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In our most recent newsletters, we have discussed CVs and cover letters in detail. This time, we'll be discussing what to pay attention to and what can be left out in a job application.
Personal information
When applying for jobs in Germany, there are a few differences compared to other countries. For example, no information is provided regarding physical characteristics (height, weight) or family background (parents' names and dates of birth). Information regarding marital status or religious affiliation is generally not considered necessary either. A professional headshot, on the other hand, is not required, but can be advantageous – especially since they are still commonly used in Germany.
Especially important for applicants from abroad: Your phone number and email address must be reliably reachable. The international country code should be included with the phone number. Those who are still abroad can also explicitly state in their resume that they are available for an online interview.
It can also be helpful to include in a cover letter information about when a move to Germany would be possible.
Translations
A common pitfall in international job applications is documents in other languages. However, a certified German translation of every document is not always required for the application itself.
Online applications: PDFs instead of document chaos
Most job applications are now submitted online – either by email or through a job portal. The employer's guidelines are always decisive.
Anyone who sends documents via email should make sure the PDF documents are well-organized.
Instead of uploading ten separate files with ambiguous filenames, it often makes sense to combine the documents into a single, well-organized application PDF – unless the company specifies otherwise.
Examples of file names:
Max_Mustermann_Bewerbung_Mechaniker.pdf
or for individual documents:
Max_Mustermann_CV.pdf
Max_Mustermann_Anschreiben.pdf
Max_Mustermann_Abschlusszeugnis.pdf
Before sending, you should check the following:
- Are all the pages legible?
- Are the documents complete?
- Have you double checked name and contact information?
- Is the correct position or company listed?
- Do links and phone numbers work?
- Was the most recent version of the CV really used?
- Are files in the format requested by the employer?
- Is the file size within the allowed range?
You should already have these documents “on hand”
Even though they don't always have to be sent along with the application, it's a good idea to have the following documents available early on in digital form and – if necessary – as originals:
- Application materials
- current CV
- text of the email
- diplomas
- employment references or proof of employment
- Further education certificates
- language certificates
- references and work samples, if applicable
For international applications, please also include
- proof of foreign professional or academic qualifications
- grade summaries or diploma supplement/transcript of records
- translations, if necessary
- notification of recognition, if applicable
- proof of German language proficiency
- if applicable, proof of authorization to practice the profession
- information or documents for the subsequent residency or visa application process
Keep in mind: Not every document automatically belongs in your application. The key factors are the job posting, the position, and individual qualifications.
Text to include when sending the application by email
Please note that the email containing the application materials should be sent from a legitimate email address, such as Firstname.Lastname@emailprovider.com.
The subject line of the email should include the keyword “Bewerbung” (application) as well as a reference number, if applicable, and the job title.
The text itself can be kept brief – it should not repeat the information provided in the accompanying cover letter. However, it serves as a brief introduction to the application:
Zitat:"Anbei erhalten Sie meine Bewerbungsunterlagen für die ausgeschriebene Position als XXX .(Please find attached my application materials for the advertised position as XXX.)
Mein vollständiges Anschreiben, meinen Lebenslauf sowie relevante Zeugnisse finden Sie im Anhang als PDF-Datei. (Please find my complete cover letter, resume, and relevant certificates attached as PDF files.) Für eine Arbeitsaufnahme stehe ich Ihnen ab dem XXX zur Verfügung.” (I will be available to start work as of XXX.)
Checklist
Before submitting their applications, applicants should check the following:
- Voraussetzung:Read the job posting carefully
- Voraussetzung:Followed the employer’s application instructions
- Voraussetzung:Resume is up-to-date and no more than two to three pages long
- Voraussetzung:Contact information includes the international dialing code
- Voraussetzung:Work experience and qualifications are clearly presented
- Voraussetzung:Language skills listed with proficiency level/certificate
- Voraussetzung:Cover letter tailored specifically to the position
- Voraussetzung:Relevant diplomas and certificates compiled
- Voraussetzung:Translation needs assessed
Recognition procedures researched, if applicable - Voraussetzung:Residence or work permit checked, if applicable
- Voraussetzung:PDF files checked and appropriately named
- Voraussetzung:Spelling and formatting checked
- Voraussetzung:Documents proofread by a second person (optional)
Additional information:
Application Information from the Federal Employment Agency of Germany (website only available in German)
Newsletter articles mentioned above: