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If you want to have access to the German job market after graduation, what do you need to know?

![EDUBAO_6301_Body2.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/e7776700-8cec-465e-b0a3-fc52acf8cd48/edubao-6301-body2.jpg 'EDUBAO_6301_Body2.jpg')

## **Between study and job: Use your time properly**

If the completion certificate is available, graduates can have the residence permit extended by the appropriate immigration office. The 18 months begin only after the written announcement of the existence of the final examination and the examination result. The de-registration or the day on which the certificate is issued is not relevant for this period.

During this time, foreign students are also allowed to work in Germany. So, it is also better that you can get an appropriate job to make a living:

- Side job, temporary work or transition job after graduation, e.g. trade show jobs, office activities, restaurants, call centers, product testers.

- Temporary work offers the opportunity to get a taste of different areas, aspiring all-rounders can train their abilities here. If you do not know which way to go, you can explore different areas and gain valuable guidance.

 - With a side job, you can earn some money between practice and the first real job and gain practical experience. If the part-time job is also related to the desired job, you kill two birds with one stone.

- Work contracts (Werkvertrag): This kind of contractual relationship is a form of free cooperation: While a work contract for a clearly defined project is concluded and ends with its implementation, fee-based contracts provide the basis for regular assignments without a contract of employment being established. These employment relationships not only serve to bridge unemployment but are also sometimes an introduction to a later permanent position or self-employment.

- Second internship: In some cases, a second internship after graduation is quite helpful e.g. if during the study and after the first internship, specific skills were not acquired and the start of a career failed. Or if you as a graduate still have no idea what you want to be and are looking for orientation. For people who finish their studies because they realize they do not want to work in this area, an internship also offers the chance of a realignment.


- Voluntary activities, e.g. as tutoring for refugees, visit service in a retirement home for single senior citizens, cooperation at the blackboard. 

 - Volunteering and social commitment are good in every CV. This is far more convincing than to describe yourself in the letter of application as a team player, conscientious and socially competent, without being able to prove this based on concrete examples. The chance to be hired by an NGO also increases. 

![EDUBAO_6301_Body2_work together.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/0bba117b-4d56-4d2b-8e12-58b29d8297a8/edubao-6301-body2-work-together.jpg 'EDUBAO_6301_Body2_work together.jpg')

## **One really has a lot of choices**

Following points should be considered in your job search strategy: 

* Which degree did you complete?
* Which internships did you complete?
* Which qualifications did you acquire? (awards, computer skills, training, foreign languages, publications)
* What are you interested in?

Most graduates are interested in direct entry, but that's not the only option available to them. Here are some choices you can make after the 18-month search phase.

### **Direct entry - Direkt einsteigen**
This entry corresponds to the classic way: you look for a suitable job, apply, get the job and hopefully survive the probationary period.

Temporary employment is currently very popular and should be considered. As a graduate, your first goal should be to find an appropriate job with acceptable compensation. So it doesn't matter if you are only offered a fixed-term contract - usually for one or two years. In this way, the probationary period will be extended and the workforce will be made more flexible i.e. whether you get the job at the end of the time limit, is anything but safe. After all, no one can take away your gained experience.

### **Trainee position - Trainee Program**
A trainee position is also considered as a direct entry but should follow a well-defined plan to serve the goal of being able to take on managerial positions later on. For this purpose, they are trained in the company professionally and go through all important departments to obtain the most comprehensive overview possible but they are usually paid less than direct entrants.

### **Promotion - Promotion**
If you completed your Master’s degree with good results n and still stuck with finding a job, you can consider promotion. As a research associate at your university during the Ph.D., you will be paid according to the Public Service Contract of the States (TV-L), in which Ph.D. students belong to the E13 level, i.e. full position at a university in North Rhine-Westphalia you can earn around €3,500 gross per month.

### **Self-employment - Selbstständig**
It's permitted, however, it must be related to the qualifications acquired during the studies. Also, in this case, the livelihood must be secured. 

You should apply for a residence permit to start a self-employed activity at the appropriate immigration office (legal basis: § 21 Abs. 2a AufenthG). You need a business registration (in the business registration office or the public order office to apply for) or a tax number from the tax office. You should also inquire at a counseling center for founders or at the chambers of commerce, which permits they need.

After you find a job, the previous residence permit can be converted into a residence permit for the purpose of employment (legal basis: §18 AufenthG). The job should be appropriate for your obtained qualifications, so it has to be a job that requires an academic degree. The income should be sufficient to secure a living. The standard of the minimum income varies from the state to state, depending on where you are going to work. It is expected that graduates will take on a decent job that will secure their livelihood. Requesting social benefits can be problematic because it could jeopardize your residence permit.

After two years working under certain conditions, a settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) is issued i.e. a permanent right of residence. If all prerequisites (including good German language skills) are met, you will be entitled to naturalization (Einbürgerung) after eight years. The study period in Germany is counted in most federal states.

![EDUBAO_6301_Body1.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/a4b3fd0b-068a-4ad0-a80f-136b10ee06b1/edubao-6301-body1.jpg 'EDUBAO_6301_Body1.jpg')

## **Attention!** 

A foreigner can only get a residence permit for the purpose of employment when they have the approval from the Federal Employment Agency. However, this only applies to people with degrees/qualifications earned overseas. So if you graduate with a degree from a German higher education institute, you don’t need the permission from the Federal Employment Agency to have your residence permit granted. 

Alright, that’s all the essential information about work opportunities after graduation in Germany. For other job/career-related tips, check out [this article](https://edubao.org/blog/how-to-start-preparing-for-a-job-search-in-germany) and [this article](https://edubao.org/blog/job-application-tips-in-germany).

And as always, drop us a message if you have any questions! Let’s stay connected!

Do you know what a German CV looks like? Let’s figure it out!

## **What is the difference between CV and resume?**

Both a CV and a resume are used as part of a job search, and they provide brief and summarized information about the applicant. However, the distinct difference is that a resume is commonly used for job applications in Canada and the US, whereas in Germany, the term "CV" is more frequently used than "resume." People in Europe typically use a CV to apply for a job instead of a resume.

![EDUBAO_3302_M.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/9abfbdb6-8c5d-4e05-84da-d3eb54c8e644/edubao-3302-m.jpg 'EDUBAO_3302_M.jpg')

## **What should be included in your CV?**

When writing your CV, it is important to focus on the way you add and structure your information. The following are the sections you should never miss:
* Personal information
* Personal profile statement (optional)
* Working experience & education
* Qualifications & skills  
* Awards and honors/achievement (optional)
* References (optional)

We will now provide you with more detailed instructions on each of these sections, which are essential in your CV.

### **Personal information**

Near the top of your CV, you should include your name, email address, date of birth, phone number, and nationality. Remember to write your name in bold type at the beginning.

### **Personal profile statement**

In this section, you can provide employers with more information about your traits, specific skills, experience, and field of study. Additionally, you can mention your dream job, which should be related to the position you are applying for. Keep this section brief, around 5-7 sentences, as a CV is typically only one page long. However, this section is optional, and you should consider whether you want to include it based on the space available in your CV.

### **Work experience and education**

You don't need to focus too much on the order of these two sections. However, in the working experience section, you should write all the information in chronological order, with the latest experience coming first.

For example, you can present your experience based on the years' order (2020 -> 2019 -> 2018). With each position, try to include the company's name, working duration, and a simple description of your tasks (including the main points, if possible).

### **Awards and honors/achievements**

To make a good impression on your CV, mention some achievements or awards that you're most proud of. But this section is optional, which means you don’t have to include it in your CV. This section is not only about the awards you've received in the past few years, but also the achievements in your most recent job. For example, if you're applying for a sales position, you should add the percentage of growth you achieved thanks to your skills or management.

### **Qualifications and skills**

When it comes to job applications, qualifications and skills can be considered interchangeable. However, in some cases, they are different from each other depending on the job description. Qualifications refer to the requirements to get the job, whereas skills are often used as a plus to make your CV more impressive and potential.

For example, when applying for a marketing executive position, you must have a strong knowledge of marketing, which is the qualification. But to impress employers, you need to have communication or critical thinking skills.

### **References**

It's not very common in Germany to include references from your former managers in the CV. However, if your former managers or professors can write you a letter of recommendation, it would be great. If you do include references in your CV, make sure you provide necessary information such as their phone numbers, occupation, etc. Here are some examples for you:
* Reference name
* Company name 
* Job title 
* Street address
* City postcode 
* Tel 
* Email

For the content, the references should be relevant to your last job and include necessary information such as their phone numbers and occupations. Your previous superiors need to know you professionally and understand your character. These sections will define your CV as trustworthy for employers.

![EDUBAO_3302_M2.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/55e060fa-bf66-4a14-a47d-7694803bfeac/edubao-3302-m2.jpg 'EDUBAO_3302_M2.jpg')

## **Other important notes you should take into account!**

ur Curriculum Vitae should not be more than 2 pages. Try to keep it concise and brief for employers since they do not have much time to analyze it all.

Remember to have your signature at the end because it is a required standard for any German CVs.

Decorations may not be useful for German CVs. It is more important to focus on the structure and content of your CV.

It is quite normal to edit your CV for different applications. Different companies will have different requirements for each position. So, do not forget to read the job description carefully first. Your CV has to be tailored to the employers' needs.

Each point in your CV must be related to the application goal. Your hobbies should be included to highlight your potential.

It is not obligatory to put your profile photo in your CV, but if you do, use one in which you look professional! Otherwise, you are going to leave a bad impression!

## **Conclusion**

Your CV is the first impression you make on your employers. When writing a CV, it is important to structure and present your information clearly and concisely. An effective CV will offer you more chances to find a good job in Germany.

Curriculum Vitae (CV for short) or "Lebenslauf" in German plays an integral role in the job search. Even when you apply for universities in Germany, you are also asked to submit your CV so that they can get an overview of your past study and work experience. In this article, EDUBAO will provide some guidelines for you to create a good CV.

How to Write a Good German CV for Your Job Application

You made it: your studies. And then? The time between studies and work often provides space for orientation as to what your prospects and career should look like. Foreign graduates of a German university have access to the German labor market and can get their residence permit extended for up to 18 months after completing their studies if they are looking for a job that suits their graduation (legal basis: § 20 Absatz 3 Nr 1 AufenthG). 

Work Opportunities in Germany after Graduation

If you plan to work in Germany after graduation, it is never too early to start preparing for your job search. With the mindset of being forearmed is being forewarned, EDUBAO has prepared an article to help you figure out what to do. In this article, we provide useful suggestions to help you successfully secure a job in Germany.

Are you ready? Read on to see how to do a job search in Germany!

## **How do I start my job search?**
![EDUBAO_6302_Body1.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/c43bd495-5715-4d0c-a0a9-eb3ff330072c/edubao-6302-body1.jpg 'EDUBAO_6302_Body1.jpg')

### **Analyze yourself** 

Before you set out to search for a job, take the time to ask yourself the following questions:
* In which country do you want to work?
* In which city do you want to work? Do you want to stay where you study or move to another city that you dream of?
* Which kind of company do you want to work for? Big or small ones?
* What kind of job do you want to take? Full-time or part-time? Or do you want to be a “Freiberufler” (freelancer) in Germany?
* Do you still want to work in the area in which you have studied? Or do you want to extend your field of knowledge?
* What salary would make you happy?
 
### **Try to know yourself better** 

There are several psychological tests available online, especially designed for graduates or students before they start their careers. These tests aim to help you learn more about your character and soft skills, which are usually displayed in a graphic or chart as results.

Popular tests from Bundesagentur für Arbeit are quite helpful if you want to visualize your career path. They offer different tests, such as “Selbstentdeckungstool” and “Berufswahl.” For further information, you can check [here](https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/bildung/ausbildung/welche-berufe-passen). 

![EDUBAO_6302_body2.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/7577254f-eef0-4ffe-9fac-1a389fce56bb/edubao-6302-body2.jpg 'EDUBAO_6302_body2.jpg')

One of the most popular personality tests is the DISC test (German: DISG Test). The test measures various aspects of your personality related to your behavior and perception in specific work situations. The questions presented will describe different scenarios, and you will have to choose the responses that are most like you and least like you. The results of this test will categorize your personality into four aspects: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance.

Dominance reflects your approach to problem-solving and control in a given situation. Influence pertains to your ability to handle interpersonal communication. Steadiness describes your level of patience, persistence, and thoughtfulness. Compliance reflects your level of organization when it comes to handling activities and responsibilities.

Once you complete the test, your results will be presented in a pie chart format. The highest percentage will correspond to your most prevalent character trait, and so on. The test is useful because it provides an idea of how you are likely to behave in future workplaces, such as whether you are task-oriented or relationship-oriented. Based on this understanding of your personality traits, you can select jobs that best match your profile.

## **Where can I search for a job?** 

There are several ways to search for a job:
* **Job search websites:** You can search for job opportunities on websites such as Indeed, Monster, Stepstone, LinkedIn, Bundesagentur für Arbeit, and job-searching websites in your home country. Simply enter the relevant keywords and location to find suitable job openings.
* **Seek advice from friends and seniors:** You can also seek advice from friends and seniors who have experience looking for a job. They may have practical tips and suggestions that can help you in your job search.
* **Consult with professors and lecturers:** Your professors and lecturers are experts in your field of study and may have a network of contacts that can offer you special job opportunities. Take advantage of their expertise and experience.
* **Attend job fairs and conventions:** Job fairs and conventions for graduates are held regularly in Germany. If you are interested in working in a specific city, you can search for information about job fairs in that area. It is advisable to book entrance tickets early to secure your place and prepare adequately.
* **Check social media:** Your social media platforms can also be a good source of information on job opportunities. For example, there are job search groups on Facebook where you can find job postings and directly contact potential employers.
* **Look at the Schwarzes Brett (Blackboard):** You can find blackboards everywhere at your university, such as in the canteen, professors' offices, halls, etc. Apart from accommodation or lost and found items, you may also find part-time or full-time job postings. The blackboard in your institute's office building may have useful information related to your major.
* **Visit the Career Centre at your university:** The Career Centre usually has a database of job vacancies that you can access. The Career Service can also provide free advice on how to update your application documents, interview techniques, and inform you about company presentations to help you launch your career.
 
Don't worry if you come across a situation where there are no vacancies for your dream job or company at the moment, as there's something called an innovative online application. In other words, you can try sending your application files, such as your CV and cover letter, along with a note about your desired position in the company. If there is a vacancy later and your qualifications meet their requirements, you will be contacted. We suggest you start your application early, ideally six months in advance.

For more information about "Application files," don't hesitate to read [this article](https://edubao.org/blog/how-to-prepare-your-job-application-folder-bewerbungsunterlagen).

### **Job search websites in Germany:**

* [Bundesagentur für Arbeit](https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/privatpersonen)
* [Indeed](https://de.indeed.com/)
* [Monster](https://www.monster.de/)
* [Stepstone](https://www.stepstone.de/)
* [jobber](https://www.jobber.de/)
* [absolventa](https://www.absolventa.de/)
* [connecticum jobbörse](https://www.connecticum.de/)
* [unicum](https://www.unicum.de/)
* [campusjäger](https://www.campusjaeger.de/) 
* [yourfirm](https://www.yourfirm.de/)


## **Other Qualifications** 
![EDUBAO_6302_Body3.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/bcc7d89c-f7a8-4188-acf0-c14e253cfc8b/edubao-6302-body3.jpg 'EDUBAO_6302_Body3.jpg')

### **German and English** 

The required language for a position is usually indicated in the job advertisement. However, speaking another foreign language is undoubtedly a plus. Due to globalization, English has become one of the most important languages worldwide, especially in fields like international business, IT, consulting, etc. If you are a student studying in English, you may enjoy speaking some German words during conversations with your German colleagues!

If you are still struggling to decide whether it is worth learning German or English, please don't hesitate anymore! Take a language course at a language center and improve your English or German skills! EDUBAO's tips for taking a German course can be found in [this article](https://edubao.org/blog/german-language-to-study-in-germany).


### **Soft skills** 
 
Soft skills such as intercultural competence, communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence play a vital role in job applications. Although not strictly related to professional skills, they are crucial for employers to assess your personality type and your likely reactions to various work-related challenges.

Like hard skills, soft skills can be developed through workshops or practice. We suggest attending workshops during your job search and in your free time to improve your soft skills.
 
## **Key takeaways from this article** 
Start your job search early, ideally four months before finishing your studies.
Conduct a self-assessment.
Keep your options open.
Make use of the career services provided by your university.
Utilize career fairs and employment agencies.
Make sure you are proficient in either German or English by taking language courses during your studies.

If you are from a non-Europe country, you need to check if you can stay in Germany for 18 months to look for a job, and if you can, when this 18-month period starts. You should also check for visa requirements for job seekers in Germany and proceed with the application on time. Otherwise, you would get into unwanted legal issues.

How to Start Preparing for a Job Search in Germany?

Want to get more network for your job search? Come to the career fairs in Germany!

In this article, EDUBAO will guide you on career fairs and how to benefit from them. Let’s get started!
## **Research in advance is important!**
![EDUBAO_6306_M1.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/71789972-3684-477a-9f44-5f718dee0e7d/edubao-6306-m1.jpg 'EDUBAO_6306_M1.jpg')

To really benefit from a career fair, you should go to the homepage of the fair and look at the exhibiting companies as well as their fields and the positions they offer. Then, you need to think about how to present yourself to the employer beforehand.

The next step is creating a schedule for meeting your favorite companies. We recommend that you prepare intensively for five potential employers rather than blindly targeting too many companies. Plan at least 30 minutes for an effective exchange with each company. Think in advance of questions similar to those asked during a job interview, such as:
* What image does the company want to convey through advertising and public relations?
* What is the corporate culture?
* What long-term goals does the company want to pursue in the next few years?
* What training opportunities will you be offered?

## **First contact**
Have you found interesting companies? Is your timetable scheduled?

If so, you should contact the companies you are interested in before going to the career fair, either on the job fair's homepage or by email.

You should arrange your appointments in the morning when the employers have not been asked the same questions as often and can better adapt to you. Do not plan to visit your dream company first. Instead, practice establishing contacts, self-presentation, and conversation with an employer who is less important to you.
 
## **Prepare application documents**

Prepare an application folder containing a cover letter specifically addressing the company, a current CV, and copies of certificates to hand over to the recruiter directly after your meeting at the job fair. We recommend a short cover letter and a one-page CV with your latest photo to take along. EDUBAO also provides another article on how to write a good German CV. [Don’t forget to check it out!](https://edubao.org/blog/how-to-write-a-good-german-cv-for-your-job-application)

 ## **Communication during the career fair**
Even if the atmosphere at a career fair is more informal than during a job interview, remember to dress appropriately! For men, a suit with a white or dark shirt is suitable, but a tie is not necessary. Women should opt for a business outfit with a blazer or cardigan. Avoid mini skirts or shorts!

At the career fair, always behave politely and professionally, whether you are talking to the stand manager or a receptionist. Before handing over your application folder to employers, give them a chance to learn more about you and differentiate yourself from the numerous visitors. Maintain the appropriate distance from the person you are talking to (about one meter). Your entire appearance provides recruiters with clues about your social skills.

After the fair, keep in touch with recruiters. You can email them within two days to express your gratitude for the interview and reiterate your interest in working for the companies.

![EDUBAO_6306_M2.jpg](https://cloud.squidex.io/api/assets/edubao/5951774a-4734-4218-a9bc-6cb84df8761e/edubao-6306-m2.jpg 'EDUBAO_6306_M2.jpg')

## **The career fair list**
There are many career fairs that differ not only in their core target group and the industry selection of exhibitors, but also in the design of the framework program. Some fairs focus on specific sectors, such as engineering or computer science, which limits the target audience of exhibitors and visitors. We have listed the most important job fairs for you at a glance: [bonding Studenteninitiative](https://firmenkontaktmesse.de/),  [MessenInfo](https://www.messeninfo.de/Firmenkontaktmessen-Y115-S1.html), [Firmenkontaktmesse Magdeburg](http://www.firmenkontaktmesse-magdeburg.de/), [CAREER Venture Recruiting-Events](https://www.career-venture.de/), [KISS ME Die Karrieremesse](https://www.kissme-hannover.de/ueber/das-projekt/), [Nacht der Unternehmen](https://nachtderunternehmen.de/aachen/), [Jobmesse Berlin](https://www.berliner-jobmesse.de/#STARTSEITE), [SinoJobs Career Days](https://www.sinojobs-careerdays.com/en/), [automotive TopCareer](https://www.automotive-topcareer.de/), [Karriere-Tag “ZEIT für Neue Ärzte”](https://verlag.zeit.de/veranstaltungen/ausblick/freunde-der-zeit/zeit-fuer-neue-aerzte/), [Online-Karrieretag](https://online-karrieretag.de/), [Lange Nacht der Industrie](https://www.langenachtderindustrie.de/), [jobvector career day](https://www.jobvector.com/karrieremesse/), [Stuzubi](https://www.stuzubi.de/), [Absolventenkongress in Köln](https://machwasduliebst.absolventenkongress.de/), [EXPOLINGUA](https://www.expolingua.com/), [HORIZON](https://horizon-messe.de/), [campus meets companies](https://campusmeetscompanies.de/), [Karrieretag Familienunternehmen](https://www.karrieretag-familienunternehmen.de/), [Jobtournee](https://jobtournee.de/), [Operation Karriere](https://www.operation-karriere.de/), [X-Day](https://xday.campusx.org/), [Vocatium](https://www.vocatium.de/), [Die LGBT+ Job- & Karrieremesse STICKS & STONES](https://www.sticks-and-stones.com/home2/), [DEINE JOBMESSE](https://www.deine-jobmesse.de/), [Berufsstart](https://www.berufsstart.de/jobmessen/), etc.

Have you found the right career fair for you? Then check the most important points again:
* Research the companies presenting at the fair, their job offers, and supporting programs.
* Create a schedule.
* Arrange appointments.
* Intensively prepare for a few employers.
* Complete application documents.
* Dress appropriately.
* Convince at the appointments.
* Sort out documents after the fair.
* Contact recruiters again by email.

Furthermore, you can inform yourself at the Career Center of your university, which provides a variety of services to help students, including training courses in time management, intercultural competence, sales competence, self-assessment, and more. The Career Center also forwards internship and job opportunities and organizes career fairs at the university.

Do you find this information useful? We hope you do. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to drop EDUBAO a message. We are here to help!

Many of you may have heard about career fair as a student, right? It is also known as a trade fair, which usually takes place in Germany. A career fair is designed to facilitate contact between students, job seekers, and companies in the field of business, research, engineering, etc. You can search career fairs by German keywords, such as Karrieremesse, Jobmesse, Berufsmesse, Karrieretag, Firmenkontaktmesse, Unternehmenskontaktmesse, Absolventenmesse, etc.