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Techie who once worked at tech giants in India shares how Germany values work-life balance
In a conversation with HT.com, the techie who relocated to Germany from Kolkata shared how work-life balance is maintained in the European nation.
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After dedicating several gruelling years to the highly demanding Indian IT sector, a tech professional decided to relocate, accepting a Software Engineer role in Germany. In an Instagram post, Kaustav Banerjee openly discussed how the understanding and execution of work-life balance differ dramatically across the two nations.
“Back in 2013, I had just passed college, and I did not even know the term ‘work-life balance’ It’s very common in Indian workplaces to burn out yourself and give 200%,” Banerjee wrote.
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The techie continued, “This all changed after I moved to Germany, I saw a better culture at workplace and I cannot even start to praise the numerous good things.”
How did social media react?
An individual wrote, “True. There is a great difference in work culture.” Another posted, “Great journey, bro, and glad to know that you are an Infoscian as well.” A third added, “Can you please share detailed steps on how to get a job there?”
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Banerjee relocated from Kolkata to Germany in December 2020 for higher studies. He told HT.com, “I relocated to Germany in December 2020 for my masters degree after working in India for 8 years.” Currently, he stays in Berlin.
Recalling the cultural shocks he faced, he said, “Several cultural shocks - weather, German bureaucracy, education system was different, super disciplined and punctual, so many more.”
India vs Germany: Work culture
Banerjee expressed, “Major differences in work culture are that in Europe, employers are extremely empathetic towards employee health and family. That is given first priority. Work hours are fixed. No overtime culture. Enough vacation days to keep mental and physical health functioning, HR themselves keep reminding you to take leaves, work is given high priority, but nobody sits on your shoulders to micromanage.”
He also shared a piece of advice for Indians planning to relocate to Germany. “I would suggest to learn German given the current scenario.”
