German companies are so desperate to find a qualified personnel that they are ready to give them longer holidays, shorter and more flexible working hours and other perks, Reuters reports. And this is taking into account that workers in this country already works less than in the rest of developed world.

Last year state-owned railroad operator Deutsche Bahn, which is the largest employer in the country, offered its workers a choice between six additional days of holidays, increase in wages by 2,6% and reduction in working week by one hour. Out of 137000 employees 58% chose additional holidays, 40% rise in payment and only 2% reduction in working hours.

Surprisingly high economic growth together with deficit of people of working age resulted in rising concerns among German employers. More than a half of companies in the country have difficulties with hiring. While average number in the world is 45%. The most difficult to fill for German employers are trade, engineering and tech vacancies.

Number of vacancies in German economy grew by 128000 in 2017 and reached 1,18 million in fourth quarter.

Deutsche Bahn needs to hire 19000 workers this year to substitute for retiring baby boomers.