Guide
The application guide: your journey to the contract
From the first search to the signature: this guide walks you through the entire application journey — job search, CV, cover letter, interview and contract negotiation. Practical, current and to the point.
1. The job search: strategy over scattergun
- Use several channels: job boards and company career pages, plus networks like LinkedIn and XING.
- The “hidden” job market: a substantial share of roles is reportedly never advertised publicly and is filled through referrals and networks (the often-quoted 70% figure is a rough estimate, not a proven fact). The takeaway: relationships pay off.
- Network authentically: genuine interest beats collecting business cards — exchange with people in your target field, comment helpfully, ask for advice.
- Quality over quantity: a few well-tailored applications beat mass mailing.
- Stay organised: keep a simple table (company, date, status, next step) and follow up politely.
2. The convincing CV
- Clear structure: contact details, a short profile, work experience (reverse-chronological), education, skills/languages.
- Achievements over duties — with numbers: not “responsible for customer service” but “reduced handling time by 30%”. Quantified results are demonstrably stronger.
- Tailor to the role: many companies use applicant tracking software (ATS) that filters for matching terms. Mirror exact keywords from the posting (without “keyword stuffing”) and use a clean, readable layout.
- Length: usually 1–2 pages; in Germany, more detailed, gap-free CVs (often 2–3 pages) are common.
- Photo: widely used and expected by many in Germany — but legally optional (anti-discrimination law). In many other countries (e.g. the US, UK) a photo is unusual. Decide by market.
- Care: up to date, error-free, consistent.
3. The cover letter
- Refer specifically to the company and the advertised task — show you understand what is needed.
- Back up your strengths with a short example instead of adjectives.
- Keep it to one page, clear and personal.
4. Preparing for the interview
- Research: know the company, product, recent developments and your interviewers.
- Stories with the STAR method: prepare 3–5 examples and tell them as Situation – Task – Action – Result. Aim for 60–120 seconds per answer.
- Practise common questions: “tell me about yourself”, strengths/weaknesses, a conflict, a failure, why you.
- Video interview: test tech, lighting, a calm background and look into the camera.
- Ask your own questions: e.g. “What does success look like in the first 6 months?”, about the team, onboarding and development — it shows interest and helps your decision.
- Follow up: a short, friendly thank-you note leaves a good impression.
5. Salary & contract negotiation
- Don’t accept immediately: your greatest leverage is between offer and acceptance. Politely ask for a little time to consider.
- Research your market value: salary reports and portals (e.g. Glassdoor, Gehalt.de/StepStone data, Levels.fyi for tech) plus conversations in your network give you a realistic range.
- See the whole package: not just base salary, but holiday, training budget, remote work, bonus, pension.
- Ask with justification: if the offer is on the low side, a counter of about 10–20% is common; for a fair offer, more like 5–7% — always backed by data and your value, friendly and with clear interest in the company.
- Check the contract: probation, notice periods, holiday days, overtime/working-time rules, fixed terms, extra benefits. If unsure, get qualified advice before you sign.
6. Regional differences & your next step
By the way: professional career coaching can be free for you via an AVGS from the German employment agency. You can find out whether you qualify in a few minutes with the AVGS check.
AVGS: frequently asked questions
Much of what surrounds applications and coaching can be funded through an AVGS. The key questions answered briefly:
What is an AVGS?
An Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS) is a voucher from the German employment agency or Jobcenter under § 45 SGB III. It funds individual coaching with an AZAV-certified provider – free for you.
Who is eligible for an AVGS?
In principle the unemployed and job-seekers, but also those at risk of unemployment – regardless of whether you receive benefits. After six weeks of unemployment there may even be a legal entitlement (§ 45 (7) SGB III).
How do I apply for an AVGS?
Talk to your advisor at the employment agency or Jobcenter and say you would like coaching via an AVGS. We support you with the application and the justification.
What does the coaching cost me?
Nothing. With an AVGS the employment agency or Jobcenter covers the cost in full.
How long is an AVGS valid?
Usually several weeks from issue; the exact period and scope are stated on the voucher. You must start the coaching within that window.
Is the coaching available online?
Yes. Online coaching is legally equivalent to in-person sessions – you choose your coach by fit, not by where you live.
Free templates to download
Ready-to-use templates as Word (.docx) or PDF — free, no sign-up. (Geared to the German job market; templates are in German.)