How to challenge a job interview

“Thank you very much for your application. We would like to get to meet you.” That’s the response we all want to hear after submitting an application. To help you really impress the interviewer, I would like to share what has worked for me so far.

This was probably the biggest mindset shift for me. I used to prepare for interviews like I was preparing for an exam. But the interviews I did best in were the ones where I treated them as a conversation. The interviewer wants to know: Can I work with this person? Do they think independently? Are they curious?

A few things that helped me:

• Be honest about what you do not know. If they ask you about a topic you are unfamiliar with, say so — and then explain how you would approach learning it. That shows more than a rehearsed answer.
• Ask real questions. Not "What does a typical day look like?" but something like "I read that your team is working on X — how does that connect to Y?" That shows you have done your homework.
• Show personality. German companies, especially in engineering, value competence. But they also want someone who fits the team. Being authentic is more valuable than being polished.

I sent out many applications before I got my first real opportunity. And every rejection felt personal at the time.

But here is what I learned: rejections are rarely about you. Sometimes the position was already filled internally. Sometimes the timing was wrong. Sometimes your profile was great but someone else had one specific skill they needed more.

What helped me was writing feedback emails after rejections. A short, polite message: "Thank you for the update. I would really appreciate any feedback on my application so I can improve for the future." Not everyone replies, but when they do, the insights are gold.

Are you still waiting for an invitation to come up? Here is a quick list of concrete things that made a difference for me:

• Tailor every application. I know it takes more time. But one tailored application is worth ten generic ones.
• Keep your LinkedIn profile updated. Recruiters at these companies actively search LinkedIn. A good profile with a clear headline and relevant experience can bring opportunities to you.
• Learn basic German for the workplace. Even in international teams, day-to-day communication often happens in German. You do not need to be fluent, but showing that you are trying goes a long way.
• Go to company events, career fairs, and industry meetups: Not every position at these companies is posted online. Many working student roles and internships are filled through internal referrals or direct contact. The University of Stuttgart and stuvus regularly organise career fairs.
• Start small if needed. A HiWi job or a Werkstudent position at a smaller supplier can be a stepping stone to a company. Do not wait until you feel "ready." You will never feel fully ready. Apply anyway. The worst that can happen is a rejection, and that is just information.

Applying for a job can feel intimidating, especially as a student. But the truth is:  companies profit from fresh perspectives, new skills, and motivated juniors who are willing to learn. Try to show them that you are that person —through genuine effort, curiosity, and initiative.

Arya