From Iran to adjoe: My Hamburg Relocation Story

A little over a month ago, I embarked on an exciting new chapter in my life by joining adjoe , a dynamic company based in Hamburg, Germany. As someone who had never lived outside of Iran, the prospect of moving to a new country was both thrilling and daunting.

However, from the moment I arrived, both adjoe and the city of Hamburg made this transition incredibly smooth and welcoming. I’d like to share my experiences so far, highlighting how adjoe has made me feel right at home and how I’m falling in love with this vibrant city.?

Relocating to Hamburg

Relocating to a new country can be overwhelming, but the company went above and beyond to ensure that my move to Hamburg was as stress-free as possible. They covered all my relocation expenses, including flights, moving costs, and even provided a short-stay option. This allowed me to take my time finding a permanent place to live, without the pressure of needing to make immediate decisions. Knowing that I had this support made the process much easier and allowed me to focus on settling into my new role and environment.

Arriving at adjoe, I was greeted with a warm and genuine welcome. The company’s onboarding process was incredibly smooth, and everyone was eager to help me get up to speed. What particularly stood out to me was my first Monday meeting — a weekly tradition at adjoe where the entire team gathers to share updates. During that meeting, I was introduced as the new joiner, and the team clapped and cheered for me. This small gesture made a huge impact, instantly making me feel like a valued member of the adjoe family.

The Welcome Package

adjoe understands the importance of making new employees feel comfortable and well-equipped to succeed from day one. Upon my arrival, I received a welcome package that far exceeded my expectations. Inside was the latest MacBook Pro, a 4K monitor on my height-adjustable desk, and some awesome merch. This package was not only practical but also a clear indication that adjoe is committed to providing its employees with the best tools and environment to thrive. And whenever I asked for new gear, they just provided me with the best options really quickly! Once I asked for a magic trackpad and they gave it to me instantly! How cool is that? At least for me it was so fun!

The office itself is a fantastic space that balances productivity with a touch of fun. We have a well-stocked pantry full of snacks to keep us energized throughout the day and a ping pong table that has become a popular spot for quick breaks and friendly competitions. The work environment is casual yet focused, allowing for a perfect balance between getting things done and enjoying the time spent at the office. Even though I have the option of working remotely, I prefer to come to the office everyday!

Another aspect of working here that I particularly appreciate is the bi-weekly 1:1 feedback sessions with my manager. These sessions have been incredibly valuable in helping me understand my progress and areas for improvement. Receiving clear and constructive feedback regularly has been instrumental in my professional growth, and it’s reassuring to know that my manager is invested in my development.

Discovering Hamburg

Hamburg has quickly become one of my favorite cities, and exploring it has been one of the highlights of my relocation. The city is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and modernity. During my first few weeks, I took the opportunity to visit some of Hamburg’s most iconic landmarks, such as the majestic Hamburg Rathaus, the awe-inspiring Elbphilharmonie, and the historic old warehouse district. Each location offered a unique glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.

As a newcomer, I was initially concerned about how I would navigate daily life in a foreign country, but Hamburg has exceeded my expectations in every way. The public transport system in Germany, and particularly in Hamburg, is exceptional. The network of buses and trains is efficient, punctual, and easy to navigate, making it incredibly convenient to get around the city. Whether I’m heading to the office or exploring a new neighborhood, I’ve found the public transport to be reliable and user-friendly. This has made adjusting to life in Hamburg so much easier, as I don’t have to worry about getting lost or being late. adjoe also offers a subsidy for the monthly HVV travel ticket!

One of the most pleasant surprises has been the food scene in Hamburg. The city offers a wide variety of restaurants, catering to all tastes and preferences. As someone who has moved from Iran, I was thrilled to discover that Hamburg has a number of Iranian stores and restaurants. This has been a huge plus for me, as it means I can still enjoy the flavors of home whenever I’m feeling nostalgic. Being able to find familiar ingredients and dishes has made the transition to living in a new country much smoother and more comforting.

A Challenging and Rewarding Work Experience

At adjoe, the work we do is both challenging and rewarding. The projects I’m involved in require a lot of dedication and focus, but they also offer tremendous opportunities for learning and growth. What I appreciate most is the company’s emphasis on collaboration and innovation.

Working on these projects is both exciting and fulfilling. The team at adjoe is incredibly supportive, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie that makes even the toughest days enjoyable. Knowing that I’m contributing to something meaningful, while also being supported by such a talented and diverse group of people, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here so far.

Embracing a Multicultural Environment

One of the things that initially concerned me about moving to Germany was the language barrier. However, adjoe’s multicultural environment has made this a non-issue. adjoe is home to people from all over the world, and English is the primary language of communication. This has made it easy for me to integrate into the team and feel comfortable in my new surroundings without the added pressure of learning a new language right away. Of course, it was still a bit difficult at first, but I think I’m getting used to it.

The diversity at adjoe is truly one of its strengths. Working alongside people from different backgrounds and cultures has enriched my experience and broadened my perspective. It’s been fascinating to learn from my colleagues, both professionally and personally, and this multicultural environment has made my transition to life in Germany much more fun!

Joining adjoe has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I’m eager to continue growing both personally and professionally in this incredible environment. As I look ahead, I’m excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and I’m confident that, with my supportive colleagues and in the wonderful city of Hamburg, the future is bright.