You had a great video interview. The employer likes you. But then they say: “We would like to invite you for a Probearbeit.”
A Probearbeit (trial work) is a standard part of the hiring process for jobs in Germany. It involves working at the company for 1 to 3 days to “test” the fit.
But wait—how do you do that if you are in India or Brazil?
The Challenge for Internationals
For local candidates, they just drive over. For you, flying to Germany for 2 days is expensive and legally tricky (see our guide on Schengen visas!).
However, some employers insist on it, or you might already be in Germany on a Job Seeker Visa. Here is what happens during these days.
What Happens at a Probearbeit?
It is not about free labor. It is a “sniff test” (Schnuppertag).
- Social Fit: Do you get along with the team? Are you polite? Punctual?
- Language Check: Is your German actually B1, or did you just memorize interview answers?
- Skill Check: Can you hold a wrench? Can you use Excel? They want to see basic aptitude.
How to Impress
- Punctuality: Arrive 10 minutes early. In Germany, on time is late.
- Ask Questions: Don’t just stand there. Ask “Why do you do it this way?” It shows interest.
- Dress Code: Ask beforehand. Safety shoes for a mechanic, smart casual for an office.
- The “Du” vs “Sie”: Start with formal “Sie” until they offer you the “Du.”
Digital Alternatives
If you are abroad, ask for a Digital Assessment instead.
- Many modern companies (especially in IT) offer coding tests or remote tasks.
- For manual trades, you might send a video portfolio of you working on a project.
A staffing agency get-talent.eu in the EU can often negotiate to skip the Probearbeit or replace it with a more in-depth video interview, vouching for your skills to the employer.
References
- I Am Expat: German Business Culture
- Make it in Germany: Application process