Mentioning girlfriend in interview as reason for relocation

North of 32

I have an interview later for an entry position with a large outsourcing company in Germany. The role is in the same town where my girlfriend lives and this makes it quite attractive to me.

I have an answer prepared for why I want to move to Germany detailing professional reasons (learning, growth, suitability to the job), but should I also mention the fact that it suits me on a personal level too because my girlfriend lives in the same town?

oakshade

I was in a similar position a good few years back albeit moving within Ireland. I mentioned it, don't think it did any harm anyway.

Hercule Poirot

North of 32 wrote: »

I have an interview later for an entry position with a large outsourcing company in Germany. The role is in the same town where my girlfriend lives and this makes it quite attractive to me.

I have an answer prepared for why I want to move to Germany detailing professional reasons (learning, growth, suitability to the job), but should I also mention the fact that it suits me on a personal level too because my girlfriend lives in the same town?

I can't see any harm in mentioning that a relocation will benefit you personally, I was in situation where I could tell the interviewer didn't quite believe that I was willing to leave a large city to move to a much smaller town - once I mentioned that I had family that wouldn't be too far away and that I missed being near my family it got me over the line.

livedadream

North of 32 wrote: »

I have an interview later for an entry position with a large outsourcing company in Germany. The role is in the same town where my girlfriend lives and this makes it quite attractive to me.

I have an answer prepared for why I want to move to Germany detailing professional reasons (learning, growth, suitability to the job), but should I also mention the fact that it suits me on a personal level too because my girlfriend lives in the same town?

if they ask why not, it shows you have an investment other then just work there.

sawfish

North of 32 wrote: »

I have an interview later for an entry position with a large outsourcing company in Germany. The role is in the same town where my girlfriend lives and this makes it quite attractive to me.

I have an answer prepared for why I want to move to Germany detailing professional reasons (learning, growth, suitability to the job), but should I also mention the fact that it suits me on a personal level too because my girlfriend lives in the same town?

I would say definitely mention it. They would rather somebody relocate with the support of a partner than on their on with no connections in the area.

Stealthfins

They'll also know when you're over there you'll be able to give them an address and reside very fast.
There will be no hassle for you trying to get accommodation,that's if you're moving it together.
Wish you luck young man.

Mrs OBumble

In Ireland, I would definitely mention it.

In Germany - ask your girlfriend for cultural advice on how it would be seen to mention it. She's likely to know more about German employers than most of us. Or maybe she can ask her family members for advice if she's not sure.

seamus

Yes. It means you won't be heading back to Dublin every other week or finding yourself homesick to go back in 3 months' time. If you have someone else here with you, you have a support network and won't be sitting alone in your bedroom wondering whether you made the right move.

That's what the recruiter hears when you tell them you're moving over to be with a partner.

Bandana boy

The only downside I can see is they might low ball you on the Salary offer knowing you have a large incentive outside of salary to work with them.

hawkwind23

Feck all that thinking , they are only humans not some sort of superior race who every detail and thought must be monitored and assessed.
Just be yourself and be honest, life is much easier this way.
Try at all times to end that subservient attitude esp in work.
You have a GF there and thats why your excited about the job ,why wouldnt you tell them?

North of 32

Thanks for all the replies folks! A second interview tomorrow!

LirW

Had the same question in every single interview here in Dublin, answered truthfully that I moved to Ireland with my fiance who's Irish. It made sense because nothing in my CV had any connection to Ireland before.

Smondie

Yes mention it. I worked in Germany for years and they are quite open to understanding moving for love/family.

North of 32

Got the job - thank you for your help!

She seemed wary of my intentions to move to Germany until I mentioned my girlfriend. I think it worked out as a big plus.

shaunr68

Congratulations on the job and the move. I was going to suggest fibbing and referring to her as a fiance, makes it sound a little bit more serious, but glad that it worked out for you.

Bandana boy

North of 32 wrote: »

Got the job - thank you for your help!

She seemed wary of my intentions to move to Germany until I mentioned my girlfriend. I think it worked out as a big plus.

Well Done
I am delighted for you

Best of luck with it