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A job interview in Germany is usually more specific and formal than in many cultures. Punctuality, preparation and directness in your answers matter a great deal. This guide helps you go into the interview with confidence.
Before the interview
- Research the company, its products, values and competitors.
- Re-read the listing and prepare one example from your own experience for each requirement.
- Test the route or video-call link in advance.
- Keep your documents in a folder: CV, certificates, a list of questions.
Behaviour and appearance
Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early; arriving late is the worst start. Choose clothing suited to the industry (in IT companies usually simpler than in banking and consulting). A firm handshake and normal eye contact are customary. Address the interviewer with Sie and their surname unless they themselves offer “du”.
Common questions
- Introduce yourself (Erzählen Sie etwas über sich).
- Why this company and why this position?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Describe a difficult situation and your solution (the STAR method: situation, task, action, result).
- What are your salary expectations? (Gehaltsvorstellung)
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Why did you migrate and how long do you plan to stay? (some employers ask about stability)
Language
If your German is not perfect, hold the interview in the language stated in the listing and be honest about your level. Showing that you are learning is far better than a false claim. Practise key sentences beforehand.
Your questions
Always have a few questions ready: daily duties, team structure, the evaluation process, training opportunities and the next hiring steps. Talk about salary carefully and research the realistic market range beforehand.
After the interview
Send a short thank-you email within 24 hours. If you hear nothing after the promised time, follow up politely after a week or two.
Related: CV and Anschreiben, employment contract and employee rights.
