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How to Secure an Internship in Germany

Saurabh Bagh
Internship in Germany

How to Secure an Internship in Germany

Finding an internship in Germany is a feasible task, thanks to the plethora of valuable online resources at your disposal. However, for those who might not be aware of these resources, it’s essential to explore the options available. There are two primary categories of internships in Germany: Mandatory internships, which earn you academic credit from your university, and Voluntary internships, which provide valuable experience but don’t count towards your coursework. Thus, obtaining an internship is highly recommended for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and skills.

To fulfil the practical component of your degree and significantly boost your employability, securing an internship in Germany is crucial. This comprehensive guide provides all the pertinent information on how to find an internship in Germany.

Discover the perfect internship with these six steps:

Step 1: Define Your Objectives Before Beginning Your Search

Before embarking on your internship search, take a moment for self-reflection. Clearly identify the field of study you wish to pursue and your career goals. Developing a professional vision can be beneficial. For instance, you might aspire to work as a software manager for a prominent German automotive company. Build your internship criteria around this vision and assess your current knowledge and skills. Ask yourself the following questions:

  1. What steps should I take to progress toward my desired position?
  2. Which industries and sectors do I want to gain more insights into?
  3. What are my strengths and weaknesses?
  4. What qualifications and skills do I need?
  5. What competencies have I already acquired, and which ones do I need to develop further?
  6. What are my expectations for an internship? Do I aim to expand my professional network or skill set?

Step 2: Specify Your Internship Guidelines

Once you have a clearer understanding of your internship goals, both personal and professional, outline the framework requirements. Address the following questions:

  1. Do you require a mandatory or voluntary internship?
  2. What is the minimum duration of the internship, and when must it be completed?
  3. Are there other commitments, such as ongoing studies, that you need to accommodate during the internship? What are your priorities?
  4. What level of compensation can you anticipate from the internship, and can you afford it?
  5. Are you open to a specific geographical area for your internship search, or are you flexible?

Step 3: Conduct a Systematic Internship Search

Based on your well-defined goals and criteria, initiate your internship search using various channels and methods:

  1. Meinpraktikum.de
  2. UNICUM
  3. Stepstone
  4. Schülerpraktikum
  5. Stellenwerk
  6. Jobworld
  7. Jobbörse
  8. Praktikum.info
  9. Connecticum
  10. Industrie- und Handelskammern (IHK)
  11. Indeed
  1. Connecticum
  2. Bonding
  3. Absolventenkongress
  4. Akademika
  5. Stuzubi
  6. Konaktiva
  7. Einstieg

Step 4: Review Job Postings

The job posting itself contains essential information about the internship. It should include a detailed description of the tasks you will be responsible for during the internship. A well-constructed internship advertisement strikes a balance between providing sufficient information and not being overly brief. Too much brevity may indicate uncertainty on the employer’s part, while excessive detail might suggest it’s a regular job position. Scrutinize the tasks to ensure they align with your expectations. Additionally, the posting should mention the internship’s duration, compensation, and prerequisites.

Step 5: Assess Company Fit

When you come across intriguing internship prospects, refrain from immediately applying. Instead, take the time to evaluate whether the organization is a suitable match for you. Gather information about the company from its website, social media profiles, press materials, brochures, employee publications, and press kits. External sources such as press reports can also provide valuable insights. This comprehensive understanding will aid you in tailoring your interview or cover letter effectively. Ask yourself the following questions:

  1. Do my values align with the company’s philosophy?
  2. What is the company’s reputation in the public eye? Working for a recognized company can enhance your CV and make a stronger impression on recruiters.
  3. What are the expectations for employees, and do I meet them?
  4. What are the company’s core activities, and how can I expand my knowledge and skills there?
  5. How large is the company?

Step 6: Submit a Thoughtful Application

Although the internship search may be time-consuming, it lays a critical foundation for the subsequent application process. With a clear understanding of your priorities and your prospective internship employer’s expectations, you can streamline the application process. This preparation will make composing a cover letter and performing well in interviews much easier, as you can directly relate to the job requirements.

Internships offer invaluable experiences for students, providing insights into the professional world and future expectations. They allow you to gain work experience while still in school and establish valuable connections for your future career. It’s essential to understand how to find the right internship program in Germany. When applying for internships or jobs in an unfamiliar country, staying well-informed about various factors is crucial.

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