Questions & Answers:
Everything about colorbirds
What does colorbirds do?
colorbirds is a recruitment agency for hosts, promoters, and models in the greater Bavaria area. As a partner of Messe München and Messe Nürnberg, there are many jobs available at trade fairs in addition to traditional events and promotional campaigns.
Despite digitalization, personal contact is very important to us at colorbirds! We are a rapidly growing community and our colorbirds come from many different countries. We love it so colorful! Our motto is: “We are all ONE.”
In which cities is colorbirds represented?
We offer a variety of flexible part-time jobs in the greater Munich area. From time to time, we also have positions available in other major cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt. Add all cities that are suitable for you to your personal profile under “Work locations.”
What do I need to bring with me to become a Colorbird?
You should definitely be friendly and outgoing and enjoy working with people. You should also have a well-groomed appearance and enjoy working in a team. In addition to very good German language skills, other languages are an advantage. Even if this is your very first job at colorbirds, don’t worry! We will deliberately assign you to experienced colorbirds who will be happy to show you everything.
Click here to apply.
How am I employed at colorbirds?
colorbirds offers jobs exclusively through so-called “short-term employment.”
Advantages:
- Unlike mini-jobs based on €538, short-term employment is not subject to flat-rate taxation. Therefore, we will register you with your income tax bracket in the months in which you work as a colorbird.
- You are insured with us during your assignment and on your way there.
- Short-term employment allows you to work only when you want to. You are not required to work a minimum number of hours per month.
- Short-term employment is exempt from social security contributions. This means you will have little to no deductions, depending on how much you earn alongside your colorbirds job.
How can I contact colorbirds?
If you have any general questions, you can contact us as follows:
- by email to helpdesk@colorbirds.de
- or call 089 9982 0958 0
Our opening hours are Monday–Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. If you are booked for a project, you can contact your project manager directly via the messaging tool in the app.
What language skills are required?
Good German language skills are important. If you speak other languages, that is very welcome!
I am a non-EU citizen and would like to work as a Colorbird:
We need your ID card or passport (front and back), as well as your residence permit with your work permit.
What is the difference between a framework agreement and assignment details?
At the beginning of your employment, you must confirm your framework agreement. It is sufficient to confirm this in your Staffcloud profile. This agreement is valid until the end of the current year and regulates all the basics of short-term employment with us. It is a prerequisite for working with us. However, you will receive assignment details for each separate job you accept with us. These details include who you will be hired by, how much you will be paid, and what your tasks will be. Assignment details must be signed digitally at least one day before the job.
How do I cancel my subscription with colorbirds?
With us, no termination is necessary, as you are only contracted for one event at a time and are otherwise completely free. However, if you do not wish to receive any further job emails, you must inform us if you wish to unsubscribe. Please send us a message at helpdesk@colorbirds.de. It is important to let us know whether you want us to delete your data completely or if you just want to take a break, for example, because you are going abroad for a few months.
“Inactive” means that your profile remains intact, but you will no longer receive emails from us. This allows us to reactivate your profile at any time upon your request, and you can get started with us right away. If you delete your profile, you will have to re-register and go through our application process again.
Everything you need to know about your application
How do I apply to colorbirds?
Please register in our system first. We will then get back to you as soon as possible. After submitting your application in our system, you will receive invitations to our colorbirds ACADEMY by email. To register for a suitable date, simply click on “Invited.” If this does not work, please send us an email to helpdesk@colorbirds.de letting us know which date you would like to attend. In a small group, you will receive lots of information about the agency and our processes, and you will get to know some of our employees. Of course, this is also about you! You will have the opportunity to introduce yourself and tell us a few things about yourself, so that we can get a first impression of you.
How do I communicate with colorbirds?
If you have any questions or requests regarding your assignment, please contact your project manager by email, app, or phone.
If you have any questions about accounting (e.g., payroll accounting, changes to non-editable fields such as IBAN, income tax bracket), our accounting department will be happy to assist you by email at buchhaltung@colorbirds.de.
Why does colorbirds need pictures of me? What do I need to bear in mind?
Here we show you how to create the perfect Sedcard at colorbirds.
The Sedcard is basically your business card, which we use to introduce you to our clients—your chance to impress them! For this, we need at least three photos of you: two portraits and one full-body photo. We would love to see professional photos taken by a photographer, but you are also welcome to ask family or friends to take a few photos of you.
Please make sure that you have a neutral background, that the photo is only of YOU and not a cropped section of a group photo, and that your camera resolution is set to high. Please avoid shadows on your face/body. If you have long hair, please take one portrait with your hair down and one with your hair tied back. Please also make sure you wear neutral clothing in your pictures (crop tops, low necklines, etc. are not appropriate here). This can be a plain T-shirt and neat pants or even a business outfit. Try to add a little variety to your pictures so that you don’t have the same facial expression and outfit three times.
In general, it is important that you appear friendly in the pictures – so please turn up the corners of your mouth! Please keep us informed if you make any changes to your appearance, e.g., your hair color. You can upload current photos to your personal profile at any time.
My friend received a job offer by email, but I didn't. Why is that?
We often receive clear specifications from our clients, which we use to filter our database for job postings. This means that you may receive a job offer, but your friend may not—and vice versa. For example, the client may have ordered shoes in size 40 for their hosts/hostesses, but you wear size 38. As you can see, it often comes down to small details and has nothing to do with your personality. So please don’t take it personally if you don’t receive a job offer!
I applied immediately after receiving the job invitation. Why didn't I get the job?
The sooner you apply for a job with us, the higher your chances of being shortlisted. Generally speaking, there are a limited number of positions available—once they are filled, they are filled. In some cases, we are able to decide for ourselves who we want to hire for the jobs. We look at how you performed in your last assignments, what qualifications you have, and whether we think the job is a good fit for you. Often, the decision also depends on the client. That’s why it can sometimes take a few days before we can give you a final yes or no. To increase your chances, please make sure that we have sufficient and good-quality photos of you.
What happens after the Academy / when will I receive my login details for Staffcloud?
If we at the Academy have a favorable impression of you, you will receive an email by the next day at the latest informing you that your application has been accepted. In this email, you will be asked to complete your profile. This means filling in your details, uploading proof of your status, and confirming the framework agreement. We will then check that all the information is complete and correct. If everything is in order, we will approve your profile and you will receive your personal login details for Staffcloud. You can then log in to the Staffcloud app/browser and receive all future job invitations.
I haven't heard back yet after applying for a job. What does that mean?
As a rule, the final allocation takes place approximately one week before the event. All applicants who we are unable to accept due to the high number of applicants will receive a rejection letter from us. If you have not received any feedback three days before the event, you can normally assume that you have not been booked. We make every effort to notify you of any rejections in a timely manner. However, during busy trade fair periods, this can sometimes be difficult. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Why does colorbirds need pictures of me? What do I need to bear in mind?
Here we show you how to create the perfect Sedcard at colorbirds.
Everything about your assignment
How can I confirm my contract/assignment details digitally?
As soon as your assignment details are stored in your personal profile, you will receive an automatic message. Please check all the details carefully. If everything is correct, confirm the contract by entering the date and time and clicking on “Save.” You will receive your personal password to open the PDF in the automatic email.
Important: This only works with the following browsers: Google Chrome/Firefox
What tasks will I be responsible for as a colorbird?
The tasks range from putting together goodie bags, registration, and cashier duties to manning the trade fair booth/information counter, light service duties, and much more! Once you’ve been with us for a while, you’ll see that it never gets boring and that you’ll gain insight into a wide variety of areas!
I want to work on a job together with my friends. How does that work?
We would be delighted if you recommended us to your friends and helped our colorful colorbirds community grow. At many large events and trade fairs, you have the opportunity to work together with your friends. That makes earning money twice as much fun. The sooner you announce this, the higher the chance of working together.
When will I receive my briefing?
You will usually receive your briefing 1-3 days before your assignment so that you have enough time to prepare for the check call.
What is a check call?
The check call takes place the day before your assignment and clarifies all the details once again. We discuss styling, dress code, and the meeting point. We brief you again by phone on what the customer values and what you need to bear in mind, so that nothing stands in the way of a successful assignment.
Who should I contact in case of delay/illness before my assignment?
As a general rule, the sooner you let us know, the better. Please ALWAYS contact your project manager (contact number in the briefing or contact number on Staffcloud) and NOT the client directly. This gives us the opportunity to take immediate action and organize a replacement for you if necessary.
What should I wear for my assignment?
There is no general answer to this question; it depends entirely on your assignment. Our job offers therefore describe the clothing you should wear for your assignment. In general, most host/hostess jobs require a private black and white business outfit (black trousers, white blouse/shirt, black blazer/jacket, black smart shoes). If you do not own these items and would like to do more hostess jobs, it makes sense to purchase them.
Promotional jobs are usually a bit more casual. You will often be asked to wear your own neat jeans (without rips) and clean sneakers—you will usually be given a T-shirt with the customer’s logo to wear on top. In some cases, however, we or our customer will provide you with the entire outfit—as you can see, it always depends on the job!
Why do we always meet 15 minutes before the start of the assignment?
We want everyone to start their assignment together as a team and introduce themselves to our client together. Our experience has shown that there are always minor delays. Fifteen minutes is therefore a good “buffer.”
Where can I use colorbirds?
Wherever people gather: at trade fairs, events, roadshows, exhibitions, openings, or pop-up stores. Whether reception, promotion, or catering services—our colorbirds adapt charmingly to any situation.
How much break time am I entitled to?
Our breaks comply with the legally prescribed break times:
0–6 hours of daily working time: no break
6–9 hours of daily working time: 30-minute break
9–10 hours of work per day: 45-minute break
Will I be compensated for my breaks?
Yes! We also compensate you for the breaks required by law. This also means that you do not have to deduct them from your total hours on your timesheet.
How do I record my hours?
All you have to do is clock in and out on site using the colorbirds app to record your actual working hours. Your project manager will approve your work data after the assignment, and it will be displayed accordingly in the app.
Will I be provided with meals during my assignment?
As a general rule, you are responsible for your own meals. Therefore, please NEVER help yourself to buffets, snacks, or similar items without an explicit request/invitation from your local contact person. After all, we are there to work, not to eat our customers’ food.
Everything related to billing
When will I receive my wages?
You will receive your salary on the 15th of the following month. If this falls on a weekend or public holiday, you will receive your salary on the next working day.
Please note that for assignments spanning multiple months, your payroll will be processed on a calendar month basis.
Example: You work at a trade fair from October 28 to November 2.
Your working days in October (October 28–31) will be paid with your October paycheck on November 15. The working days that fall in November (November 1–2) will be paid with your next paycheck for November on December 15. compensated.
Why haven't I received my salary?
Why do I save my pay slips?
Your pay slips may show income tax deductions. You can claim these back at the beginning of the following year by submitting your annual income tax return to the tax office and receive a refund.
Which income tax bracket do I use when calculating taxes for colorbirds?
If your work as a colorbird is your only source of income, you can specify income tax bracket 1 on your monthly statement.
If you have another job (that is not a mini-job) and are taxed under income tax bracket 1 there, you must be taxed under income tax bracket 6 at colorbirds. It is your responsibility to specify the correct income tax bracket on your monthly statement.
Overview of all income tax brackets (LSK):
LSK 1: People living alone
LSK 2: Single parents or separated parents who receive child benefit
LSK 3 and 5: Married couples (LSK 3 with lowest deductions / LSK 5 with highest deductions)
LSK 4: Married
SLK 6: Employees who are already accounted for by another employer via LSK 1
If you are a student and have a mini-job > earning €538, please check whether your mini-job employer pays you a flat rate or via an LSK. If you are paid a flat rate, you can work as a colorbird via LSK 1.
What is my “status”?
Your status describes your current occupation, e.g. whether you are a pupil, prospective student, student, or perhaps already employed.
What is a “proof of status”?
Proof of status is proof of your current employment. You can upload this to your personal profile under Documents. You will need:
- proof of enrollment as a pubil
- a certificate of enrollment as a student
- an employer statement as an employee
- A letter of intent to study as a school leaver if you plan to study
What should I do if my status changes?
As soon as your status changes, please inform us by email (buchhaltung@colorbirds.de) and send us your new proof of status. It is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary documents and personal information are correct and complete before your assignment.
Why am I only allowed to work at colorbirds for 70 days per calendar year?
By law, “short-term employment” is limited to 70 days per year. If you work more than 70 days, both the employer and the employee must pay social security contributions retroactively for the 70 days already worked.
The 70-day limit applies across all employers, i.e., if you have other short-term jobs, the days worked in all short-term jobs are added together. It is therefore very important that you keep track of your total working days and always inform us regularly about any other short-term employment, e.g., by sending an email to helpdesk@colorbirds.de.
Can I work for other employers on a short-term basis in addition to colorbirds?
Yes – however, it is your responsibility to keep track of the total number of days you have been employed on a short-term basis per year. You may not exceed 70 days in a calendar year, otherwise you may face penalties and additional social security contributions that you will have to pay. You must also note that you may only assign wage tax class 1 to a maximum of one employer per month for your payroll accounting. All other employers must be accounted for under wage tax class 6. This is also your responsibility!
I receive BAföG:
Please note that there are income limits that may result in a reduction in BaFöG. Please inquire for more information.
Template for declaration of intent to study
I am still covered by my parents' health insurance:
Please note that there are income limits that must be observed, and exceeding these limits will require you to take out your own health insurance. Please check with your health insurance provider.
Everything about the app
How can I change my details/data in Staffcloud?
There are two options for changing your personal data. For accounting-related data (IBAN, income tax bracket, address, etc.), please send an email to buchhaltung@colorbirds.de. You cannot change this information yourself.
You can change general information, such as clothing size or language skills, yourself in your Staffcloud profile via your web browser. Important:
This only works with the following browsers: Google Chrome/Firefox.
How do I clock in and out?
How can I tell if I have been assigned?
How do I cancel my participation in an assignment?
To unsubscribe from a project, go to “My invitations” and “View all” in the app. Use the filter icon in the upper right corner to display all “registered” projects. Click on the project >, select the days, and simply unsubscribe.