How to find a job in Germany without speaking German
You've recently moved to Germany, perhaps after finishing your degree, and you only know a few words of German. Now what? If you’re wondering how to get a job in Germany with little to no German skills, try out these tips!
How to find a job in Germany
Much like other countries, the job market in Germany is challenging, especially if you don't speak German. But getting a job in Germany isn't impossible if you are dedicated and know where to look. Make sure to update your resume and create cover letters before you start the job application process.
Do I need to know German to find a job in Germany?
No! You truly don't need to have German language skills to find a fantastic job in Germany. Although tons of German companies require German speakers, the German job market is also full of English-speaking companies. Even if you don't speak a word of German, you don't need to worry as there are English-speaking jobs out there.
Connect with other internationals and find out where they’re working.
Meeting other internationals is more effective for your job search than you’d think. The best way to do this is by joining a German course, attending meet-ups, finding friends on BumbleBFF, or joining Facebook groups.
The best way to increase your chances of finding a job is by taking a German course. German courses are usually full of international people who work English-speaking jobs, so it's perfect for networking.
I once met a nice Spanish girl in my German class and we talked about work and how I was jobless and endlessly searching. She ended up helping me apply for a position and even recommended me to her boss. It’s all about connections my friends!
Note- Employment in Germany for foreigners is way easier in Berlin!
Although Berlin isn't for everyone, it's definitely the best place to get an English-speaking job in Germany
Berlin, Germany is an absolute oasis for English speakers. There are countless English-speaking companies here that need native English speakers.
Berlin is also home to over 10,000 startups. Your chances of getting a job here are even greater if you want to work in tech or marketing.
Frankfurt and Munich also have English-speaking companies, but not as many as Berlin. Prepare for greater competition in these cities, as the demand for English jobs is probably higher.
Another option for finding work in Germany: Find freelance and even full-time jobs on Upwork.
Upwork is a website full of small-large projects and jobs, ranging from quick projects to part-time or full-time positions. You create a profile and apply to any jobs or projects that interest you. You send a proposal to the companies with your expected wage and convince them that you’re the perfect fit.
Companies will also sometimes reach out to you if they want you to apply for their open positions. (This is how I got one of my first jobs in Germany).
Use LinkedIn and Indeed
There are many different platforms you can use to find a job in Germany, but the best ones are LinkedIn and Indeed. Here you will find the most English-speaking roles and international companies.
There are other platforms such as Xing.de, but the roles listed here are usually German-speaking.
Message and email job posters
Just like anywhere else, standing out is essential for landing a job in Germany. Every time you apply for a job, message the job poster or send them an email to show your interest. Although you won’t always receive replies, it only takes one little message to make a difference.
How to get a job in Germany as an American
If you’re American and looking for a job in Germany, use the tips mentioned above! It's also a good idea to check if your job qualifications are valid in Germany. This will be important if you have licenses for beauty, education, law, health, and more.
As you probably know by now, Germany has its way of doing things, as all countries do. Some of your qualifications won’t automatically transfer to Germany, which you will need to know for your job search.
For example, you might be a licensed teacher or lawyer in the US, but that doesn’t mean you will be in Germany.
How to Find a Job In Germany - Wrapped Up
No matter if you’re wondering how to get a job in Germany as an American, European, African, or more, the steps you need to take are the same. Job hunts are never easy but with a little determination and strategy, you’ll find an English-speaking job in Germany in no time.
Other ways to make money in Germany if you don’t speak German
Besides finding a full-time role, there are other things you can do to make extra cash while living in Germany. Here is a quick brainstorm of ideas and English-speaking jobs you could do to make money in Germany:
- Create your own business (not easy by no means lol, but it’s still an idea)
- Join English Facebook groups for the city you’re living in. Sometimes people post job offers that you wouldn’t have found otherwise
- Become an English teacher. Teach kids at an international school (where the language of instruction is English). Germany is full of these, especially in bigger cities like Berlin and Munich.
- English tutoring sessions (many non-native speakers are always looking to improve their English skills, so the demand for tutors is higher than you think)Become a babysitter/nanny for German kids (whose parents want them to learn English)
Start your career in Germany
Germany is a fantastic place to start your career. Employment in Germany for foreigners is arguably the best in the EU. There are so many opportunities here, so if you want to move abroad Germany is a fantastic option.
Although getting a job in Germany can be a daunting and exhausting process, don't give up and keep searching! Best of luck with your search and check out my other blog posts for tips about life in Germany!
Germany FAQs
Is it easy to get a job in Germany without speaking German?
No, I would say it is not easy to get a job in Germany without speaking German. But where is it easy to get a job nowadays? The good news, though, is that many international companies in Germany love hiring native English speakers.
What jobs can I get in Germany if I only speak English?
If you only speak English, don't worry! There are many jobs in Germany for English speakers. Check out LinkedIn and Indeed, these platforms have the most international companies. The most common jobs are probably in marketing or tech.
Is it hard for foreigners to get a job in Germany?
It's not easy but it's also not impossible! There are multiple job opportunities in Germany for foreigners, you just have to put in the work!
Is it easy to get around Germany without speaking German?
This depends on the city! For smaller German cities, I would recommend learning German because it will make your life much easier. You might get by without German in Berlin and possibly Munich, but elsewhere, it's more crucial.
