Corporate consultants lead in overtime, working 5.18 extra hours weekly, according to Compensation Partners' 2019 report. High competition in jobs like consulting, law, and banking often results in significant overtime. In 2017, Germans worked over two billion overtime hours, with 54% of employees regularly working extra hours. Legal regulations cap maximum work hours and mandate breaks, but high earners often don't get paid for overtime. The hospitality industry sees the highest overtime, with full-time employees working 47.6 hours weekly. Upcoming regulations will require electronic time tracking for all employees. Over a career, managers accumulate significant overtime, with age and job level influencing overtime hours.

Stress has become a common issue in modern workplaces, with more than half of employees feeling regularly rushed. High-stress levels, particularly in IT and scientific fields, affect both work and personal life. The article discusses the importance of recognizing stress symptoms early and suggests that both employees and employers have roles in mitigating stress. Key strategies include clear communication, setting boundaries, and engaging in stress-relieving activities like exercise. Experts emphasize the need for a supportive work environment and proper work-life balance to prevent burnout.

Overtime is a common aspect of work life for many employees in Germany, with more than half of the workforce engaging in extra work. The reasons for overtime vary, including skill shortages and urgent company projects. The Institute for Employment Research (IAB) notes that while the amount of overtime remains constant, the method of compensation has shifted towards time off rather than monetary payment. German labor laws limit overtime and require compensation within six months. Different types of employees experience varying compensation methods, with some receiving payment, others using time accounts, and some having overtime included in their salary. Legal experts advise that if overtime is not specified in the employment contract, it must be explicitly ordered and compensated by the employer. The European Court of Justice has ruled that companies must implement systems to measure daily working hours, shifting the burden of proof from employees to employers. The article also highlights that high earners and certain professions, such as consultants, often work more overtime without compensation. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) emphasizes the legal requirement for employers to record working hours, even under trust-based working time models.

Overtime is a common aspect of work life for many employees in Germany, with more than half of the workforce engaging in extra work. The reasons for overtime vary, including skill shortages and urgent company projects. The Institute for Employment Research (IAB) notes that while the amount of overtime remains constant, the method of compensation has shifted towards time off rather than monetary payment. German labor laws limit overtime and require compensation within six months. Different types of employees experience varying compensation methods, with some receiving payment, others using time accounts, and some having overtime included in their salary. Legal experts advise that if overtime is not specified in the employment contract, it must be explicitly ordered and compensated by the employer. The European Court of Justice has ruled that companies must implement systems to measure daily working hours, shifting the burden of proof from employees to employers. The article also highlights that high earners and certain professions, such as consultants, often work more overtime without compensation. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) emphasizes the need for employers to record working hours and criticizes the expectation of unpaid overtime in many companies.

The article discusses Poland's economic performance under the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, despite criticism from Brussels over judicial reforms. Poland's economy, dubbed the 'Polish Tiger', has shown strong GDP growth and low unemployment rates. The private sector's development post-communism and EU membership in 2004 have contributed to this success. Chief Economist at ING Bank Poland, Rafal Benecki, highlights the economy's diversification and growth. PiS's popular social programs, though increasing the tax burden on businesses, are expected to continue if re-elected, with promises of increased minimum wage and pensions. The opposition party, Civic Platform, proposes more business-friendly policies. The article also touches on the importance of Poland's relationship with the EU, as Poland is a significant net recipient of EU funds and heavily reliant on EU export markets.

Graduates often consider trainee programs as a pathway to their desired careers. These programs, offered by both large corporations and small businesses, allow new employees to explore various departments and gain valuable experience. While trainee programs can be beneficial, they often come with lower salaries compared to direct entry positions. Experts advise careful evaluation of the program's structure and terms, as there are no binding regulations governing them. The application process for these programs can be rigorous, with companies using detailed assessments to select candidates.

Determining whether to use the informal 'you' or the formal 'you' in the office can be challenging, especially with new colleagues. This issue exemplifies a transforming work environment aiming to be younger, more international, and modern. The traditionally respectful formal 'you' in German corporate culture appears to be declining. However, experts advise caution when using the informal 'you' between bosses and employees, as it can be exploited. Employees should carefully consider their decision.

Corporate consultants top the list for overtime, working 5.18 extra hours weekly, according to Compensation Partners' 2019 report. High competition in jobs like consulting, law, and banking often leads to overtime. Legal frameworks like the Arbeitszeitgesetz apply to all sectors, but managerial roles often see unpaid overtime due to higher salaries. The hospitality industry also sees significant overtime, with many hours unpaid. Upcoming regulations will require electronic tracking of work hours. Overtime trends vary by industry, with service sectors seeing more unpaid hours. Age and career stage also influence overtime, with older employees working more extra hours.