steps, responsible office and deadline. The SECO FAQ distinguishes these remedies from interpersonal concerns. Do not treat a request to change adviser as a replacement for a necessary objection. Seek qualified advice promptly if anything is unclear.
Continue appointments and job-search efforts under the applicable agreements. Clarify changes explicitly; do not infer an exemption from an unanswered request. No tool, perfect wording or document export guarantees a change or acceptance of evidence.
Preparation you can control
Organise questions, application evidence and replies so you can find them again. Paper or your existing digital system is sufficient for preparation. The PARAT homepage offers information; your actual documents and the responsible office’s requirements remain decisive.
