With an advanced and developed economy, Germany is a popular business destination. Here are some common German business travel tips that you need to take care of when dealing with your German business mates.
It is considered nothing less than a sin to be late according to the arranged time. Your first impression could be completely spoiled if you are 5 to 10 minutes late for meeting someone. So, make sure to arrive early when you need to attend a meeting.
German business attire is simple and often dark in colour for both males and females. Any flashy accessories or makeup is kept limited as they prefer to appear decent.
Not only in their clothes, but Germans are conservative in their conversations too. When meeting business colleagues, expect only business related information being talked about as they don’t like to share their personal lives over formal meetings.
Germans believe in a culture of – “say what you want to say” which means they prefer to be direct and frank when they communicate their ideas or expectations to someone. Also, they prefer others to be straightforward in their experssions.
German people tend to plan things in advance and can get easily annoyed for any changes or cancellations. So, if you have fixed a meeting with your German business mates, then ensure that there are no alterations.
Too much smiling, patting on shoulders or other gestures of affection are avoided in the German business culture. Such emotions are reserved for family and friends.
Handshakes are the most common gesture to greet someone, however, always keep it firm and brief. Also, whenever you leave, make sure to handshake with everyone present there. Remember that handshaking should start with the highest rank official and end with the lowest rank official.
Let us know if you have experience of German business travel. We would love to hear from you. Do consider a low-cost international romaing solution for your smartphone to ensure that you do not pay a huge bill for calling home when in Germany.
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