You’ve chosen your vocational discipline and found the place that’s right for you. Now there’s just one more little hurdle you have to jump over before your dreams come true. The application that gets you in. Keep reading to learn about what awaits you during the application process and what else you need to know.

1. What happens during the application process?

The first thing we need is, of course, your application. Either by mail, email, or via post. Please note that our subsidiaries allocate and oversee positions independently. As such, speculative applications to ThyssenKrupp headquarter are not possible. Please therefore send your application directly to our subsidiaries.
If we think you’ve got potential, we’ll invite you to take a “placement test” so we can better assess your skills and background. If you pass that test, we’ll ask you in for a face-to-face interview so we can get to know each other. And if you make a good impression on us, our company physician will give you a checkup to ensure you meet medical requirements. Now the only thing left is your John Hancock on the contract…and count down the days until you officially start. We hope to see your application soon!

2. When do I have to submit my application?

To pull ahead in the race for a sought-after apprenticeship, burst out of the starting blocks early. Remember, the application process takes time. So send in your application before you graduate high school. Our online job exchange lists openings more than a year in advance. Also important: give yourself enough time to put together a complete application. It can take a few weeks.

3. How do I make my application perfect?

As with so many other things, the first time’s the hardest. A complete application is essential. Easier said than done, right? It’s quite simple, really. Whether you send your application by mail or email, start with a cogent cover letter which introduces you and explains why you want this particular job at our company. Also include a chronological résumé that outlines your education, internships, and other training, and shows us who you are and what you’ve learned. (Don’t forget your contact details! And photos are always welcome.) Speaking of lessons learned, copies of recent certificates, degrees, report cards, and any internship records you might have, definitely belong in your application. Recent job openings within the ThyssenKrupp Group you' ll find in our job market. 

4. What should I definitely not do?

Relax. There’s a big difference between applying for an apprenticeship and for a corner office. And we know this is your first application. Having said that, don’t spoil your chances with us – grimy papers, lots of typos, and missing information are real no-no’s. Ask your parents for help, or friends who’ve been through the process before. Four eyes are always better than two.

5. What’s different about a digital application?

In general, digital applications aren’t any different from printed ones. Email us your cover letter with a compelling subject line and attach your résumé, report cards, certificates, and letters of reference as one file. Please give it a name that’s easy to understand, such as “Resume_YourName.doc”. Another tip: even if it’s “just” an email, compose it as carefully as you would a letter. Smileys, text message-speak, and poor spelling have no place in business correspondence. And in terms of technology, please don’t send more than three documents, all of them in standard formats. Our favorite: PDF files. 

6.  How can I prepare for tests and interviews?

First off: stay calm and just be yourself. Next: dress the part, and be on time – these are big! The first impression you make on our HR rep is often the one that tips the scales. Your clothing should be neat, appropriate, and business-like, but you still need to feel comfortable in it. Otherwise you’ll sound and appear artificial. What you choose should fall between “laid back” and “fashion victim.” This, and your punctuality demonstrate to us that you’re motivated and you take the meeting seriously. Second: find out more about your dream job. Where? On our Internet pages, through designated key contacts, and Germany’s Federal Employment Agency site. You can also take an online practice placement test here.

7. What can I expect on the first day of my apprenticeship at ThyssenKrupp?

Your apprenticeship at ThyssenKrupp begins with orientation days during which we show you around our company, introduce you to your supervisors and co-workers, and give you plenty of information about your apprenticeship that you’ll need down the road.

8. What else can I take advantage of as an apprentice?

We offer a wide range of seminars, sports events, and idea-sharing opportunities with your co-workers. You’ll also enjoy our corporate business simulation. There’s plenty more – you’ll receive details in full once your apprenticeship starts.

Further application assistance

For even more information on crafting the perfect application and making the best impression you can on the first interview, visit:

• Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWI)
• German Education Server
• Azubiworld.com