5 Essential Tips for Your First Day at Work in Germany

Feeling anxious about how to make a great impression on your first day of work? Many newcomers to Germany wonder what the dos and don’ts are when starting a new job!
Starting your first day at work can be exciting and overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating a new environment and cultural norms. With the right preparation, you can make a confident entrance—here are five essential tips to help you shine during your crucial first day.

“In Germany, efficiency and respect guide workplace interactions. Watch, learn, and adapt—your colleagues will appreciate your effort to fit in.”

How to Greet Your Colleagues

Ever hesitated on whether to shake hands or nod quietly? In Germany, greetings carry meaning: they establish respect, signal hierarchy, and open channels for future collaboration.

When you arrive at the office or log into your first remote meeting, follow these steps:

1. Mirror their style. If your supervisor offers a handshake—even in a casual start-up—give a firm, brief handshake back. In very informal teams, a simple “Hallo” with a nod can be perfect.
2. Watch for Sie vs. Du. Colleagues who introduce themselves formally with “Herr” or “Frau” expect you to stick with the formal “Sie.” If you hear “du” used by peers, it’s your cue to switch to first-name basis and the informal pronoun.
3. Adapt to setting. Some German companies maintain a clear boundary between personal and professional life: greetings happen at the door with a handshake and then straight to business. Others—especially creative industries—may allow cheek kisses or light hugs among familiar teams. Always let them make the first move.

By greeting appropriately, you demonstrate cultural awareness and set the stage for smooth interactions on your first day in Germany.

Should You Bring Presents on Your First Day?

You might be wondering if a small gift will help break the ice with your new colleagues. In many parts of the world, gifts are a symbol of goodwill—but in Germany, they must be kept simple and thoughtful.

• Opt for homemade treats. Baking a small cake or batch of cookies shows genuine effort. Germans love sweets from a local bakery, but nothing beats a homemade recipe shared with the team.
• Avoid extravagant items. A mountain of cupcakes or expensive gadgets can come across as over-the-top or insincere. Stick to one modest token, ideally something edible that everyone can share.
• Time your gesture. If your first day feels hectic—meeting schedules, IT setups, and onboarding tasks—consider waiting until the end of your first week to distribute treats. This marks a small milestone and reduces pressure on you.

Remember, the goal is to create a friendly atmosphere without overdoing it. A thoughtful gift shows you care about the team’s enjoyment and helps melt any initial stiffness.

Understanding the Onboarding Process

Onboarding in Germany can range from meticulously planned schedules to a more freeform approach. Knowing what to expect will help you feel prepared and confident from day one.

1. Structured vs. ad-hoc onboarding. Some companies provide a printed onboarding plan detailing every training session, HR form, and IT setup. Others pair you with a buddy or mentor who guides you through tasks at a human pace.
2. Be proactive. If you receive a list of readings or internal guides, carve out time in your calendar to complete them. If no plan arrives, politely ask your supervisor for next steps or request a quick introduction to key team members.
3. Ask smart questions. Clarify deadlines, reporting lines, and performance expectations early. Germans appreciate precision, so frame your queries clearly: “Could you outline the key milestones for my first month?”
4. Take your time. Unlike some cultures that expect immediate heavy output, most German workplaces allow a learning curve. You’ll rarely be penalized for asking for clarification or revisiting a process—this patience builds a solid foundation.

Understanding the local onboarding style ensures you align with your company’s pace and culture, making your first day in Germany more manageable.

Lunch on Your First Day

Lunch in Germany is more than a refueling stop; it’s a social ritual that fosters team bonding. How you handle your midday break can shape early interactions with your new colleagues.

• Observe the timing. Many offices break for lunch between 12:00 and 2:00 PM. If you’re new, let others lead: follow the team to the Kantine (cafeteria), local bistro, or shared kitchen.
• Snack smart. Pack a few light snacks—fruit, nuts, or a small sandwich—in case lunch is delayed or you get pulled into a meeting right when hunger strikes.
• Participate when invited. If a team member invites you out for lunch, accept the invitation. Whether it’s a quick salad at the cafeteria or a group outing to a nearby restaurant, lunchtime is prime real estate for casual conversations.
• Use local services. Many German companies have subsidized Mensa meals or partner with food apps. Check Slack channels or internal notices for lunchtime menus or special offers—this shows your proactive curiosity about daily life.

Your first lunch is a chance to observe both food culture and communication styles. Engage in light conversation, ask about favorite dishes, and you’ll quickly become part of the team routine.

The Chitchat Challenge

A common myth is that Germans avoid small talk entirely. In reality, they value efficient use of time but are open to friendly exchanges—if you choose the right moment.

• Business-first mindset. Meetings often begin promptly with no personal preamble. Expect a quick agenda overview and straight to the topic at hand.
• Find informal settings. Chitchat flourishes in the coffee corner, by the water cooler, or during a stroll to the smoking area (if you smoke). These “Nebenraum” moments are perfect for asking non-work questions: “Wie war dein Wochenende?” (“How was your weekend?”).
• Use treats as icebreakers. Sharing baked goods or souvenirs turns a formal meeting into a brief social event. Everyone gathers around the snack, giving you a few extra minutes to connect.
• Be persistent yet patient. If initial exchanges feel reserved, keep showing up for coffee breaks or after-work events. Over time, your consistent presence fosters genuine relationships.

By seizing casual moments and understanding the German preference for clear boundaries, you’ll gradually break through the surface formality and build lasting workplace friendships.

Conclusion

After your first day in Germany, reflect on what you observed and how you felt. Even minor adjustments—like switching from “Sie” to “du,” choosing a simple lunch spot, or offering a homemade treat—can leave a strong positive impression.

• Bold Action: Be observant and flexible, adapting your approach based on what you see around you.

Are you excited about your new role? Which tips resonated most, or what other questions do you have about navigating your first day in Germany? Share your thoughts below and let’s keep the conversation going!