Burcu Arslan (30)

Where do you work?

I work as an Account Director at LinkedIn in Berlin. My remit includes healthcare in the DACH region as well as cooperation with the United Nations and NGOs. LinkedIn is a professional network that helps people to access resources and business opportunities. Our goal is to deliver software solutions that give everyone equal access to jobs, personnel, training and other resources and in doing so to democratise the labour market.

My area is Talent Solutions. The tasks include advising companies and organisations in B2B sales, conducting strategy negotiations and developing solutions to streamline the process of filling hospital vacancies, among others. Although my role is in sales, I have lots of freedom to look after my customers and conclude contracts. Trust and positive collaboration are my top priorities. My day-to-day work is varied. I talk to a lot people and meet customers at trade fairs or visit them directly in their organisations.

This work is more than just a job for me: it is my mission to bring talents and hospitals together. The healthcare system is an essential part of our society, and I want to help strengthen it through my work. My aim is to counteract the shortage of skilled workers and at the same time give something back to my home country of Germany. LinkedIn gives me the chance to bring my values to life, make a real difference and promote social justice.

BURCU’S TIP

We are currently looking for reinforcements! The Talent Solutions Sales Team has a vacancy for a Hybrid Account Director – Public Sector (m/f/o). Apply now if you would like to be part of a dedicated team and sell our talent and learning products!

What made you choose Berlin?

I'm originally from Bielefeld and have worked in various cities and countries since the age of 18, including New York, South Korea, Düsseldorf and most recently Munich. I liked Munich, but the people there tend to be quite similar to each other. I often felt ‘different’ – and I was often made to feel that way, too.

When I was given the professional opportunity to choose where I want to live, I made a conscious decision in favour of Berlin. I moved here six months ago and I have not regretted this decision for a second. Berlin feels like it really suits who I am.

What do you love about Berlin?

Berlin is open, colourful and has space for diversity. I belong here and at the same time enjoy an anonymity that I really appreciate, as nobody looks at me a second time or asks where I come from. In Berlin, I can embrace the different facets of my personality – whether as an expert on specialist topics or simply in my private life as Burcu.

The city is a melting pot of different identities and realities that have space to coexist harmoniously. This is what sets Berlin apart from other cities, many of which tend to reflect just one particular side. Berlin is brimming with prospects and offers plenty of reasons for optimism.

Who or what helped you to settle in when you first arrived in Berlin?

Berlin attracts a lot of people, and I was lucky enough to have some friends from earlier times of my life who were already living here. I was embedded within a support network from day one.

My colleagues at LinkedIn also helped me find my feet in the city. Not only did he explain the city and its structure, he also introduced me to the peculiarities of Berlin residents. I immediately felt at home with his support.

If you have one tip for a newcomer in Berlin, what would it be?

Be open and inquisitive! Berlin is unique, and that’s what makes the city special. Prejudice will often lead to disappointment. Let the city be what it is and find your place – it is definitely here. There is a special beauty in Berlin's chaos just waiting to be discovered. And if you do find it, you will love Berlin.