Pursuing A New Career In Germany- Get Started Successfully

Applying for a job and career in Germany requires more than just your CV and reference letters from previous employers. The typical application package, also known as Bewerbungsmappe, must include:

• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• A cover letter
• Reference letters
• School leaving certificates
• A university diploma
• Work samples
• A photo of yourself

Depending on the preferences of the employers, you may be asked to send the application package either by post or in an electronic printable format such as PDF. Also, remember that your documents must be composed and translated into German or English, especially if you are applying for an English-speaking job.

This may be one of the most important steps in applying for a job in Germany because this is how you will leave a great impression of being professional and skillful to your future German employers.

Search for job listings

Once you have completed your CV, you can move on to the next step and search for job listings. There are several ways you can go when searching for your job. For example, you can hire a reliable international job search company or a local recruitment agency which will help you find more specialist positions.

Another way of searching for a job is to do it on your own. While you are waiting for the headhunters to find a job for you, you can take it upon yourself and search for German job websites. If you decide to search for a job online, it is advised that you first look for those websites which are operated by government agencies. However, there are many independent job portals that are just as reputable and specialize in certain geographic areas and professions.

Prepare for an interview

You have found your job and sent out the application letter and now you have received the call from your future employers to arrange an interview. In general, there is no universal way of how you should behave at a job interview in Germany. This may be because company employers are different, so a lot depends on their requirements as well as the person who will be interviewing you.

However, this shouldn’t be discouraging as there are many tips you can follow in order to have a successful interview. Some of these include:

• Be punctual and polite when addressing the interviewer
• Sound as natural as you can
• Look professional and dress suitably
• Have a copy of your application package nearby
• Moderately emphasize your past achievements
• Prepare a list of questions to ask your interviewer and take notes

Apply for a work permit and visa

Having a work permit and visa means you are allowed to find a job and live in Germany as a fully integrated member of society. Citizens from several European countries such as Switzerland, Norway and Iceland don’t require a work permit or visa to work in Germany. However, if you come from any other country, you must apply for one once you have a contract of employment in Germany.

This process is slightly different because it mostly depends on your country of origin. Applicants usually apply for a work permit and visa at the same time. This should be initiated by you personally before you leave your current country of residence in the nearest Consulate or German Embassy. It is recommended that you apply for a specialist professional residence as it is the most versatile and allows you to meet several specific criteria.

Obtain health insurance

Health insurance has been mandatory for everyone in Germany since 2009 which is why you must apply for it as soon as you arrive. As a foreigner, it is recommended that you obtain private health insurance Germany-wide.

In general, private health insurance brings many benefits and provides broad geographical coverage. By having it, you will be considered a private patient who will have access to the best health care facilities and professionals.

Also, when it comes to the overall cost of private health insurance in Germany, there is not an exact amount of how much it costs. In fact, many individual factors such as age and health status are taken into consideration which determines the overall price.

Find a place to live

Planning your living arrangements comes after you have completed all preliminary work and sorted out all necessary documents. In some cases, the company employers who are hiring you may be able to provide you with temporary housing. In addition to this, they may even help cover some of your moving and travel expenses until you fully settle in.

If this may not be the case for you, there is always the option of searching for local housing through online platforms like Airbnb. This could be your temporary residence until you find a long-term solution.

Final thoughts

Although the process of searching and applying for a job in Germany may seem long and stressful, you shouldn’t be afraid to take chances and opt for a successful career. The key to all this is gathering all necessary information which will certainly help put you on the top of the list and leave a great impression on your future employers. Therefore, if you are planning to start a career in Germany, refer to this guide to help you find the job of your dreams.