Job Application and Interview Process
Have you found a suitable job offer and would like to apply? When applying for a job in Germany, there are a few formal standards you should bear in mind.
Applications must be submitted in writing. They usually consist of a cover letter, a CV, and an appendix containing, for example, certificates, school reports and references. Job advertisements usually specify which documents are required for the application. It is also important to note whether there is a deadline for the application.
Cover Letter
You can think of the cover letter as a kind of letter of motivation. The cover letter gives potential employers a first impression of you and your qualifications. The cover letter should refer specifically to the job you are applying for and the requirements and job description in the job advertisement.
Explain why you are interested in this company and this position. You should also present your strengths and explain why you are particularly suited to this position. Highlight your skills, but do not simply repeat your CV.
Nowadays, applications are rarely sent by post in an application folder, but are sent by email or uploaded to an application portal. Nevertheless, the cover letter should look neat and be structured like an official letter. It should contain the following elements:
- Address of the company to which the letter is addressed. If a contact person has been named, include their name as well.
- Your address and contact details (e-mail address, telephone number)
- Date on which you wrote the letter
- Subject line (this should be meaningful and, if available, include the applicant number)
- Salutation (generally ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ or by name – ideally, a specific contact person was named in the job advertisement or you were able to find out who the contact person is)
- Text
- Signature
The cover letter should ideally be one page long, with a maximum of two pages. You can find a sample cover letter in the download area below.
Curriculum Vitae
In your curriculum vitae (CV) you should provide a brief overview of:
- Your previous professional experience (list the companies you have worked for, your job title and your main responsibilities. Relevant internships should also be mentioned here).
- Your education (this includes school education, vocational training or university studies, as well as job-related further training)
- Your other qualifications (e.g.language skills, IT skills or information about your driving licence)
- It is customary to mention some personal interests at the end of your CV. However, you should think carefully about which interests you list; dangerous sports, for example, are not viewed favourably. You can also mention any voluntary work here.
The German CV is structured in a tabular, chronological format, starting with the most recent positions.
Tipp
You can start your CV with two or three sentences summarising your most important qualities and skills. It can also be useful to tailor your CV to the company and the job you are applying for.
In Germany, a portrait photo is often included in the top right-hand corner of the CV, but this is not essential. If you do include a photo, make sure it is of good quality and that you look professional in it. Photos from holidays or leisure activities should not be used.
As a rule, your personal details (first name and surname, address, contact details, date of birth, place of birth, marital status and nationality) are also given at the top of your CV. If you have a residence permit in Germany, you should also mention this.
Ideally, your CV should be one page long, with a maximum of two pages. You can find a sample CV in the download area below.
Appendix
You should provide evidence of your professional experience, education and qualifications in the form of (employment) references or certificates. These should be attached to your application. Please note that in certain cases, you will need to have your qualifications officially recognised first. You should also have your references translated into German or English. Allow enough time for this so that you do not miss any application deadlines.
You can also include other important documents in the appendix, such as letters of recommendation from previous employers.
Tipp
When sending your application by e-mail, do not attach too many individual files. Ideally, combine your cover letter, CV and attachments into a single PDF file. And make sure that the attachment is of an acceptable size. If the attachment is too large, the recipient may not receive the application. You should also take care not to send open files, such as Word files.
Selection Process
If the potential employer is interested in your application, they will contact you and invite you to the next stage of the selection process. It is common practice to invite candidates to a face-to-face interview. However, the selection process can be more complex, especially in larger organisations and companies or for higher positions, and may include an assessment centre.
The personal interview will take place on-site at the employer's premises, if possible, or via video conference. If the appointment takes place on-site and you are not yet in Germany, it is essential that you note the entry requirements and any time difference. Arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and switch your mobile phone to silent mode.
Wichtiger Hinweis
An invitation to an interview does not guarantee you the job. In most cases, several applicants will be invited to an interview.
During the interview, you will usually be asked questions about your CV, your expectations of the job, and your skills and interests. You will often be asked about your salary expectations. You may also be tested on your German or English language skills, or given a practical task to complete. However, the interview also gives you the opportunity to get to know your potential employer, ask questions and convince them that you are the right person for the job.
Tipp
Before the interview, find out as much as you can about the employer and the position in question. Also prepare a few keywords about your skills, strengths and weaknesses. Think about possible questions you might ask your interviewers.