Life and society

Berlin (dpa) – What do you do if a three-year-old pulls his beard and threatens to expose the booked Santa Claus? What if the jute sack tears or the Golden Book is left with another family?

Even Santas can experience mishaps. In a two-hour workshop in Berlin, experienced Santa Clauses give new colleagues crucial tips on how to give presents as accident-free as possible, depending on their needs and the number of inquiries. This is organized by Santa Claus2go, a Santa Claus placement platform.

“Good preparation is everything,” says Hansjörg Rodewald, who has been working as Santa Claus for almost 30 years. “You have to know all the names in the family, even the cat’s first name. The more you know, the better,” says Rodewald, who always has spare bags and a copy of the book with him. It is also important to know where the gifts are and there must also be enough light, otherwise it would be impossible to read from the Golden Book, which contains important information about the children.

The 58-year-old is part of Santa Claus2go’s permanent staff. Founder Frederik Tholey, a lawyer by profession, sits in his official attire in a magnificent, gold-decorated velvet armchair in a rented conference room, with Rodewald next to him.

Shortage of staff also at Santa Claus

In front of them: a colorful mix of men, from those in their late thirties to retired police officers and pensioners. They all listen carefully as Tholey explains how they can register on the website, narrow down their area of ​​operation and set the price. He recommends around 50 to 60 euros per visit for beginners. Hundreds of euros can come together in one evening.

The biggest challenge for Tholey and his business partner Tobias Groß is finding staff. There is also a shortage of skilled workers in the Christmas industry. Groß recently went to canteens again to look for candidates. “It’s very difficult,” he says. Other placement agencies are also looking for actors. “I speak to women who appear angelic directly on the street or ask fellow actors,” says Angela Jehring, herself an actress and owner of the Engel agency in Berlin.

The candidates can show off their talent at the workshop in Berlin-Neukölln. Equipped with costumes, bells, beards and make-up, they pose for a photo and video shoot. Parents should be able to get an impression of them later on the website. After all, first impressions count, even with Santa Claus.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:231129-99-113559/3