Chemnitz_zieht_an_Magazin_2024_englisch

Fotos: Domeba
Luz Patricia Arévalo Pardo
Luz Patricia Arévalo Pardo from Colombia,
Test Engineer
In Germany since 2007
How was integration into the company and
the local community for you?
At the beginning, it’s important to find social
networks that already exist. Initially, I had the
support of my husband’s family and a group
of Latin American women who advised me
on many legal and cultural issues. However,
to avoid remaining isolated and to integrate
into the new culture, it’s essential to create
your own networks over time.
How welcome and accepted do you feel in
your new environment?
At domeba in particular, everyone has
made me feel part of the organisation, both
at work and socially. I feel respected and
considered when I suggest concepts or give
my opinions on professional topics. They let
me be myself, and they’re interested in my
culture and professional experiences.
What is the biggest difference between
Colombia and Germany?
We Colombians are happy with, and proud
of, what we do and who we are. Although the
Germans have achieved much more than
others can achieve, they aren’t able to be
proud of themselves. That’s something they
should change. I love both countries, but I
have planted my roots here, and that makes
Germany special.
Mariangela Giannattasio
Mariangela Giannattasio from Italy, International
Activities Coordinator
In Germany since 2020
How was integration into the company
and the local community for you?
At the beginning, my German language
skills weren’t good enough. That led
to some challenges. But the German
language is really beautiful and rich
in nuances. And by working here and
attending intensive German courses, I
was able to familiarise myself not only
with the language but also with the local
mentality. My colleagues have always
been helpful and interested in Italian
culture.
What helped you the most to find your
feet in your new work and social environment?
I firmly believe that the core values on
which a company is based have a significant
impact on the onboarding process
and everyday work. Having friendly and
patient colleagues naturally makes a big
difference. What I can recommend to
everyone as a way to expand their social
circle is to take part in German courses
and join sports groups.
Robert Montell
Robert Montell from Finland,
Test Engineer
In Germany since 2023
What cultural differences or similarities
are there between Finland and Germany?
Germans are generally much more
open-minded than Finns. Outside Finland,
this makes it much easier to enter
unfamiliar environments. There’s also a
clear difference in the way of thinking:
in Germany, there isn’t much thinking
and more doing, which gives me extra
motivation. People here also don’t try
to simply shirk their responsibilities, but
face up to them instead.
Do you have any advice or suggestions
for improving the culture of welcome in
Germany?
The locals should practise their English
more. This could improve communication
with international workers who speak
little or no German.
What tips would you give to other international
professionals facing a similar
career change?
Don’t be afraid of making mistakes,
be curious and take every opportunity
– whether it’s at work or in your free
time. In the beginning, everything will be
new and seem overwhelming, but that’s
completely fine.
53