5 don’ts in business communication with Germans
I moved to Germany when I was 19. As a young foreigner I did almost all mistakes in business communication possible. Looking to it from the perspective of a 36 years old CEO that had built a company with about 100 employees working mostly with German customers, let me highlight 5 most typical mistakes I encountered.
- Don’t be too informal
Germans appreciate a professional approach to business. Too many jokes, ignoring formal rules of email communication, being not punctual, getting too friendly too fast is not what will bring you success.
2. Don’t shortcut
Don’t expect Germans to take decisions fast. Don’t get to the next step definition before the current situation is not discussed in detail. Have a plan and describe it in a written form.
3. Don’t use German language unless it is at the very high level
Germans in the business field speak normally English at the very high level. Therefore, if you speak English at the high level and German at the intermediate level, better stick to English to ensure comfort for both parties. Use other occasions to show respect to German culture.
4. Don’t let room for interpretation about the next steps
German culture is a very direct culture used to leave not too much room for personal interpretation in business communication. So be direct, clear and polite. Follow-ups in written form are highly appreciated as well.
5. Don’t touch political or historical topics in a small talk
Germans treat politics and history seriously, so it is not something for warming-up before a business discussion.
The last but not the least, don’t forget that business communication is mostly a universal thing. Respect, win-win and trustworthiness are your best friends as always.
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