In the catering industry, one of many interesting industries in Germany, basic language skills are usually enough to take orders or communicate with colleagues. The cleaning industry also often looks for employees who at least have the basics to follow instructions. In warehouse and logistics jobs, basic knowledge is also sufficient to sort goods or understand warehouse processes.
Finally, it is no surprise that there are plenty of positions in the construction or production industry where it is perfectly sufficient to carry out simple processes. In general, in many jobs that do not have high language skills requirements, basic knowledge of German is sufficient as long as you are willing to learn and develop your language skills during and after work.
It doesn’t always have to be the next best course
There are numerous free or at least inexpensive options and resources for learning German independently.
1. Websites like Duolingo (free), Babbel (sometimes with cheap subscriptions) and Memrise offer interactive exercises and lessons that are sometimes great for beginners.
2. There are many YouTube channels that specialize in learning German. “Learn German with Anja” or “Easy German” are prominent examples that offer entertaining videos and lessons for different levels.
3. There are various worthwhile language learning apps like Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone (watch out for offers) or Tandem that are useful for practicing vocabulary and grammar. Some apps are free, but also offer additional features for a fee.
4. Podcasts that you can listen to on the go like “Coffee Break German” or “Slow German” allow you to improve your listening comprehension and learn new vocabulary at the same time.
5. On platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk you can find a language partner who speaks German and might want to learn your native language.
6. In many cities there are public libraries that offer language learning materials, books and even films in German.
7. Online platforms such as Coursera or edX occasionally offer free German courses from universities. These are usually logically structured and offer a good opportunity to learn systematically.
8. On social media or on platforms such as Reddit there are groups and communities dedicated to learning German. Here you can ask questions and get useful tips at any time.
9. Children’s books, comics or simple novels are a good way to learn the language in a playful way. Films or series in German with subtitles also help to promote listening comprehension.
Learning German made easy
Duolingo uses a special point system and levels to keep users motivated to learn. There are interactive lessons, vocabulary training and grammar exercises, as well as the option to set daily goals. Available as an app for both iOS and Android, Duolingo can also be used directly via the website. The Memrise platform focuses on vocabulary training and combines various techniques to make learning fun and effective, including videos from native speakers and memory aids.
Busuu is another popular platform that offers interactive lessons and exercises. In addition to learning on your own, users can have their exercises corrected by native speakers, which provides valuable feedback. Busuu offers a free membership with basic features and also has a premium version with extended content. By combining the resources mentioned, you can improve your German language skills effectively and with fun.
Using language in everyday life is particularly important
It’s completely normal to feel insecure when speaking a new language. To overcome your fear and gain more confidence in speaking German, you can follow a few tips. Start small by starting with simple sentences or everyday expressions. It doesn’t have to be complex conversations right away. Small steps will help you grow bit by bit. Regularly look for opportunities to speak German with friends, family or others.
It could also be helpful to watch German films or series and repeat what you hear out loud to improve your own listening comprehension and fluency. The important thing in this exercise is to give yourself permission to make mistakes. This is simply part of the learning process and no one around you expects immediate perfection! Over time, you will notice how speaking becomes easier and easier for you.
Learning a language: What is important after the German course | Self-study as the key to success – all articles at a glance.
