about german business culture

1.Business practices

• First names are generally only used with family and close friends and colleagues. Therefore, always use last names and appropriate titles. You will often find that colleagues who have worked together for years still maintain this level of formality.
• Business meetings follow a formal procedure. German managers work from precise and detailed agendas, which are usually followed rigorously; moreover, meetings always aim for decisive outcomes and results, rather than providing a forum for open and general discussion.
• German business protocol requires that colleagues should be greeted with a firm, but brief, handshake on both arrival and departure.
• In German business dealings, it is important to provide solid facts and examples to back up proposals, given the German preference for analytical thinking and rational explanations.

2.Business Etiquette (Do¡¯s and Don¡¯ts)

• DO take plenty of business cards with you and ensure they include full details of your background, qualifications, and titles.
• DO maintain direct eye-contact when addressing German colleagues, especially during initial introductions.
• DO use the formal version of you (¡°Sie¡±), unless someone specifically invites you to use the informal ¡°Du¡± form. It is usually best to let your German counterpart take the initiative of proposing the informal form of address (this implies readiness to develop a personal relationship).
• DON¡¯T discuss personal matters during business negotiations, as this is considered to deviate from the task at hand.
• DON¡¯T attempt to continue negotiations after a contract has been signed. Your German colleagues may view this with suspicion, which could lead to an unsuccessful business agreement.
• DON¡¯T use exaggerated or indirect communication styles during business meetings with you German counterparts. It creates an impression of insincerity and dishonesty.