How do notice periods work if you quit a job in Germany before starting or during the probation period?

In Germany, if you resign from a job before you even start or during your probation period (Probezeit), the notice periods outlined in your employment contract still apply. It's really important to read your contract carefully and reach out to the human resources department to understand your specific obligations. Typically, notice periods are much shorter during the Probezeit than they are after you've passed it.