What are business meetings like in Germany?
Business Mentality Business meetings follow a formal procedure. German managers work from precise and detailed agendas, which are usually followed rigorously. Meetings always aim for decisive outcomes and results, rather than providing a forum for open and general discussion.
How do Germans conduct business meetings?
Germans usually discuss business after a few minutes of general discussion. Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including start and end times. Send company profiles, personal profiles, etc., to German colleagues before your visit to establish credibility. Arrive at meetings well prepared.
What should I wear to a business meeting in Germany?
Casual or sloppy clothes not appreciated. Business dress in Germany is understated, formal and conservative. Businessmen should wear dark-colored, conservative business suits, ties, and white shirts. Women also dress conservatively, in dark suits and white blouses or conservative dresses.
Is Thumbs up okay in Germany?
Body Language Germans may appear reserved and unfriendly until you get to know them better. Never put your hands in your pockets when talking with someone. “Thumbs up” gesture means “one” or is a sign of appreciation or agreement.
Do Germans use business cards?
Business cards are very personal in Germany. They represent an exchange of information that should be kept confidential. Give them out to people who you want to develop a relationship with and not to everyone you make eye contact with.
What are some German table manners?
When dining with Germans, be especially mindful of proper manners. They eat continentally—with the fork in the left hand (tines down) and knife in the right hand throughout. Do not pass the fork back and forth between hands. Don’t set down your knife to use the fork alone.
How do Germans set the table?
Americans and the British keep their left hand under the table or in their lap. Germans keep it on the table (but no elbows!), partly because they also keep the fork in their left hand most of the time.
What is a business meeting like in Germany?
Business meetings follow a formal procedure. German managers work from precise and detailed agendas, which are usually followed rigorously. Meetings always aim for decisive outcomes and results, rather than providing a forum for open and general discussion.
What is the meeting etiquette in Germany?
As with most European countries, meetings etiquette in Germany relies on professionalism, good business sense and formality. Bearing the above in mind, together with a positive attitude will ensure good results.
Who should enter the room first in German business meetings?
In formal German business meetings, it is customary for the highest-ranking person to enter the room first. However, in more informal business situations this is less important. Contacts are vital to a business’s success in Germany.
What are the basic rules of German business?
In German business, a person’s word and handshake are considered his/her bond. If a verbal agreement is made in a business meeting, it is generally considered binding. Business negotiations tend to be analytical and factual. A well-researched speech with lots of graphs, empirical arguments, and statistics is usually preferred.