Networking after Umschulung: How to build new professional connections

Networking after Umschulung: Steps to build new professional connections in your new field

1. Start with your Umschulung classmates

• Stay in touch with the people you trained with.

• Some may work in companies later and recommend you when vacancies appear.

• Create a WhatsApp or LinkedIn group to share opportunities and information.

2. Use LinkedIn and XING smartly

Practical steps:

• Update your profile right after the Umschulung.

• Clearly list the certificate + the skills gained.

• Follow target companies and comment on their posts.

• Send connection requests with a simple personal message like:
  “Ich habe gerade meine Umschulung als [Beruf] abgeschlossen und würde mich sehr über den fachlichen Austausch freuen.”

3. Attend IHK or HWK events

• Many chambers (IHK / HWK) organize regular professional events (info evenings, fairs, workshops).

• Attending gives you a chance to meet employers, career advisors, and professionals in your new field.

4. Volunteer or do a short internship (Praktikum / Ehrenamt)

• Offer to volunteer in events or small projects in your new field.

• This gives you:

  • extra practical experience

  • access to colleagues and supervisors who can later vouch for you

  • professional recommendations (Empfehlungsschreiben)

5. Reconnect with former teachers and trainers

• Many trainers have strong connections with companies.

• After the Umschulung, send a thank-you message + an update on your plans and politely ask for job-search support.

• Don’t hesitate to request a written recommendation.

6. Join professional Facebook and Telegram groups

• There are German groups for almost every profession, e.g.:

  • Pflegekräfte Deutschland

  • IT-Freelancer Community

  • Steuerfachangestellte Austausch

• Participate in discussions, ask questions, and stay active.

7. Build your professional identity (Personal Branding)

• Write short LinkedIn posts about your journey, skills, or new learning.

• Example:
  “Heute habe ich meine Umschulung als Fachinformatiker abgeschlossen. Ich bin stolz auf den Weg und freue mich auf neue Herausforderungen im IT-Bereich!”

• This type of post shows motivation and attracts attention.

8. Use free events (Veranstaltungen)

• Websites like:

  • Eventbrite.de

  • Meetup.com

  • Weiterbildung-mv.de

• announce networking and professional events by city and field—search and register.

Summary: practical steps

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ـ* The website’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through intensive research and reviewing multiple sources. However, mistakes may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat the information as an initial reference and always consult the relevant authorities for confirmed details.