The job interview in Germany

Preparation for the job interview - professionally accompanied.

Before going to Germany, TERN supports its candidates with targeted coaching to help them get to know each other.

TERN: How does a job interview work in Germany?

Fatima: The interview is usually scheduled and planned by the employer or us. In most cases, the future line manager is already there. In principle, it's like a blind date: both parties have been brought together by us and get to know each other in person for the first time at the interview, even if only virtually. If there is a spark between the two, we initiate the next steps.

TERN: What is coaching? 

Fatima: The coaching sessions are primarily about preparing candidates for the upcoming interview. We simulate a job interview and practise the answers together. They also receive information about the job and can ask personal questions. I try to take away their excitement and give them general tips on how best to present themselves to a German employer.

TERN: Do you have any tips for candidates who want to apply for an interview as a nurse? 

Fatima: It's quite natural that some people are excited. And rightly so, because this is a big and important step to take. It helps if you focus on your goals and stay calm and level-headed. Of course, you can also prepare your performance and rehearse a few times in front of the mirror. There are no guidelines for the interviews, so there are no wrong or right answers, and it usually helps candidates to change their perspective and ask themselves: Why should the employer choose you of all people? This way, the applicant focuses on their strengths and skills and makes sure to present them accordingly. Otherwise, stay cool, if you have made it to the interviews, a good 60% are already done!

TERN: What questions might arise during an interview for a foster home?

Fatima: Motivation is usually important to employers. Starting a job in your company far away from home can be a great opportunity for both, but it also involves many hurdles and difficulties. That's why both employers and candidates want to make sure it's a good fit for both of them. Questions therefore arise as to why the candidate has decided on the profession in general and what their idea of the job profile is in Germany. On the other hand, candidates often ask themselves how they will be looked after locally and where they will be accommodated.

TERN: So what should you do to ensure that the conversation goes well?

Fatima: Above all, the candidate's personal appearance and manners are important. Of course, qualifications also play a major role, but if you have already made it to the interview, it is particularly important to present yourself well and make the best possible impression.

The main purpose of the interview is to get a first personal impression of the candidate. In this profession, you have to deal with sick and weak people of all ages. It goes without saying that you look for a friendly, open and calm demeanor.

Appearance is very important, so applicants should make sure they are dressed appropriately. Even if the interview only takes place virtually, this has an influence on the evaluation of the candidates. In addition to clothing, attitude is very important and, of course, appearance. This includes, for example, not chewing gum, thanking the interviewer for inviting you to the interview and saying goodbye in a reasonable manner.

The most important thing, however, is to stay focused, answer the questions in a friendly manner and maintain a professional demeanor.

TERN: Your best anecdote from a job interview or coaching session?

Fatima: One interview will stay with me for a long time. The interview went very well so far. The candidate and the employer got on well. The interview then took a completely different course, because the candidate then expressed a concern that neither I nor the employer had expected: He had asked if he could bring his cat with him to Germany. Funnily enough, the employer also had a cat. So in the end, the conversation no longer revolved around orientation aids and finding your way in the new environment, but recommendations for cat food and scratching posts.

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