I'm moving to Berlin for a year (possibly longer) and was wondering if anyone here has any experience getting a job over there. Not a playing job. One of those real work jobs!
I speak German fairly well, not perfect but pretty well.
Any information you have would be much appreciated!
Right off the bat, I'm thinking you would be a great candidate as a translator. Before you leave, canvass local agency's that set up tours to Germany and let them know that you will be there and that your services may be vital. I have always found that seeing someone "cut from the same cloth" i.e; a fellow American in my case on the ground in the countries I was in, helped me traverse the social/linquistic landmines, thus ensuring a smoother my trip with no international incidents.
You might also go to the various hotels in the area you plan on living in in Berlin and offer your services, vis-a-vis as stated above, to their Canadian/American guests. Have a price structure in mind.
Have you checked on ANY companies that might be doing business in your area that also have offices in Berlin or the environs? Could be a good link to some part-time work. Also, doesn't hurt to contact the government. They have an embassy, you have the artistic bent and know the language, one never knows to what ends they could use you.
I think that jobs for non-EU citizens are hard to come by (they prioritize filling jobs with EU citizens first). Then, if there are remaining or highly-qualified positions then people from other countries are considered and then work permits are granted. What a concept, huh?
I applied for and obtained a year long visa which enables me to travel and work for my stay in Germany. Obviously I won't be first on the pecking order for getting jobs but I've heard hot spots to hit are Hostels and Tour organizations in Berlin. But really I'll apply for anything and everything! I'm also planning on putting up some fliers for teaching lessons. I figure it would be a good way to pick up more German as well as teaching the kids English as well as tuba!
You know when I moved to Germany I was very excited about the beer but I gotta say that I'm kinda disappointed with it. There are strict laws here on how you can make beer, so it's all good quality but all kinda tastes the same. Over here in Europe Germany is more known for its wine than beer. Now Belgium is the place to go for beer. So good. The pretzels here are amazing though.
