If you have to do a job interview in German, there are some important preparations and tips that can help you be successful. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Practice your language skills: If German is not your native language, it’s important to practice your language skills. You can do this by having conversations with German-speaking people, reading and writing in German, or joining a language school.
2. Research the company: Thoroughly researching the company can help you understand what the company does, what position you’re applying for, and what the employer’s expectations are for the candidate.
3. Prepare for typical questions: Think about typical questions that may be asked during an interview and prepare answers. This may include questions about your professional experiences, skills, strengths, weaknesses, and motivation for working for the company.
4. Dress and appearance: Make sure you are appropriately dressed and groomed. A clean and professional appearance can make a positive impression on the employer.
5. Etiquette: An interview follows certain etiquette rules. Be on time, polite, and respectful. Avoid unnecessary distractions, such as constantly tapping on your phone. Ask questions if you are unsure or need information.
6. Mock interviews: You can also schedule a mock interview with a friend or a professional advisor to prepare for the interview. This can give you feedback on your demeanor and answers, and help reduce your nervousness.
7. Adapt to the interviewer: Adapt to the interviewer. Make sure you understand the level of the interviewer and adjust accordingly.

By following these steps, you can prepare for a job interview in German and go into the conversation with more confidence and success.

The right answer to trick questions at the job interview

Trick questions in job interviews are designed to catch you off guard and see how you react under pressure. However, it’s important to remember that there is no one “right” answer to a trick question. The interviewer is not necessarily looking for a specific answer, but rather, they want to see how you think on your feet and how you handle unexpected situations.

Here are some tips for answering trick questions in a job interview:

1. Take a moment to think: If you are asked a trick question, take a moment to gather your thoughts and think about your answer. It’s better to take a few seconds to consider your response than to blurt out something that you’ll regret later.
2. Stay calm: Don’t let a trick question throw you off your game. Take a deep breath and stay calm and composed. Remember, the interviewer is not trying to trip you up, but rather, they want to see how you handle pressure.
3. Be honest: Don’t try to give a fake or overly rehearsed answer. Be honest and authentic in your response, and explain your thought process to the interviewer.
4. Ask for clarification: If you don’t understand a question or need more information to answer it, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. This shows that you are engaged in the conversation and want to make sure you provide an accurate response.
5. Use examples: If possible, use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your answer. This can help you demonstrate your skills and abilities in a tangible way.

Remember, the key to answering trick questions is to stay calm, be honest, and show your thought process. With the right mindset and preparation, you can navigate any trick question that comes your way in a job interview.

To be perfectly prepared for your interview, be sure to take an online English course and have your resume and cover letter translated into German by one of our professional native-speaker translators.