German labor market shows generational shifts in recruitment and career change

Recent findings in the German labor market highlight shifting priorities in recruitment and career transitions. A survey conducted by Civey for the BSBI School of Business and Innovation reveals a generational divide among HR decision-makers. Younger recruiters (ages 18–29) place an overwhelming emphasis on practical experience, with 95% citing it as the most important factor, while academic content holds minimal weight at 1.7%. In contrast, older recruiters prioritize different criteria: those aged 30–39 focus on academic qualifications (71%), while those over 65 prioritize social competencies (84%).

Parallel to these recruitment trends, new professional services are emerging to support mid-career transitions. Daniel Gerlach’s ‘Zweitkarriere’ program offers a structured approach for experienced professionals looking to change industries without immediate resignation. The process involves a four-stage model: situational assessment, direction comparison, small-scale testing through pilot projects or interviews, and the creation of a transition plan. This allows workers to explore new roles alongside their current full-time employment to mitigate financial and professional risks.