Probearbeitstag: How do you prepare and convince the training company?

A trial work day (Probearbeitstag) is a golden opportunity to prove yourself to an Ausbildungsbetrieb (training company). It is often requested after the interview and can be the decisive step toward acceptance or rejection. Here is a practical guide to prepare and stand out:

What is a trial work day?
It is one day (or more) when you are asked to come to the company and work with them for a short time.
Goal: The company evaluates you in practice, and you get to know the workplace environment.
You are not expected to do difficult tasks—mainly to observe, shadow employees, and learn.

How to prepare

1) Learn about the company

• Read the company website and online pages.

• Understand their field, number of branches/locations, and values.

2) Learn about the occupation

• Watch short videos about daily tasks.

• Memorize key German terms related to tools or tasks.

3) Bring the following

• Notebook and pen: for notes.

• Water and a small snack: for breaks (if the company does not provide them).

• Appropriate clothing: depending on the field—smart for office roles, practical for trades/industry.

How to behave on the day

What to do

• Be on time (ideally 10 minutes early).

• Greet everyone politely and smile.

• Ask questions with curiosity and respect:
  “Darf ich eine Frage stellen?”
  “Wie funktioniert das genau?”

• Take notes if possible.

• Show genuine enthusiasm without overacting:
  “Ich freue mich sehr auf diesen Tag.”
  “Das finde ich sehr interessant.”

What to avoid

• Using your phone, yawning, or looking restless.

• Only giving short answers or staying silent for too long.

• Criticizing or mocking tasks or the team.

What does the employer evaluate?

• Behavior: politeness, teamwork, cooperation.

• Discipline: attention to detail, punctuality.

• Language & communication: understanding instructions, asking when unclear.

• Motivation & learning: willingness to learn and active participation.

End of the day: leaving a strong impression

• Thank them clearly:
  “Vielen Dank für den spannenden Tag. Es hat mir viel Spaß gemacht.”

• Ask about the next step:
  “Wann kann ich mit einer Rückmeldung rechnen?”

Golden tip
In the evening, send a short thank-you email:
Subject: Vielen Dank für den Probearbeitstag
Text: “Ich bedanke mich herzlich für die Möglichkeit, Ihr Unternehmen kennenzulernen. Der Tag hat mich in meinem Wunsch bestärkt, die Ausbildung bei Ihnen zu machen.”

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