How to land your dream job in Deutschland

If you are in IT or Finance and know how to speak German conversationally, then you may find that landing a job in Deutschland is easy- others may have to work just a little bit harder to find work.

If you feel like you want to make the jump but don’t know how, then it’s best to hire the right experts who can make your dreams come true.

The fact is that Germany is an amazing place for expats—minimum wage is at 9 EUR (10 USD) per hour, while the average salary is in the 1600 EUR (1731 USD) range.

Eager to get started? Here’s a step by step guide:

STEP 1: Find the Job

Different countries have different job portals. In Germany (like any other country), be very careful where you put in your private details. The most reputable sites include: Berlin Startup Jobs, Glassdoor, Indeed, LinkedIn.

STEP 2: Networking— German style

If you are tackling your German dreams head-on and are opting to do good old-fashioned networking, then you certainly have to know exactly what to do. Germans tend to err on the side of professionalism, even if the atmosphere seems laid back. So, take your cue and don’t over share. If you find someone who could help you land a job, don’t overstay your welcome in the conversation, instead ask them to meet you in the next couple of days to discuss things further. After all, the purpose of networking is meeting the biggest number of people in an event.

STEP 3: Prepare a CV- The German Way

When applying for a job in a foreign company, it is best to know what employers are expecting to see in a resume. Photos, for example, are discouraged in the US but are acceptable in Germany. Please do ensure that it is professional looking and cropped at the shoulders- think passport or visa photos.

Like we said, you must speak conversational German for you to have an edge in landing that dream job, so make sure you translate your CV. Aside your contact details and work experience, please include two written references. This is just what most HR professionals in Germany expect but they are unlikely to contact them.

STEP 4: Dress the part

Unless you know for a fact that the company dresses casually, dress in formal business attire.

STEP 5: Be on time

Germans are known for being strict with time, and this is a stereotype for good reason. Make sure you are at your interview location 15 minutes before it begins.

Salaries and Benefits

Self-Employment is respected in Germany. In fact, at least 10% of its citizens have their own businesses. Be sure to check your tax liabilities and pay them within the first half of the year (January 1 up to July 31).

Taxes

It’s easy to get a Tax Identification Number in Germany- just fil in the Fragebogen zur Steuerlichen Erfassung registration form, submit to the tax office nearest you, and wait for your Tax number in a few weeks. Don’t forget to include this number in every billing you send out.

Value Added Tax (Umsatzsteuer)

This is added onto everything sold in Germany, be it a product or a form of service. Standard VAT is at 19% while it can be reduced to 7% for items like food, books, public transport and even rent.