KNOWLEDGE BASE German Business Culture

EXPANSION GUIDE - GERMAN BUSINESS CULTURE

 

Influenced by national culture, business culture varies from country to country. And by paying attention to the subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the business culture of your own country and Germany, you will increase your chances for success. Don’t rely on your German business contacts simply accepting that the people in your country “just do it that way”. You may inadvertently offend them and hurt your business prospects from the start. Instead, understand and embrace the business culture you are entering. 

Use the Business Culture In Germany section for information on the following: 

Familiarize yourself with the factors that shape the national culture of Germany, which also affect the business culture
Learn the rules for business and social etiquette
Understand how hierarchy and seniority are generally viewed in Germany and compare it to your own country's approach
Know how negotiations are typically handled by Germans and determine where there are differences with your country's approach. Evaluate how your negitiating style will need to be modified
Understand what binds a contract in Germany and have any contract reviewed under German law
German is the language of business in Germany, though you may be able to use English. If you are not proficient in German, determine how you will overcome this gap in advance of any meetings you attend
Be aware of normal business and shopping hours, which are spelled out in the Business Culture In Germany section

 

Use the Demographics For Women In Germany to:

Get an overview of the role and status of women in Germany

 

Globig Knowledge Base

Learn more about German demographics and culture in this related Globig Knowledge Base section.

Business Culture In Germany

Demographics For Women In Germany

 

Globig Resources

Use these related resources if you'd like to do some additional research on your own.

National Culture books by  Geert Hofstede, Gert Jan Hofstede, and Michael Minkov 

World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023

World Values Survey

 

KNOWLEDGE BASE German Business Culture