How can I find a job after graduating?

After finishing a professional qualification, you will have a better chance of finding a good job. There are some work fields, however, where finding your first job may be more difficult.

In general, employers are looking for people who already have practical/professional experience. Most study programs do not include practical experience, so it can be helpful to get this experience through internships, voluntary work or through side jobs during your studies. You may have also worked before you studied. You should include all these experiences in your job applications.

To create a good and convincing application that increases your chances of landing a job, a well-written letter of motivation and a CV are essential. Follow the links to find advice for preparing them. 

Where can I find a job?

There are a lot of websites where employers announce job positions:

• Bundesagentur für Arbeit. Job Board
• indeed.com
• Websites such as Jobboerse and careers4refugees have special forums for refugees
• Create a CV and an online profile on job search platforms like XING, LinkedIn or workeer (which has a special forum for refugees)
• If you want to work for specific companies, check their websites for job offers. If you cannot find them, you can also send them a spontaneous application. Normally, you should send it to the HR department.

You may also sign up for job offer newsletters (Verteiler) or have a look at the bulletin boards (Schwarze Bretter) in public places. 

Finally: Keep your ears and eyes open for advice from your friends and contacts. They might know about good places to work and vacant positions.