Would you like to work in Germany? If you want to start a career in Germany, you will find many interesting job offers. One of the biggest challenges you will face in the application process is certainly the interview. Good preparation will enable you to overcome this hurdle, however. Think of the interview as a hike. Your first step will be to prepare the interview.
Plan your journey
Like any hike, everything begins with thorough planning. If you have the wrong shoes, no map and no plan, your hike will not be a success – and the same applies to your job interview.
- Research the company: find out as much as possible about the company and the position you are applying for. Investigate the company's history, its culture and its current projects. A Google search, the LinkedIn company profile or the "About Us" section will serve as your map and compass.
- Pack your gear: your CV and cover letter should be perfectly tailored to the position. Bring a printed copy to your interview.
- Anticipate typical questions and think about how to answer them. Prepare your own questions to ask during the interview as well.
Practise interview questions
Practise common questions by making notes and presenting them to a friend. If nobody is around to help you, record yourself and listen to the playback. The most common questions in German job interviews include:
- Tell us about yourself. To answer this question, provide a brief and concise summary of your professional career and highlight relevant experience. Remember, the interviewer doesn’t need to hear your entire life story. Focus on positions and experiences that qualify you for the job.
- Why do you want to work for us? Show that you have researched the company. Mention specific reasons why you believe you are a good fit.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses? Be honest but strategic. Mention strengths relevant to the job and weaknesses you are already working on.
Further preparations
Punctuality is particularly valued in Germany. Being late shows a lack of respect for the other person. Know the exact location: find out precisely where the interview will take place, research transport options and consider any potential access checks in the building. Allow enough time for unexpected delays. If the interview will be taking place in a big city and you will arrive by car, allow extra time for parking. Such logistical preparation will help ensure that you arrive relaxed and focused on the essentials.
Proper attire plays an important role in Germany, too. Though the dress code can vary from one sector to another, it’s better in case of doubt to be slightly more formal than too casual. A neat appearance and appropriate clothing emphasise your professionalism.
Pay attention to an upright posture and a firm handshake. Check the “About Us” section on the company’s website and look at any employee photos that may appear there to gauge the dress code if you are unsure. A visit to the hairdresser and a fresh shave for men can boost your confidence.
From German Bureaucracy to Job Interviews
First steps: small talk
Did you know that people form an initial impression of you within seconds? So make sure to appear positive from the moment you enter the premises. The first words you exchange with your interviewers might surprise you. After the greeting, you might be asked questions like “Did you find us easily?” or “How was parking?” This is an invitation to engage briefly in small talk to break the ice. Use this opportunity to make a good impression right from the start. Be friendly and talk about positive things: they don’t need to know if you had trouble finding the company.
The small talk will make you feel less nervous afterwards. However, keep in mind that interviews in Germany can be more formal than in other countries. Unless told otherwise, always address your interviewer as “Mr” or 'Ms' followed by their last name.
The ascent: the critical phase of questions and answers
Now begins the critical phase of the ascent. Just like in open terrain, your heart may start racing during the interview session. You may find in this phase that the conversation flows smoothly one minute, with you delivering well-prepared answers, and that the next moment you start sweating.
As with the ups and downs involved in a hike, endurance is key here. Employers' questions can dig deep and are often challenging. Be confident and honest. Use this opportunity to highlight your skills and experiences. Remember: it's okay to take a moment to think before answering – like a hiker pausing before a steep climb.
Dos and Don'ts
However, there are some behaviours that are particularly important in German job interviews.
The dos include:
- Be honest in your answers and avoid pretending to have skills you don’t possess.
- German employers appreciate direct and precise answers. Focus on the essentials.
- Teamwork is highly valued. That’s why personal questions about the way you work are common. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to work collaboratively.
The don'ts include:
- Avoid exaggerating your skills or experiences. German employers appreciate modesty.
- Do not speak ill of former employers or colleagues. This can reflect negatively on you.
- Avoid distractions: turn off your phone and focus entirely on the interview.
The descent: final questions and ending the interview
As the interview nears its end, you might feel that the hardest part is over – rather like reaching the summit and embarking on the descent. However, the descent can be just as challenging as the ascent. Did you know that it is mainly the descent that causes your muscles to ache after a hike?
The final part of the interview still requires energy and stamina. The most challenging question at the end of an interview is often: “Do you have any questions?” Take this opportunity to ask your own questions. This shows interest and engagement. Intelligent questions can set you apart and make you memorable.
Avoid the following questions, as they indicate a lack of preparation:
- How many employees does your company have?
- How old is the company?
- Do you have branches abroad?
Instead, ask questions that express your interest in the company and your potential role there:
- Why is the position vacant?
- What distinguishes your best employees?
- How are talents and strengths fostered in your company?
- What does success look like in the first 100 days?
- What challenges will I face in the first 100 days?
- What challenges is your company currently facing? Make sure that the next steps are clear by the end of the interview: who will contact whom and by when? This provides clarity.
Reflection and follow-Up: the return and aftercare
A thank-you email is the perfect conclusion to your journey. Thank the interviewers for the opportunity to meet them and reiterate your interest in the position. Following the interview up in this way shows professionalism and keeps you in the employer's mind.
After the interview comes the reflection phase. Think about what went well and where you could improve. Note important points that came up during the interview. This will help you to prepare better for job interviews to come - and to finally find your dream job in Germany.