REPORT-BUSINESS BEHAVIOR OF GERMANY

REPORT

 TITLE:
Germany labor environment
 CURSO:
English VII
 STUDENT:
Lina Bayona Ovalle
 CODE
14236019

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REPORT-BUSINESS BEHAVIOR OF GERMANY

TÉRMINOS DE REFERENCIA

I dedicate this report in the first place to GOD, because I recognize that the wisdom
comes from him and that every effort is always well rewarded and I also dedicate it to
my parents because they always supported me, my companions and the teacher our
tutor, for being a Good guide and answer our questions timely.

To all those people who want to learn how is the working environment in Germany

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REPORT-BUSINESS BEHAVIOR OF GERMANY

SUMMARY (ABSTRACT)

Germany is a country where business culture has a well-defined and strictly observed
hierarchy, with clear responsibilities and distinctions between roles and departments.
The rank and professional status in Germany is generally based on the achievement
and experience of an individual, therefore, academic qualifications and background are
important because they show experience and knowledge.

The main characteristic of the German business world is the ordnung (order).
Standards, codes, regulations dominate business relations. If you want to be successful
you have to mentalize and be prepared to fulfill them.

Taking all these aspects into account, it is necessary to apply all its rules and roles so
as not to have problems in the business world of Germany.

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INTRODUCTION

The following report focuses on the communication aspects of business practice and
describes the practical points that you should consider and use when making contact
with a German counterpart, in business and in the workplace, on the domestic front
and in our social life, we all benefit from more effective communication skills. Each
country has its own way of saying things. The important thing is what is behind the
words of the people. Communication between cultures begins with the basic
understanding that one size does not fit all. Simply because you practice certain habits
or cultural patterns does not mean that the rest of the world does too. Not recognizing
and adapting to this cultural diversity can mean the difference between success and
failure.

The main criterion for an effective communication is to understand the culture of the
country. Culture provides a framework for acceptable behavior and differences in ideals
must be recognized, valued and appreciated before real communication can take place.
Gestures and conversation styles may vary between your country and Germany. The
topics and gestures that you might consider normal and acceptable could be seen as
taboo here. Such errors in communication can have a serious impact on the success
of the negotiation process. While Germany is an extremely culturally conscious nation,
they also have expectations when it comes to others understanding their culture as an
independent country, so preparation is a must if you want to create a positive image
from the start of negotiations.

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DISCUSSION

The commercial label in Germany is similar to that of many countries, but there are
some special points that should be taken into account when trying to make a good
impression.

There are no strict rules when it comes to business etiquette in Germany. The work
culture varies from office to office. But in general, it is better to err on the side of formality
and then become more casual if that is the trend among your co-workers.

As following points to keep us professionally and educated in a workplace in Germany

we have:

1. BUSINESS MENTALITY

German companies are generally quite risk adverse, which makes the decision-making
process slow. Expect each detail of your proposal to be thoroughly examined.

In the same way, German companies do not respond well to ambiguity and uncertainty.
Business meetings follow a formal procedure. German managers work from precise
and detailed agendas, which are generally followed rigorously. The meetings always
look for results and decisive results, instead of providing a forum for an open and
general discussion.

In negotiations, Germans are usually direct and frank about what they want and expect
you to do the same.

Always present all the facts as thoroughly as possible; be well informed Try to avoid
the use of hard sales techniques, dazzling advertising, illustrations or memorable
slogans.

Similarly, the Germans will make presentations using many facts and figures. During a
meeting, store coffee and get ready to see thousands of figures, charts, tables, pie
charts, etc.

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2. REGARDS

The Germans shake hands to say hello. Keep in mind that you will have to shake hands
in a room before a meeting or conference; an ignorant wave will not work. If you have
to leave early, shake hands with everyone again, starting with the most advanced
person and working down.

The German handshake is firm and brief, transmitting confidence and reliability. Make
sure that yours is the same; a weak handshake will inspire insecurity.

Names are usually used only with family and close friends, so always use the
appropriate surnames and courtesies. It is also common for colleagues who have
worked together for years to maintain this level of formality.

3. PROFESSIONALISM

The titles, references, diplomas and certificates are taken seriously. A person with
academic credentials, good grades and professional skills demands a lot of respect. In
general, the logical and convincing reasons to advance in the cooperation of your
business to "make a good show" are preferred.

4. WORK ETHIC

Projects can initially advance at a slower pace, as many Germans tend to be thorough,
detail-oriented, risk-adverse and eager to produce good results. However, the
emphasis on punctuality ensures that most schedules and deadlines are met.

5. EQUITY AND LOYALTY

When a German business partner tells you that he is going to think about an offer, they
usually refer exactly to what they say. They do not like to be pressured after such an
open response, and will achieve more if it gives them time. And when trade negotiations
come to a standstill, many Germans want to reach a compromise in the interests of
both parties. Taking the full advantage of one side would seem fundamentally unfair.

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6. FASHION

In general, the work dress is conservative in Germany. This varies in different cities and
industries. Emerging companies, newsrooms and some environmental companies
sometimes use a more informal dress code. Other businesses generally adhere to a
conservative wardrobe, there are definitely no coaches or tennis shoes. The banking
cities like Frankfurt tend to be a bit more conservative than Berlin with its great creative
scene.

7. BODY LANGUAGE

Be sure to maintain eye contact when addressing your German colleagues, especially
during initial presentations.

Never put your hands in your pockets while you talk.

Do not point your index finger at your own head, it's an insult.

Use du and a person's first name for family, friends and children. In a business
environment, the educated way to start a conversation is the smartest choice.

Use Sie for strangers, very casual acquaintances, business partners, your bosses, your
elders and other people you treat with respect. Address these people with Herr (Mr) or
Frau (Ms), their title and the name of their family (for example, Frau Doktor Meier).

8. BUSINESS MEETINGS

The dress code in corporate businesses is formal, dark and conservative for both men
and women. The dress codes in the IT sector are more informal.

Punctuality in the German business culture is sacred. Arriving 15 minutes late will be
considered a very serious offense.

The best time to schedule a business appointment is between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm
or between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Avoid scheduling appointments on Friday afternoons,
as some offices will be closed at 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. on Fridays.

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CONCLUSION

In conclusion the German work environment are major challenges for expatriates.
Before entering the German business culture, many can expect certain clichés: rude
and arrogant or bureaucratic and boring. In fact, the business world of Germany is
much more attractive and for a person to survive in the German work environment, he
must strictly follow his schedule and provide the required work at the right time.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

 https://www.expatica.com/de/employment/employment-basics/understanding-german-
business-culture-100983/

 https://www.cyborlink.com/besite/germany.htm

 https://www.todaytranslations.com/consultancy-services/business-culture-and-
etiquette/doing-business-in-germany/

 https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/business/business-etiquette-in-germany

 https://www.internations.org/go/moving-to-germany/working/business-etiquette-and-
values-in-germany

 https://businessculture.org/western-europe/business-culture-in-germany/business-
communication-in-germany/

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GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS

 CULTURE: is a term that has many interrelated meanings.

 ANTECEDENTS: is a term that comes from a Latin word and serves to refer to
that which precedes (that appears before something else in time, order or place).
 REGULATIONS: are the set of procedures and rules adopted by institutions to
implement the responsibilities given in the legal framework.
 HIERARCHY: A group of people who head (because they are the most
important or relevant) a hierarchical organization.
 HABITS: Habitual practice of a person, animal or community.
 LABEL: Set of rules and formalities that are observed in certain official and
solemn public events.
 AMBIGUITY: Behavior, fact, word or expression that can be understood or
interpreted in different ways.
 RELIABILITY: Probability that a system, device or device fulfills a certain
function under certain conditions during a certain time.
 EQUITY: A quality that consists of giving each one what he deserves according
to his merits or conditions.
 ARROGANT: [person] That shows arrogance and treats others with contempt.

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