GERMANY

Cross Culture Communication

Germany

Acceptable Public Behavior

If you don’t speak German, don’t address Germans in English because many will feel offended.

They are not expected to be greeted by strangers. Firm, handshakes when you greet or leave them are standard in business and social settings.

In general, Germans like third-party introductions whenever possible.

GermanyBusiness Attire

Dress in corporate business formal, dark and conservative suits for men and women. Khakis are very inappropriate.

Germans tend to dress in more muted colors and “dress up” just to talk the dog or go shopping.

An informal invitation means wear tastefully coordinated clothes and not jeans and a T-shirt

Germany

Conversations and Networking

First names are for family members, or close friends or colleagues. “Small talk” with strangers does not have a significant social function.

Be prepared to introduce yourself first.

The concept of “mingling” is not well known in Germany.

GermanyMeetings, Presentations, and Negotiation Tactics

Bring plenty of business cards.

Germans will arrive well prepared and expect the same from you.

Expect their business communication to be very agenda-based.

Germans tend to be analytical thinkers, and require a lot of facts and examples.

Contracts are final after signing.

GermanyDinner Etiquette

Don’t put your left hand in your lap when you eat. Do not whine about the food. Try everything served to you.

Make sure you say “das schmeck”-it tastes good. Eat with your fork in your left and your knife in your right.

To get the attention of the waiter say, “Herr Ober!” Don’t expect ice to come with your drink, you have to ask. There are no free re-fills on drinks.

Germany

Danke schön & bis Morgen