Yesterday the World Happiness Report was published, shedding light on what factors contribute to people’s happiness. Germany is ranked as number 24 from 143 countries. As we reflect on Germany’s ranking and the elements that influence residents’ well-being, it becomes evident that creating a supportive environment for newcomers is paramount. For firms seeking to hire employees from abroad, facilitating a smooth transition involves more than just settling into a new job—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and providing resources to navigate life in a new country.
The report looks at 6 factors over a three-year average: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, having someone to count on, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and freedom from corruption. The World Happiness Report notes ‘we use observed data on the six variables and estimates of their associations with life evaluations to help explain the variation of life evaluations across countries, much as epidemiologists estimate the extent to which life expectancy is affected by factors such as smoking, exercise, and diet.’ In reading the report, I was surprised that the findings are linked to a country’s population or residents, and that citizenship or place of birth had almost no impact on the overall outcomes.
At Local Worldwide Relocation, we understand the importance of this transition period, which is why our Orientation Tours are designed to offer invaluable insights and support. Our team of local consultants, many of whom have personal experience with relocation from living abroad, some are expats themselves or their families immigrated to Germany, are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and helping newcomers feel at home in Germany. From exploring historical landmarks to discussing practical matters like banking, the German school system, using local transportation, enrolling in languages classes, hobbies and more, we aim to equip our clients with the tools they need to thrive in their new environment.
Truth be told-this is one of my favorite services to coordinate with our clients. I usually meet the client in the city center or pick up them up near their temporary accommodations. We have made a plan for the day to visit various landmarks in the city—Bremen is after all part of Brother Grimm’s Fairytale Street (Die Deutsche Märchenstraße,)—walk through potential neighbourhoods where the assignee might wish to live and visit different districts of cultural significance. Through our services, we not only provide guidance but also foster connections that can enhance the expat experience. Moving to a new country can be daunting, but with the right support system in place, it becomes an exciting adventure filled with endless opportunities for growth and happiness.
So whether you’re a firm looking to support your international employees or an expat embarking on a new journey, remember that you’re not alone. At Local Worldwide Relocation, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Let’s make your transition to Germany a smooth and fulfilling one. Welcome to your new home!
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