10 Things You Didn't Know about the German Business Culture

Many foreign enterprisers are interested in opening a business in Germany due to the friendly business environment and attractive incentives granted by the Government. Most of the times difficulties can appear because of the differences in the investors’ and the German business culture. Below you will find 10 of the most important things about the German business etiquette.

The following video was created by our experts in company formation in Germany and represents a summary of these ten interesting things:

1.Planning a business meeting

When doing business in Germany you must plan your meeting a few weeks before. You can do that by making a phone call or sending an e-mail.

2.First contact

The first contact with a German business partner should stop at handshakes.

3.Addressing formulas

German citizens are quite rigorous when it comes to personal titles, especially in business meetings. When meetings a German partner for the first time it is very important to try and call them by their title followed by the full name.

4.Punctuality

In German companies punctuality is very important. When meeting a German partner for the first time, punctuality is of key importance.

5.Dressing code

When going into a business meeting in Germany, you should wear a formal attire. Men usually wear suits, while women wear conservative dresses.

6.Business communication

Communication in business meetings in Germany should be direct. It is not part of the German business culture to discuss other topics in meetings.

7.E-mail etiquette in Germany

E-mail is the most familiar communication means in German companies, which is why it is very important to use it in most cases when dealing with a business partner outside their office.

8.Hierarchy

The Germans put a great price on respect, which is why it is also very important to respect the hierarchy when doing business with a German company. You should keep in mind to address the highest rank in the management chain.

9.Reliability

Consistency and reliability are some of the most important traits in the German business culture. Make sure you avoid any uncertainty when expressing.

10.Follow-up e-mail

It is very important to know that in the German business culture sending an e-mail after a meeting is considered a sign of respect.

If you are interested in setting up a company in Germany and need details about the registration steps you can contact our specialists in company formation in Germany.