5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Germany for Work

MBA as a Stepping Stone into German Job Market

This article was first published on Business Because and written by Jonathan Oldaker.

In fact, 88% of HHL graduates choose Germany for work and start their post-MBA careers: Germany is Europe’s largest economy and the fourth-largest globally. It’s a country with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world and boasts the headquarters of multinational companies like Adidas, Allianz, and SAP. Germany’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, with widespread testing, has been widely praised. While working life is being disrupted by the pandemic globally, that shouldn’t stop you from planning your next career move.

Doing an MBA is a good way to take a year out of the workplace, future-proof yourself, and advance your career upon graduation. The question is: Where to do it?

Here are five reasons you should choose Germany for work

1. High employment rates

With an unemployment rate of 3.1%—compared with 3.6% in the US, and 8.5% in France—Germany boasts one of the lowest and most stable unemployment rates in the world. The automotive industry is the country’s largest employer, with Volkswagen leading the way—employing 645,000 people.

Ensuring jobs remain stable is typical of the German approach to collective purpose. A crucial part of German work culture, ‘Wir-gefühl’, or group cohesiveness, cements the importance of the team over the individual.

2. Diverse and exciting industries

The German automotive industry is well-known for being one of the largest in Europe, let alone the world. In 2018 alone, Germany exported 4 million cars, comprising a total value of $244 billion.

But it’s not Germany’s only booming industry.

In recent years, Germany has become a hotbed for tech companies. Music streaming giant Soundcloud has its headquarters in Berlin, alongside Silicon Allee—a community for entrepreneurs that typifies the thriving tech startup scene. Not just limited to the capital, Leipzig is a hive for entrepreneurial activity, too. With an estimated 200-250 startups, it is cashing in on growing tech opportunities.

Tech and e-commerce is the most popular career path for HHL Leipzig MBA grads, where 25% of students are entering the industry. Martina Beermann, former Director of Career Development at HHL Leipzig, outlines how Germany offers a diverse range of careers that you could benefit from. “While most other schools have a high percentage of students go into consulting, we see a more diverse range of job roles for MBAs,” Martina says.

Navigating contacts in Germany is important in making the most of the vibrant economy. Tapping into HHL Leipzig’s 3,000-strong alumni network is a great way of finding guidance, knowledge, and further career opportunity. “The MBA teaches students how to network and explore the market,” Martina explains. “It’s a trustful relationship and one where students and alumni learn from each other.”

3. Opportunities for global talent

Germany is an international destination not just for big companies, but for students and professionals too. Big multinationals have their headquarters in Germany and seek international expertise.

International diversity is reflected in higher education. At HHL, 90% of the full-time MBA class are international students, helping lend a global outlook to much of the curriculum.

4. A truly international economy

The German economy is dependent on international trade, and has a growing global outlook. Especially within the cities of Germany, you’ll find English widely spoken—giving it a definite edge over the likes of Italy, Spain, and France, and a big reason for attracting international workers and students. Once a part of East Germany, Leipzig has certainly come a long way since the collapse of the Berlin Wall.

But if you choose Germany for work, learning the native language will certainly help. At HHL, you have the option of taking a German language course during your MBA, to give you an even stronger platform in your career.

5. A great lifestyle alongside your career

While your job is important, so too is life outside of work. Alongside the economic opportunities of Germany is a country with a great lifestyle, culture, and fantastic work-life balance.

The cost-of-living across Germany provides great value for money, but with Berlin growing increasingly expensive, Leipzig provides an attractive alternative—the cost of rent for students at HHL starts at $260 for a one-bed apartment.

If that wasn’t enough, the city boasts nearly 30,000 hectares of green space and vibrant nightlife, too. Starting a career in Germany provides a great opportunity to make the most out of an MBA, extending well beyond your job.