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German Companies & Benefits
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Working in Germany
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If you are considering working for a German company as an international professional, it can be helpful to learn more about the peculiarities and nuances of working life in Germany. Many professionals coming from abroad are initially surprised by the differences they encounter here, but with the right knowledge, these surprises can become positive discoveries.
Companies in this video:
- Frings GmbH - Area of Expertise: Heating, sanitary and ventilation
- Schmetterling Reisen - Area of Expertise: Buscompany
- EBB Truck Servie - Area of Expertise: Truck manufacture and modification
- Elektro HD Schmitz GmbH - Area of Expertise: Electricians and electrical installations
An important aspect is break regulations. In Germany, breaks are regulated by law. If you work more than six hours a day, you are entitled to a 30-minute break. In addition to this lunch break, many companies also have shorter „coffee breaks“ in the morning and afternoon, which are not mandatory.
While teamwork is valued in many German companies, there often exists a clear and visible hierarchy. Although decisions are frequently made by superiors, feedback and opinions from team members are valued and often sought after.
One thing that stands out to many foreign professionals is the clear distinction between professional and private life in Germany. It’s not uncommon for colleagues, even after years of working together, to know little about each other’s private lives. Despite this formal nature of workplace relationships, many Germans maintain close and trusting relationships with their colleagues.
In summary, German working culture is structured, predictable, and respectful. With a deeper understanding of these aspects, you can successfully work in a German company and integrate better.
German Companies & Benefits
German Companies
& Benefits
Where coworkers become true friends
Benefit Section 1
Family and Leisure
- Parental Leave: Parents can take up to 3 years of parental leave, during which mothers and fathers receive parental allowance under certain conditions.
- Childcare Subsidy: Some employers offer financial contributions to the costs of childcare or kindergartens.
- Company Holidays: Many companies have special holiday facilities or vacation offers for their employees.
- 30 and more paid vacation days: Employees receive at least 30 vacation days per year, which is above the statutory minimum vacation in Germany. (In addition to weekends.)
Benefit Section 2
Money and goods
- Christmas Bonus: A bonus usually paid at the end of the year.
- Holiday Bonus: Additional payment or bonus before vacation.
- Employee Discounts: Discounts on products or services of the employer.
- Company Pension Scheme: Company paid private retirement provision by making contributions to a pension fund or similar facility.
- Company Car: A vehicle provided by the company that can also be used privately.
- FREE electric job bike valued at €3000: Companies offer employees an electric bicycle (E-bike) for private and professional use without the employees having to pay for it.
Benefit Section 3
Health and Incurance
- Company Doctor: A doctor who regularly visits the company to offer health checks and consultations.
- Health Programs: Courses or programs to promote health, e.g., fitness classes, nutrition counseling, etc.
- Additional Health Insurance: Some employers offer private health insurance as an additional benefit that goes beyond statutory health insurance.
- Accident Insurance: Insurance coverage for accidents during working hours and on the way to work.
Benefit Section 3
Working conditions
- Training and Further Education: Offers for professional development, e.g., courses, seminars, or workshops.
- Company Cafeteria: A place in the company where employees can get meals at discounted prices.
- Permanent employment: This refers to an employment contract without a fixed end date, providing employees with greater job security and stability in their professional position.
- Company Sports Groups: Companies often offer sports activities or groups to strengthen the sense of community and promote health.
- Free drinks and meals: Employees receive complimentary drinks (e.g., water, coffee, tea) and sometimes also snacks or meals during working hours.
- Ergonomic Workstations: Workstations designed to meet the physical needs of employees and minimize health issues.
- Sabbatical: Opportunity for employees to take an extended leave from work (e.g., several months) to focus on personal projects or relaxation.
- Real career and advancement opportunities: Companies offer clear career paths and support programs to provide employees with genuine opportunities for promotion and further development.
