„Working with different people from all over the world“
Interview: 6 questions, 7 answers
„Working with different people from all over the world“
Niklas Bothe
Field of study: Law, Human Resources Management and Psychology Now: Personnel Support
Niklas Bothe studied law, human resources management and psychology and has been a valuable member of DLR's Human Resources department in Braunschweig since 2022. In this interview, he shares insights into his role and experiences.
Niklas, what do you look forward to when coming to work in the morning?
Niklas: When I set out each morning, I look forward to a well-structured yet diverse work environment, where working with individuals from all corners of the world often brings unexpected surprises. Our team has a great rapport, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can always find a sympathetic ear when faced with challenging questions. Overall, I eagerly anticipate my work each day because I find it very fulfilling, and the content of my work is always engaging.
What are you working on?
Niklas: I work as a human resources officer in the DLR Human Resources department based in Braunschweig. Our primary mission is to assist DLR institutes and facilities with any personnel-related matters that may arise during the course of employment. We are also readily available to address employees' questions and concerns related to their work.
„A relaxed atmosphere where you can always find a sympathetic ear when faced with challenging questions“
What does your typical working day involve?
Niklas: My daily responsibilities revolve around handling various human resources processes that may arise during employment at DLR. Our department is structured so that my colleagues and I are assigned to specific institutes at the DLR Braunschweig site, where we handle personnel matters directly and individually. We collaborate closely with the secretariats and assistants of department heads or institute directors. They communicate their personnel requirements to us through formal requests that often include sample documents for actions such as recruitment or contract extensions, which we then process. Additionally, we work in close cooperation with the works council at the site, whose approval is necessary for certain personnel actions, such as hiring or contract extensions.
Human resources officer Niklas Bothe looks forward to varied workdays and diversity at DLR
However, this is just one aspect of our multifaceted role. I also have a unique role as a personnel officer – I serve as a floater to support the Human Resource departments at other sites. For a specific period, usually two to four weeks, I work at another site to provide immediate assistance and cover any staff absences.
How does your work support the staff and goals of DLR?
„An administrative body that ensures DLR's personnel needs are met sustainably“
Niklas: In collaboration with various offices, especially the DLR institutes and facilities, our department acts as an administrative body that ensures that DLR's personnel needs at the Braunschweig, Manching, Trauen, Geesthacht and Stade sites are met sustainably. We are responsible for creating various contract documents, which serve as the foundation for employee recruitment, contract extensions and, if necessary, terminations.
Niklas appreciates the good atmosphere in the team
Niklas: The highlights of my work include the often exciting and diverse workdays where clear planning isn't always possible, leading to on-the-spot decision-making. This dynamic environment fosters personal and professional growth. Furthermore, I enjoy getting to know the diverse personalities, especially during the recruitment process, and witnessing the range of talent within DLR.
„DLR enables anyone and everyone to take their first steps into the world of work in a secure and promising, yet challenging, work environment“
What special skills can you make good use of in your job?
Niklas: Given the extensive interactions with diverse personalities, strong interpersonal and communication skills are indispensable in my role. Effective organisational skills are also crucial for efficient process structuring and prioritisation. As a floater for various personnel support services, my curiosity to meet new people and adapt to new situations helps me address challenges with an open mind and a solution-oriented approach.
Leave us a final thought.
Niklas: As a recent graduate, I highly recommend DLR as an employer, especially for younger applicants. DLR enables anyone and everyone to take their first steps into the world of work in a secure and promising, yet challenging, work environment. During my short tenure at DLR, I've gained invaluable experience through numerous exciting projects, particularly those aimed at advancing the digitalisation of the HR department at DLR. These experiences continue to challenge and enhance my personal and professional development.
