Lost Your Job in Germany? Maybe It’s Time to Finally Be Your Own Boss

I remember the exact moment I learned that my role was no longer needed. It was October 2022, just one week before I was supposed to return to work from maternity leave. There I was—highly skilled, well-educated, bursting with energy and enthusiasm—only to receive the news that my employer couldn't offer me any alternative position. The shock felt like a cold shower on a freezing winter day.

If you're reading this because you've recently lost your job in Germany, trust me, I deeply empathize with you. Losing employment unexpectedly is challenging enough for anyone. For immigrants and expats, the uncertainty can feel even more intense. But I’m also here to tell you something important: this difficult moment could actually be the start of something incredible. Maybe, like it was for me, it's your sign from the universe to finally start doing what you've always dreamed of—becoming your own boss.

Turning Setbacks into Opportunities

In hindsight, losing my job turned out to be one of the most transformative events in my life. Before my maternity leave ended, I had already been toying with the idea of entrepreneurship, but comfort, routine, and financial security kept holding me back. Now, suddenly faced with unemployment, I no longer had excuses. It was time to act.

Maybe you recognize yourself in this scenario. Perhaps you have an idea, a passion, or expertise you've always thought could turn into a successful business. Yet stability, steady paychecks, or simply fear of the unknown stopped you from taking the leap. Now, the choice has essentially been made for you—and this could be your perfect opportunity to embrace change and finally pursue your entrepreneurial dream.

If you are feeling uncertain about where you stand or how balanced your life currently is, consider downloading The Wheel of Life: Mapping Your Journey to Balance and Fulfillment—it’s a practical tool to help you assess your current situation and gain clarity.

5 Steps from Unemployment to Self-Employment in Germany

Here are the practical steps I followed (and recommend to others in the same situation) to quickly and confidently shift from unemployment to entrepreneurship:

1. Take Time to Reflect and Clarify Your Business Idea

When suddenly unemployed, your first instinct might be panic. Take a breath instead. Allow yourself some time to grieve the loss of your job, and resist jumping immediately into big decisions without fully processing what just happened. Take the first few weeks of unemployment to slow down, reflect deeply, and ask yourself critical questions: What skills do you have that others need? What problems can you solve? How can your international background add unique value? Take this opportunity to clearly define your business idea and identify exactly what your target market needs. To help structure your thinking and get clarity, you might consider downloading my Founder Discovery Workbook.

2. Check Your Eligibility for Financial Support in Germany

One of my greatest initial concerns was finances. Like many expats, I wasn't fully aware of Germany's support systems. It’s crucial to quickly check if you're eligible for grants like the Gründungszuschuss—financial support provided by the Agentur für Arbeit that helps unemployed individuals start their own businesses. Additionally, explore whether you can access professional coaching through the AVGS voucher, another valuable resource for expats that finances business coaching without any out-of-pocket costs.

3. Create a Strong, Compelling Business Plan

In Germany, particularly if applying for grants like the Gründungszuschuss, you’ll need a solid business plan. This document will not only secure funding but also serve as your strategic roadmap. Clearly outline your business model, financial goals, marketing strategy, and exactly how you plan to attract and retain clients.

4. Officially Set Up Your Business in Germany

Once your business idea and plan are clear, it's time to register your business officially. In Germany, you'll usually choose between registering as a freelancer (Freiberufler) or establishing a commercial business (Gewerbe). Ensure you understand the differences and implications, especially regarding taxes and bookkeeping.

5. Build Your Professional Network and Visibility

One advantage of being an expat or immigrant is your unique international perspective and connections. Leverage this advantage by actively building your network—both locally and internationally. Clearly communicate your new professional identity and services, update your LinkedIn profile, and consider creating a simple website or professional landing page to attract potential clients.

Turning Crisis into Confidence

I won't sugarcoat it—starting your own business is challenging, especially when prompted by unexpected job loss. But trust me, it's equally rewarding. After losing my job, I realized it was exactly the push I needed to finally take action. By leveraging available resources, clearly defining my business idea, and embracing my unique skills, I successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship. Today, I run a thriving coaching practice, empowering others to navigate similar journeys.

If you're at the crossroads of unemployment and entrepreneurship, consider this your moment to step into the role you've always imagined—becoming your own boss. You have the skills, talent, and resilience it takes. And who knows? One day, you might look back and see this challenging moment as your greatest turning point.

Ready to explore your next steps? Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—I’ve been there, and I’d love to help you navigate your journey. You can book a free 30 minute consultation with me here 👉 My Calendar