Translation Booka Local

10 Things To Keep In Mind When Starting A New Job In Germany

Starting a new job in Germany can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local culture, customs and sometimes language. Here are 10 things to keep in mind when starting a new job in Germany:

Punctuality is important

Germans value punctuality and expect employees to arrive on time for work and meetings. It is a good idea to plan ahead and allow for extra time to get to work, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation system.

Credits: 9gag

Dress appropriately

Business attire in Germany tends to be more formal than in some other countries. It is a good idea to dress conservatively and professionally, especially on your first few days on the job. Remember what they say, first impression is the last impression!

Learn about local customs and traditions

Familiarizing yourself with local customs and traditions can help you feel more comfortable and integrated in your new job. For example, you should know the protocol for greeting coworkers, such as shaking hands or kissing on the cheek. Here are few things you should know about the German working culture!

Be prepared to work hard

Germans are known for their work ethic, and it is expected that employees will work efficiently and effectively. It is a good idea to be proactive and take initiative in your new job, and to be willing to put in extra effort when necessary.

Respect hierarchy

German companies often have a hierarchical structure, and it is important to show respect to your superiors and follow the chain of command. You should also be mindful of your coworkers’ titles and use them when addressing or referring to them.

Communicate clearly and concisely

Germans value clear and concise communication, and it is important to be direct and to the point in your interactions with coworkers and superiors. Avoid using slang or colloquial language, and be sure to use proper grammar and vocabulary.

Take breaks

Germans are entitled to a minimum of 30 minutes of break time for every six hours of work, and it is common to take longer breaks for lunch or coffee. It is important to take breaks and rest, as this can help you stay energized and productive. And the break time which is compulsory everywhere is not paid. So better take it instead of working for free.

Get to know your coworkers

Building relationships with your coworkers can help you feel more connected and integrated in your new job. It is a good idea to make an effort to get to know your coworkers and to participate in team-building activities or social events.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If you are struggling with a task or have questions about your job, it is important to ask for help. Your coworkers and superiors will likely be happy to assist you and provide guidance.

Stay organized

Staying organized can help you stay on top of your work and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It is a good idea to create a system for keeping track of your tasks and deadlines, and to stay on top of your emails and other communication.

Overall, starting a new job in Germany can be a rewarding and enriching experience, and by keeping these tips in mind, you can set yourself up for success and feel more confident and comfortable in your new role.

If you’re a new international employee in Germany and do not speak German yet, you can book a local to assist you with language-support tasks like in-person appointments, phone calls and paperwork.

Translation Booka Local

10 Activities You Can Do In Germany On New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve, or Silvester in Germany, is a time for celebration and reflection, and there are do in Germany on many activities that you can enjoy to ring in the new year. Many people, locals and internationals, might make plan to visit other countries in Europe during these festive periods. But for those who plan to spend New Year in Germany, here are 10 ideas for things to New Year’s Eve:

Go to a party or event

There are many cities in Germany where you can go to big New Year’s Eve celebrations, including music festivals, fireworks displays, or balls. These can be a great way to celebrate with others and enjoy music, food, and drinks. Check out your local clubs as most probably all of them have special events with special DJs on this day. You might want to book your tickets in advance just to be safe.

Watch the fireworks

Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate the new year in Germany, and many cities and towns set off spectacular displays at midnight. You can find a good spot to watch the fireworks and count down to the new year with a crowd. Plan your night accordingly if you do not want to miss such a spectacular moment.

Go to a restaurant or bar

One of the activities to do on New Year’s eve in Germany is a simple dinner with your friends or loved ones. Many restaurants and bars in Germany offer special New Year’s Eve menus and events, such as live music, champagne toasts, or DJs.

Take a walk or go for a hike

If you prefer a more low-key celebration, you might consider going for a walk or a hike to take in the sights and sounds of the new year. You can either stay at home and watch the fireworks from afar, or just go out for some fresh air and peace.

Have fun with friends or family

New Year’s Eve is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with them, and you may want to host a get together at your place or at a friend’s. You can play games, watch movies, or simply spend time together chatting and catching up.

Go to a concert or show

Many cities in Germany host concerts or shows on New Year’s Eve, and you can find a wide range of entertainment options, from classical music to rock concerts to theater performances.

Take a trip

If you’re looking for an alternative way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, why not take a trip somewhere else? You can find a comfortable place to stay and relax for the night or explore the city.

Go skiing or snowboard­ing

If you’re in a region with snow during winter, you may want to hit the slopes on New Year’s Eve. You can take advantage of special deals at German winter sports resorts during the holidays.

Go to a spa or wellness center

If you want to relax and unwind on New Year’s Eve, you might consider going to a spa or wellness center. Many facilities offer special packages or deals for the holiday, and you can enjoy a massage, sauna, or other treatments to help you start the new year feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Have a movie night

If you prefer to stay home on New Year’s Eve, you might consider having a movie night. You can curl up with a blanket, some popcorn, and your favorite films and spend the evening relaxing and enjoying some quality time with your loved ones.

Have an appointment in January that requires German and you’re not fluent yet? Don`t ruin your holidays with stress! Book a local to attend the appointment for you and celebrate New Year with no worries!

Translation Booka Local

How To Spend Christmas Alone In Germany As An Expat

Being away from family and friends during the holidays can be difficult for anyone who lives abroad, especially in Germany with the cold and grey winters. However, there are things you can do to make the most of the holidays and enjoy them even if you’re alone. We gathered few ideas for you about how you can spend Christmas if you’re an expat in Germany.

Volunteering

You could volunteer your time or offer your services to people who need them. Many organizations, such as charities and churches, are looking for volunteers to assist with Christmas events and activities, and this can be a great way to connect with others and give back to the community. You can also offer your help to a neighbor, a friend, or someone else who might be alone or in need during the holiday season.

Join Traditional German Festivities

If you want to celebrate Christmas alone in Germany, you could embrace German culture by joining in traditional festivities. Germany is famous for its festive Christmas markets. These are a great way to enjoy the holidays and immerse yourself in German culture. You can also try traditional German Christmas dishes, such as roast goose or roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, or bake your own German Christmas cookies, such as Lebkuchen or Spritzgebäck.

Connect With Your Own Traditions

You can also find ways to connect with your own cultural traditions and create your own Christmas rituals. You might want to decorate your house, cook your favorite meals, watch your favorite holidays movies or TV series. If you’re not able to find any local events celebrating Christmas, you could try contacting other expats or foreigners living in your area, or joining online communities or groups that promote Christmas celebrations in your own language or country.

Invite New People to Your Christmas Dinner

You might want to invite some new people to join you. It’s not fun to spend Christmas alone, so why not invite some friends over to share the holiday cheer? Ask your friends to send out invitations to other expats that they personally know. You could even post an invitation on a community board for your city or town so that interested locals can contact you. You might even make some new friends for your kindness. If you want to save time and money, you could organize a potluck, where each person brings a different type of food. Here are some Christmas dinner ideas you might want to check!

Ultimately, the key thing to doing well at Christmas alone in Germany as an expat is to focus on what makes you happy and meaningful, and to be open minded and willing to try new things and connect with people. Whether you choose to volunteer, embrace local traditions, or celebrate your own cultural practices, there are many ways to make this holiday special and memorable even when you are on your own.

If you’re more of an adventurous type of person, you can check our latest blog on the best places to visit for Christmas in Germany.