Layoff in Germany survival Guide & Calculator

Getting laid off sucks. Getting laid off in Germany, with its crazily complex laws and world-famous bureaucracy sucks even more – and if you then don’t know how to negotiate terms or what to negotiate for, you get the perfect trifecta of layoff hell.

I’ve seen it happen from the inside and I’ve researched this topic heavily among the tech ecosystem in Berlin – as an immigrant, my lack of knowledge put me at an even greater disadvantage than others.

So I decided to put on my learning cap, I figured out what my options were, and this is how this guide came together.

And it comes with a calculator that helps you figure out which options might make most sense for you. You know, so that you know what’s in your best interest, and so that you know what to negotiate for in the first place.

Legal disclaimer

This guide is educational information based on my networks’ experience and extensive research, not legal advice. It does not portrait any specific company.

German employment law is complex and every situation is different. Always consult with a qualified employment lawyer (Fachanwalt für Arbeitsrecht) before making decisions about termination, signing agreements, or taking legal action. I’m not responsible for decisions you make based on this information.

FAQ

I have a meeting with HR next week – can you help?

• Yes, get a guide, read it, and then let’s jump on a call and I will offer you a piece of clarity on the situation. 

Will this calculator help me if I’m currently being laid off?

• If you are negotiating your exit terms and the company is putting documents in front of you to sign – it certainly will. 
• If you have a termination notice on your desk and the company is asking you to sign a winding up agreement – it certainly will. 

They’ve made an offer but I don’t know if I should trust them. What do I do?

• Read the guide and use the calculator and make sure you are not making the wrong choice by signing agreements from your employer. 

I think there are layoffs on the horizon. How do I prepare myself for the worst?

• Read the guide and make up your mind about your preferred scenario. Book a call with me if you’d like some support with building this clarity. 

At what point should I get legal advice?

• If you have legal insurance – as soon as possible. 
• If you don’t – the moment there is an agreement or a termination notice from your employer. 

Can you recommend a lawyer? 

•  I have some lawyers I trust, yes. 

I accepted the agreement and I’m blocked from the benefits. It’s probably too late now, right?

• If you signed any agreement and you got a benefits block – you can file an objection. In that case, speak to a lawyer asap. Moving on is also a great option if you can afford it. 

I’m really timid and the others aren’t. How do I negotiate for my interests without them steamrolling over me?

• You make up your mind and your plan. I can help you in the background. Running all your communications over email helps as well – this way you will have all your communications documented. 

In my home country, you’re expected to accept and just do what they tell you. What should I do?

• Germany is known for labor rights. You do not have to sign anything. You can sue as well, it is a different mindset. All your actions must align with your mental state and your strategy around your next steps. 

I don’t know if I can trust these people. How do I verify that they’re offering me a good set of options?

• First, you inform yourself (there is a guide, you are welcome to book a call with me). Getting a lawyer on board is a good next step. I work more on the human side, to pick your strategy. A lawyer would be a good next step.