Born in Berlin, Schlicke trained in precision mechanics at a craft school, and then found work in the industry, moving across the country until he ended up in Frankfurt.
In 1905, he was additionally elected as general secretary of the International Metalworkers' Federation, which moved its office to Stuttgart, where he was working.
[1][2] Schlicke was criticised for opposing industrial action during World War I, and stood down as president of the DMV in 1919.
During this period, the Works Council Act was passed, leading to left-wing demonstrations which were forcibly suppressed.
[1][2] Early in 1921, Schlicke was appointed as the full-time director of the Berlin office of the International Labour Organization.