How to prepare a Resume to
Work in Germany
This
is a short guide to help you. How to prepare a resume to work in
Germany.
German
companies expect you to include a photograph (remember to put your
details on the back of the picture) with your standard Resume / CV.
Do not use a paperclip to attach the photo, but glue or alternatively
staple the photo.
German Resume / CVs differ vastly from British
ones you are expected to include information, which in the UK you would
not be asked for until you were offered the position.
The style of writing should be concise, to the
point and clear.
You present your German Resume / CV in a binder
and
include copies of all your education certificates and any references
from former employers.
They are not interested in your personal
interests, but applicants often include their parents’ details and
occupations.
German Resumes / CVs follow a strict
chronological order
starting with employment details and ending with education.
Your German Resume / CV should be signed below on
the
right, next to the place and date in the left-hand corner.
Work permits in Germany
• EEA citizens are free to move and work wherever
they want to, within the EEA (including Germany).
• You need to apply for a residence permit. This is valid for five
years and should be issued within six months of your arrival.
• Contact the German
embassy in your home country for more information.
The application procedure in Germany
• The German application procedure is extremely
formal.
• Prepare yourself for questions regarding your current activities,
expected wage and activities of the company.
• Having experience is one of the main selection criteria in Germany.
The application letter in Germany
• The application letter should be typed and start
with the name and title of the person who is supposed to be dealing
with it.
• Give a complete and precise description of the position you
previously held. Personal motivation for a job is less important in
Germany.
• A conservative letter style is preferred.
• The entire application package is usually 10 to 20 pages. Candidates
present their information in a special map that allows you to
categorize the different types of supporting material you have to
include (grade lists, letters of reference, examples of previous work,
etc). Never fold the letter or CV – that is considered ‘not done’.
Dos
• Shake hands firmly - and introduce yourself.
• Look interested – ask questions.
• Ask for clarification if you don’t understand the question.
• Provide examples to illustrate your achievements.
• Answer questions with precision in a German interview.
Don’ts
• Be late for appointments.
• Ask people directly for a job in their company.
• Sit until invited.
• Criticise former employers.
• Go over the top – stay calm and stick to the facts.
Management culture in Germany
• The German organisational culture is
characterised by hierarchy with a strong management.
• Germans work on carefully planned tasks, and make decisions based on
hard facts only.
• Meetings are orderly and efficient and usually follow a tight
schedule.
• Discussions are held with the goal to reach compliance and a final
decision in Germany.
• Time is a well-defined concept therefore people are very punctual. Be
aware of it!
Why
not Learn some German Just fill out the form below and get a 6 day learn German course for free.
Or
Go to Learn to Speak German to work in Germany Page
Books of Interest
Jobs in Germany
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