Relocating to Germany as Asian - how to building social circles

Hi! Given your goal of long-term integration, there are several strategies and tips that could greatly benefit you:

1. Language Learning:

• Enroll in an Integration Course: Germany offers integration courses specifically for immigrants. These cover both language skills and knowledge about Germany's legal system, culture, and history.
• Utilize Language Learning Apps: Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone can be helpful to start with, but consider also platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk where you can converse with native German speakers.

2. Befriending Locals:

• Join Clubs or Organizations: Look for sport clubs (known as "Sportvereine"), hobby groups, or volunteer organizations where you can meet locals.
• Avoid Sticking Exclusively to Expat Groups: It's natural to seek comfort in familiarity, especially if you join groups of fellow Asians or expats. While they can be immensely supportive, also make an intentional effort to interact with native Germans to ensure a balanced social circle.
• Attend Local Events and Festivals: Germany is rich in festivals, from the famous Oktoberfest to local village fêtes. These are great opportunities to immerse in the culture and meet locals.

3. Cultural Integration:

• Understand German Punctuality: Germans generally value punctuality. Being late can be viewed as disrespectful.
• Acknowledge Formalities: In professional settings, titles are important. Address people by their last name and title unless invited to do otherwise.
• Open-minded Approach to Directness: Germans often value direct communication which can sometimes come off as blunt. It's usually not meant to be rude; it's just a straightforward approach to discussions.

4. Local Etiquettes (mostly in rural areas!):

• Sundays are Quiet Days: Shops are closed, and it's generally a day of rest. Avoid noisy activities that might disturb your neighbors.
• Recycling is Key: Germany has a robust recycling system. Familiarize yourself with the different categories and collection days.

5. Continuous Learning:

• Take a History or Cultural Class: This can give you insights into the German psyche, their values, and historical context.
• Read Local News and Watch Local TV Shows: This will not only improve your language skills but will also give you topics for conversation with locals.

6. Seek Mentorship:

• Find someone, perhaps from your workplace or community, who can guide you through the nuances of German life and culture. A mentor can provide invaluable personalized insights.

Conclusion: While it's true that expat groups (not only Asians ;)) might tend to cluster together, it's beneficial for true integration to actively step outside this comfort zone. Every effort you make, be it learning the language or attending a local event, will contribute significantly to your long-term goal of becoming a part of the German community. Remember, integration is a continuous journey, and every small step will enrich your experience in Germany.

Hope this helps!

Cheers, Sidi

___________________

Dr. Sidi S. Koné

Former Senior Engagement Manager & Interviewer at McKinsey | Former Senior Consultant at BCG | Co-Founder of The MBB Offer Machine™

Hi there,

I've moved to multiple countries/cities on my own (France, Colombia, Brisbane, Melbourne, New York) so hopefully I can help you with my experience!

What I did:

1. Found people “like” me - signed up for a Francophone group in Brisbane
2. Joined clubs
3. Started habits/hobbies (a local gym, climbing, etc.)
4. Stayed friendly and let “casual” conversations that happened frequently turn into friendships (my local coffee shop, the apartment building rooftop/elevator/lobby, etc.)

I'm actually working now with a similar profile - Asian now relocated and studying / working in Germany. 

You have many options, but basically these are the important avenues to look at:

• Learn German. The earlier you can do it, the better. Try to make it fun to accelarate the learning process. This will enabler than will help with everything else, from socialising to professional opportunities. 
• Study. See if you can sign up for an MBA or any sort of educational program. This will give you better roots into the German system, give you a social circle and create professional opportunities. 
• Work. Start networking with people to understand what firms hire non-german speakers and who are most friendly to foreigners. Happy to provide a perspective on this myself. Otherwise, here's how you can identify contacts in the industry and start networking:

• Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals
• Expert Guide: How To Get Referrals Via LinkedIn? 

Best,
Cristian

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Hey there, depends highly on which area you consider for relocation. Ping me for a free coffee chat, happy to share some thoughts as a German ;-) Warm regards, and Willkommen! Frederic