Business etiquette in Germany: how to prove yourself at a business meeting

All over the world, business etiquette includes following certain rules of conduct, style of dressing, and manner of communication. However, business etiquette varies from country to country, just as the culture and traditions of each nation are different.

Today, we are going to look into German business etiquette and give you some tips on how to use them during networking meetings with the Germans.

Be straightforward in communication

Germans prefer to have only substantive conversations at work. Business negotiations run very intensively, without digressions; after short greetings and exchanging remarks, they get straight to the point.

In order to stick to the topic of the meeting, develop a thorough plan in advance that you are going to stick to. Write down all the necessary questions, focus on the main things and avoid ambiguity in your statements.

Pay attention to gestures

In Germany shaking hands is customary for both men and women, but other touches during the workday are inappropriate. Remember to keep eye contact.

Looking into each other’s eyes during a meeting is regarded as totally normal in Germany, as it signals your interest and attentiveness.

It is also worthwhile to keep your distance during the conversation, as Germans used to be very protective of their personal space.

Avoid tardiness

It is no secret that Germans are very punctual. That is why it is vital to be on time for every meeting, even though it is a business lunch.

Germans expect all participants to come on time and be well-prepared. If someone is unable to be present, it is obligatory to notify everyone in advance.

When visiting major cities like Berlin, Dresden or Munich, it is easy to get lost, miss the right bus and as a result be late for a meeting.

To avoid such mishaps, it is better to use bus charters in Munich and other major cities during business trips.

Thus, using the coach hire in Munich can not only save time and money on transportation, but ensure that you have a comfortable and safe travel as well as all of your employees.

Respect the communication hierarchy

In this country there is a scrupulous attitude to the observance of the chain of command. Business hierarchy plays a significant role.

If, for example, it is customary in the company to address the chief through the secretary, then the subordinate can be denied a personal meeting with the head.

For this reason, when planning business meetings, the best solution would be to send an employee of equal rank to his German colleague for negotiations.

Stick to a conservative style of dress

As for the style of dressing, the main rule here is to stick to simplicity and conservatism. Germans usually dress for official meetings.

For men it’s preferable to wear a dark suit, a solid light-colored shirt, while for women it is a skirt or pants set and closed shoes. Avoid an overabundance of accessories and bright makeup.

In order to sum everything up, the most essential rule in any negotiation and business meeting is to be polite.

In case you are attentive and observe the rules of German etiquette, this way you won’t have any problems adapting to this country.

We do hope that these tips can help you get a good deal and maintain great relationships with your German partners.