German labor courts recognize a phase that comes even before the probation. It is called the Einfühlungsverhältnis, literally a relationship for feeling one’s way in. A candidate spends a few days in the company before being hired, to get to know the work and the people. No employment relationship arises. There is no duty to work, no right to pay, and the employer may not give instructions. Several state labor courts have recognized it since 1989. Lawyers advise keeping it to a few days.