Advisory Offers

We are happy to go over your documents and give you valuable tips for a successful application.

For a portfolio check, please make an appointment so that we have enough time to go over the documents together. Please send us your documents ahead of time so we can prepare.

In addition, we also offer short information sessions addressing the preparation of application documents. These short information sessions take place on an ongoing basis. Please arrange an appointment in advance by e-mail at: careerservice(at)hs-ansbach.de. Consultations are possible by telephone and in person as well as by video conference using the "Zoom" software. Please note our data protection information for the latter.

You have already sent one or more successful applications and got an invitation to an interview? Perfect! Now it is time to shine.

How do I respond to difficult questions?

What effect does my body language have during the interview?

How should I dress?

You will now ask yourself these and other questions.

To successfully master your first interview, take us up on our offer: We will simulate an interview that complements your application, so that you can practice difficult questions in advance, optimize your impact and convince all along the line.

You will find dates and a registration form in our “workshop and seminar offer” category (German). If you are unable to attend the dates listed, please contact us and we will find an alternative: careerservice(at)hs-ansbach.de

The application is your business card and gives the employer a first impression. As you know, this is the most important part and decides whether you will be considered in the further application process or not. Therefore, you should take the time to prepare your documents and adapt each application to the respective company and the advertised job. We are happy to support you in this matter.

Here you will find important information and recommendations made by the Career Service of Ansbach University on the components of an application:

A good cover letter should be short and concise. A clear structure must be visible to the reader. In addition to the structure and content, the layout of your cover letter can decide over whether a human resource agent continues to read or not.

Design, layout and format of the cover letter:

In order to make it as easy as possible for the recipient to read the cover letter, it should not only be structured in terms of content, but also include an appealing and easy-to-understand layout. It is important to choose a universal font that is easy to read (e.g. Arial). Avoid using ornate fonts or wording in your application. The font size should not be larger than 12 pt and not smaller than 10 pt. The font color must be black.

A cover letter should contain between 3 and 5 paragraphs, which are thematically structured. The recommended line spacing is one line and the paragraphs should be separated by blank lines.

An adaptation of the design of the respective company (regarding color etc.) is very popular but can also be a distraction. Avoid conspicuous designs. Keep your application simple and try to prove your creativity by including work samples.

Structure:

Sender

This section contains your personal information such as your name, address and telephone number. Make sure your contact information is easy to find.

• Place and date
  This part consists of your current place of residence and the current date.
   
• Addressee
  This is the recipient’s name. Pay special attention to spelling mistakes, this may result in an embarrassing situation. If there is no contact person in the job description, it is best to call in advance and find a contact person.
   
• Subject line
  Do not begin your subject line with the word “subject”. Name the exact job title of the position you want to apply for here. Please also note that you may have to enter a reference number if there is one.
   
• Salutation
  The salutation should always be personal, avoid "Dear Ladies and Gentlemen".
   
• Introduction
  The first sentence should already spike the interest of the addressee - avoid general phrases such as: "I am applying for..." and "I have with great interest read that you...". Instead, start with a personal reference, e.g.: "I already know your company from the contact fair at Ansbach University...".
   
• Main part
  Here you present your special knowledge and skills - both technical and soft skills. Avoid retelling your curriculum vitae but emphasize previous activities that you consider important for the position you are applying for. Here you should talk about your current job, for example: "I will finish my studies in applied engineering at Ansbach University of Applied Sciences at the end of the winter semester XY...".
   
• Corporate reference
  Here, experience is called for, in which you have already been able to prove your qualifications for the position. For university graduates, this is often not so easy to do, due to a lack of experience, which is why in such cases you could mention past experiences in associations, comparable honorary positions or university events. You can also underpin your soft skills with examples from your everyday university or work life.
   
• Final part
  At the end (if desired) information about the entry date or salary expectations can be given. You might also want to mention that you are looking forward to the interview.
   
• Attachments (optional)
  The end is made up of the single word "attachments", which signals that attachments (curriculum vitae, certificates) are still to follow.

The curriculum vitae – some tips

The curriculum vitae is the most important part of an application. It gives HR professionals a brief overview of your entire professional career. Therefore, a clear structure is essential. The desired information should be as easy for the reader to find as possible. In addition, a harmonious, universal layout and, of course, quality content must be ensured.

Form and structure:

• Contact details
  First you should mention your contact details. In addition to your name and address, enter a telephone number and a neutral e-mail address. You can also enter your date of birth, place of birth, marital status and children, but this is not mandatory.
   
• Design
  The design should be appealing and ensure the clarity of the application. It is important to make sure that the complete application ultimately creates a uniform image. In regard to individual design elements, you can use elements from the company's design, for example, the color of the logo. But beware, do not copy the whole appearance of the company. As with the cover letter, a clear font (e.g. Arial) should be chosen. The curriculum vitae should in itself be harmonious. A tabular presentation method is recommended here. The curriculum vitae should not be longer than two pages.
   
• Content structure
  It is advisable to structure the content, for example by, professional activities, training & studies and further training, as this gives the reader a good overview of your individual career stages. The individual sections should be structured in reverse chronological order. The most current position is the first to be mentioned. All phases should be shown with monthly details, e.g. 08/2017-10/2017 or 08.2017-10.2017).
   
• Formality
  The completion of the curriculum vitae is indicated by the issuing location and date. The CV must also be signed in person.
   
• Content
  The curriculum vitae should primarily contain short and concise information. Complete sentences have no place in a curriculum vitae, you should limit yourself to key points but avoid incomprehensible abbreviations. In addition, you must make sure your former employers are spelled right. However, a formally correct curriculum vitae is only the basis. The chances of getting the job in question can be increased if the CV is strategically designed and adapted to the position in question. Check exactly which of your former positions is important for the new job. Highlight them by naming the relevant activities in key points below. At the same time, also address projects and special tasks, especially if they are relevant for the advertised position. If you still have little professional experience, outline your study focuses in bullet points, provided they are relevant to the new occupation. Always make sure that you not only highlight your specialist knowledge, but also your soft skills. For this you can list voluntary or other activities. Your special knowledge and skills are usually mentioned at the end of your CV. Here it is important to give them an evaluation, e.g. English - business fluent.
   

The application photo - some tips

Nowadays, the application photo is still an important part of an application. It gives the employer a first impression of you. Therefore, the effect of a photo should not be underestimated. You should have your picture taken by a professional photographer. Photos from vending machines and leisure pictures are taboo.

• Up-to-datedness
  In order to get an up-to-date impression of you, the application photo should not be older than one year.
   
• Friendly smile
  Basically, the application photo should show you in a natural position. For a pleasant appearance, it is important that you feel comfortable. A friendly smile always contributes to a positive perception. Make sure, however, that it does not appear too posed or exaggerated.
   
• Discreet colors
  Choose a subtle background. It should match your clothes. Your clothes should be appropriate to your desired location and free of any imprints or lettering. In general, it is better to be overdressed than underdressed.
   
• Format
  The application picture is usually placed on the first page of the resume on the above right. Two sizes are possible: 6cm x 4cm or 9cm x 6cm. If you chose a cover sheet, the picture should be shown within the lower third of the page. Here the format can also deviate, since generally more room is available.

Whether it's career orientation, finding a company for your internship semester or career entry, or sharpening your profile: We support you during your studies on your way into the working world. Because your career is close to our hearts.

You have already made an initial decision by choosing your field of study. In the course of your studies, it is now important to inform yourself about job profiles, fields of activity, requirements and opportunities on the labour market.
To do this, it makes sense to look at your own profile, to know your competences, interests and wishes and to expand them with additional qualifications.

The Career Service offers you orientation and support in this process with various events and advisory services. We will be happy to assist you in defining your career choice, in acquiring key qualifications and in starting your career.
We are happy to provide comprehensive and holistic advice. Please make an appointment for career counselling at careerservice(at)hs-ansbach.de or call 0981 4877 544.

Career counselling for women

Entering professional life after graduation is sometimes rocky. However, it is often women who face particular challenges. The Family Office and the Career Service would like to offer career counselling for women to support and advise female students in particular when starting their careers.

How do I deal with issues such as pay gap, gender equality and women's quota? Does this affect me and what is my position on it?
In an individual discussion, we look together at what opportunities are open to you and how you can use your strengths in a targeted way and develop them systematically. In doing so, we take into account your current circumstances as well as your wishes for the future. We are also happy to go through your application documents together and optimise them if necessary.

Please feel free to make an appointment for a consultation:
careerservice(at)hs-ansbach.de oder 0981 4877 544

In particular, female students with their own children or a caring role face major hurdles when applying for a job or entering professional life. We would like to provide you with the best possible support and advice. Visit our regular information event "QuikFix: Applying with a Child" or make an appointment for a consultation.

Relevant trade fairs
Since there are many career fairs in Germany, you should really consider which ones are interesting to you.

Good preparation
Those who simply stroll around on the fair will probably leave without success. Good preparation is key. Career fairs can be compared to speed dating with potential employers. As an applicant, you have to present yourself as a suitable candidate in the shortest period of time possible and still get important information about the company and the job offer.

Appointments in advance
Research the participating companies in advance. Find out more about vacant positions. Should you find any interesting offers, please contact the personnel department of the respective company directly and ask for an appointment during the trade fair.

Individual application folders
You have already informed yourself about the companies present and their vacant positions? Then you can prepare your application documents in advance. Design them individually for each position.
In order to be prepared for spontaneous interviews, always keep your CV on you during the fair. Even if you do not have complete application documents with you, your CV and your personal interview will give the HR manager a first impression and will help him remember you even after the trade fair.

Luggage
At the career fair you should have your hands free so that you can spontaneously greet someone with a handshake. However, you should be equipped with your application documents, a notebook and a pen.

Dress code
Think about what a company might expect of you. The dress code often differs depending on the industry and position. It is better to be overdressed rather than too casual. Make sure, however, that you feel comfortable in your outfit and that it suits you. As a rule of thumb: Attend the trade fair in an outfit with which you would attend your first day of work.

Finding a job is difficult sometimes. Where can I find the right vacancies? What should I do when looking for a job? We recommend combining different strategies. For example, searching on online stock exchanges, but also using other sources such as trade journals and company databases and networks.

Below are some tips to help you find what you are looking for. We are also happy to advise you personally in a consultation on job and internship search. Make an appointment at: careerservice(at)hs-ansbach.de

• On the Hochschul-Jobbörse you will find a large number of regional internship offers and job advertisements or working student activities.
• The Hochschulkontaktmesse takes place annually in the summer semester and offers you an ideal opportunity to get in contact with potential employers.
• The Praxistage take place regularly in spring. Here you have the unique opportunity to visit and get to know selected companies on site.
• Visit career fairs and events and build your own network.
• Make use of the experience of your fellow students, perhaps you can get tips on your company search.
• In addition, you can also ask your docents for tips on possible internships and employers.
• Read relevant local or national newspapers to find out where you would like to do an internship. Look at trade fair catalogues or company brochures to find companies and institutions that you could consider for an internship.
• You already know where you would like to work? Then it is a good idea to send an unsolicited application to the relevant companies. It is also advisable to check with the company beforehand in what areas internships are possible. In addition, you can already raise their interest in you during the telephone conversation.
• A list of companies with which our students have completed their internships is available (we are happy to advise you in a personal appointment).
• There are several online job exchanges (general, regional or sector-specific). It is important that you know what you are looking for. You should know what activities and sectors, what region and what kind of work you are interested in. An overview with links to online job exchanges can be found below.
• Use our documents. The Career Service provides you with some career magazines and books. Visit us in building 54 to pick up magazines and information on career entry.
• For a targeted job search at companies for which inclusion is important, please take a look at the website of the Office for Family Affairs, Equal Opportunities and Diversity under "Networks".

You would like to do an internship abroad? We have compiled the most important information for you below.

An internship abroad is an exciting experience. During your studies, you can immerse yourself in the working world of another country and get to know it intensively. You will make a lot of new contacts, enjoy unique experiences and gain your first professional experience.

Below we have compiled some important information for you. If you have any further questions or would like advice on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Advantages:

• Internship and international experience in one
• Intensify your language skills
• Development of soft skills (self-confidence, openness, flexibility, responsibility)
• Increased job opportunities
• ...

Search:

Of course, it is more difficult than finding an internship in Germany, but there are still some websites that will make your search easier. You can also find international job offers on our Hochschuljobbörse.

• www.studieren-weltweit.de/infos-finden/#praktikum
• www.daad.de/ausland/praktikum
• www.daad.de/laenderinformationen
• www.studieren-weltweit.de/praktikumsvermittlung

In addition, the Career Service of Ansbach University of Applied Sciences offers a QuickFix on the subject of applications in English and an application portfolio check for English applications. Information can be found on the current seminar and event program.

Below we have compiled some important information for you. If you have any further questions or would like advice on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Advantages:

• Internship and international experience in one
• Intensify your language skills
• Development of soft skills (self-confidence, openness, flexibility, responsibility)
• Increased job opportunities
• ...

Financing:

1. Compensated position
   Some internships abroad are remunerated. If your salary is insufficient for living abroad, inform yourself about the conditions in time.
2. Erasmus+
   Are you doing an internship in another European country? Then you can apply for an Erasmus+ scholarship. You can find out more at the International Office.
3. DAAD Short Scholarship
   The German Academic Exchange Service also awards short-term scholarships. You can qualify for one if you organize an internship of no more than three months at an international organization, a German mission abroad, a Goethe-Institut or at a German school abroad.
4. PROMOS
   The German Academic Exchange Service with the PROMOS program can be considered for an internship of up to six months. For more information, please contact the International Office.
5. Combined study and practical semester
   Stays abroad for up to one year can also be funded by the DAAD. For this purpose, a university semester is combined with work experience in the form of an internship. The prerequisite for this is that the internship is mandatory in the course of study.
6. Foreign BAföG
   As soon as the internship abroad is a compulsory internship, it can also be supported with BAföG, even if you are not eligible for BAföG in Germany. The planned stay abroad must last at least twelve weeks.
7. Other funding opportunities
   (scholarships, educational loans, etc.)

Further information can be found on the pages of the International Office.

Timetable for career entry

In order to be successful in finding a job quickly, there are a few important points to keep in mind.

• You should define your goals at an early stage. What does your dream company / everyday working life look like? What size should the company be?
• Recognize your potential. What hard and soft skills do you have?
• Can you demonstrate additional qualifications that are not necessarily required for the position, but nevertheless represent a significant added value for you?
• Did you acquire any work experience or practical experience during your studies?
• What kind of career entry do you want? Should it be a trainee position, direct entry or an honorary contract for freelance work?
• Which professional fields are desired and possible?
• What locations are you looking at? Are you only applicable locally or maybe even worldwide?

Important: Actively search for your dream job! But start early (six to eight months)!

Online job boards

There are several job boards on the Internet. It is always recommended to use several channels, portals and job search options.

For a successful search, first consider which type of job offers you are looking for. Select the job exchanges accordingly. Tip: Never search for just one job title. Always use the German and the English versions. Think outside the box and use different search terms. Not every company has the same job title, but the job description may be similar.

You can find more job search tips at the Career Service or in the QuickFix on this topic. Click here for more information on the offered events.

Below we have compiled a selection of job portals for you. On these pages you will not only often find job offers, but also application tips and articles about the application process, which might be helpful for your own application.

University Job Exchange
The university job exchange offers a wide range of internships, graduate positions, bachelor theses and working student jobs.
With the GO MATCH matching function, suitable positions are directly suggested to you. Based on your ideas and wishes, suitable positions in Germany and abroad will be suggested to you as part of a scoring process. Access to the service and further information can be found on the Hochschul-Jobbörse.

Job exchanges for internships

• www.praktikumsanzeigen.info
• www.jobsuma.de
• www.meinpraktikum.de
• www.unicum.de
• www.1000praktika.de
• www.praktikumsstelle.de
• www.campusjaeger.de

Job exchanges for graduates

• www.absolventa.de
• www.absolvent.de
• www.akademiker-online.de
• www.staufenbibel.de
• www.karriereneuling.de
• www.karriere.unicum.de
• www.careerguide24.com

Regional job exchanges

• www.oberfrankenjobs.de
• www.mittelfrankenjobs.de
• www.unterfrankenjobs.de

Job exchanges for the Faculty of Business

• www.mittelstandskarriere.de
• www.efinancialcareers.de
• www.bvdw.org
• www.multimedia.de
• www.djv.de
• www.dasauge.de/jobs
• www.absolutebeginners.de
• www.consultants.de
• www.it-jobs.de
• www.get-in-it.de
• www.jobspotting.de*

Job exchanges for the Faculty of Engineering

• www.academics.de
• www.analytik.de
• www.bund.de
• www.energiejobs.de
• www.ingenierkarriere.de
• www.t5-karriereportal.de
• www.jobvector.de
• www.mittelstandskarriere.de
• www.arbyte.de
• www.ingenieurkarriere.de
• www.get-in-engineering.de
• www.bmu.de
• www.bdvb.de
• www.nachhaltigejobs.de
• www.epojobs.de
• www.myscience.de/jobs
• www.greenjobs.de*
• www.rechnerphotovoltaik.de/jobboerse

Job exchanges for the Faculty of Media

• www.mediajobs.de
• www.multimedia.de
• www.dasauge.de/jobs
• www. medienjobs.boersenblatt.net
• www.horizontjobs.de
• www.medienwiki.org
• www.newsroom.de (Journalismus, PR)
• www.jobs.mediabiz.de (Entertainment-Branche)
• www.druck-medien.net (Druck- und Medienbranche)

Public service

• www.interamt.de
• www.bund.de*

International job exchanges

• www.jobs-io.de
• www.academicjobseu.com
• www.sciencemag.org/careers
• www.jobrank.org
• www.jajobs.de*

_{*no claim to completeness}

The start-up advice service at Ansbach University of Applied Sciences offers a wide range of teaching formats, a certificate program and the option of taking a semester off for a start-up. At the same time, you will be supported with a wide range of individual and confidential consultation on the most important questions relating to business start-ups, funding opportunities and networks. The start-up advice service at Ansbach University of Applied Sciences looks forward to hearing from you or visiting the Pixel Campus. Further information are available on the homepage of the Start-Up Consultancy.