The first step involves getting to know each other and understanding the needs of both sides – the company and the potential employee.

Although the job description and application process were in English, the interview was conducted entirely in German, with no option to switch to English and no inquiries from the interviewer about this. This could be justified by the position requiring German fluency. However, it presents a significant disadvantage when discussing technical topics, which are commonly addressed in English.

The interviewer was relaxed and directly responsible for his team, with no HR intermediary.

The interview proceeded flawlessly, apart from the following topics:

• Home Office: The company strongly favors in-office presence and expects employees to return to the office once the pandemic ends. This poses an issue for individuals living in Munich, as the office in Ismaning is quite far from the city center and poorly connected by public transportation (taking about an hour) or by car (25 minutes). Since the majority of the work can be done remotely, commuting to the office might be quite stressful for those who do not own a car.
• Salary Expectations: I provided a range, but received no indication of a possible range from their side. Honestly, this is a question one would not expect in the very first interview.
• Customer Relations: All interactions are conducted remotely, with no field activities. This further reinforces the logic for home office arrangements.

• Why would you like to change your actual job?

• What are you looking for in a new possible job? What has to be there?

• What motivates you?

• What would you improve in MATLAB?

• How often do you use MATLAB?

• Notice period with the actual company