Working in Berlin

Despite Berlin's relatively high poverty and unemployment rates, it ranks near the top of German cities when it comes to job creation. Those with the right skills and the drive have the potential to find a professional niche for themselves.

If you prefer a more formal career path, you should look into one of the many internet and media start-ups that have popped up in Berlin. The city has also taken steps to establish itself as a global competitor poised to attract high-tech, modern service companies and those in the processing industry.

With dozens of universities, colleges, and polytechnics and more than 200 research institutes, Berlin has no shortage of job opportunities in research and development. Healthcare is another industry that has many opportunities for skilled expats. 

As a final alternative, English-speaking expats should consider teaching English or working part-time in the tourism and hospitality service industries, the city's largest source of employment. These professions pay little, but are often easier to come by than freelance work or a position in a more formal sector.

Useful links

• City of Berlin – Working in Berlin

Finding a job in Berlin

You can start by using online sources to gain insight into the types of jobs available in the city and find work in Berlin. Those looking for work in niche industries will benefit from networking and contacting those already in their field in Berlin.

Speaking German is not a prerequisite for many jobs in Berlin, but some knowledge of the local language will certainly be beneficial if you're hoping to pursue a successful career in this city. 

If you're an expat moving to Berlin from outside the EU or newer EU-member states such as Bulgaria or Romania, you must ensure that you have the necessary work permit for Germany. Realistically speaking, without an EU passport or sought-after qualifications, you are unlikely to find work in Berlin, more so than in any other German city.

Useful links

• Absolventa
• Berliner Jobmarkt
• Talent Berlin

Work culture in Berlin

The work culture in Germany's capital is rather conservative. If you want to be successful and make a good impression in the local workplace, you must understand and incorporate elements of German business culture into your practices. 

Business culture in Berlin and Germany in general is formal and efficiency in the workplace is paramount. Time is money – so being punctual is important. Once the meeting begins, Germans get straight down to business and there's little room for small talk.

Punctuality and appearance are critical, so you should dress well and arrive at meetings fully prepared and on time. It's best to avoid humour, especially at first, as it can be misconstrued. You should expect to be asked detailed questions and have facts and figures on hand to back up what is being presented.

Although most Germans speak good English, many prefer to speak their language during business negotiations. If you don't speak German, you should consider hiring a translator for key meetings. Newcomers to Berlin will find that Germans are private and maintain a strict separation between their work and home life, so it will take some time to forge more personal relationships with colleagues.