Dealing with German colleagues: how it works better

Working in a new cultural environment is always challenging at the beginning. Especially if you are the only one from your home country, differences in working methods and behavior can quickly lead to misunderstandings. If you work in Germany (or if you work somewhere else but have German colleagues), you may have noticed that German colleagues often have their own rules and idiosyncrasies that need to be understood - whether it's the essential "Mahlzeit" at lunchtime (similar to "Guten Appetit") or the fact that Germans tend to call meetings for every topic (and every little thing!). Here you can find out how to better interpret the behavior of German colleagues and which tips will help you to make your working day more pleasant.

Do you want a deeper insight into what makes German culture special? In our article, we have presented German culture in the Hofstede model -- and looked at the differences to Turkish, Indian, Italian, Polish and Croatian culture . 

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What is typical behavior for German colleagues?

German colleagues are often known for their punctuality, structure and professionalism: at least that's the stereotypical German - but you'll soon realize that this is not so far from reality. Let's start by explaining one of the biggest misconceptions: small talk is possible, but usually plays a smaller role than in other cultures. However, it should be made clear here: There are places and times when small talk is downright expected - for example at the coffee machine or in the canteen during lunch.
So if you want to summarize the German way of working in a nutshell, you can say that a lot of emphasis is placed on facts and results. Personal topics are largely ignored in working life, at least in the early days when people don't know each other very well. However, birthdays and anniversaries are often celebrated - here you can score points with a small gift (cake, snacks, etc.).

Another typical behavior is the clear separation between work and private life. During working hours, work is (usually) concentrated and meetings often seem strictly organized, which is usually due to the fact that Germans try to use their time as efficiently as possible and not waste the time of their colleagues and bosses, so to speak. It is also uncommon to take many long coffee breaks or even a break at all - what is accepted in your workplace is best observed with your direct colleagues. 

If you find this directness and clear separation between work and personal matters unfamiliar, it helps to ask open and factual questions to avoid misunderstandings. Because what is a typical small talk topic for an American can be too personal for a German - safe topics are always the weather, the journey and how the weekend was.

Also remember not to take it personally if colleagues don't invite you to joint activities or find excuses to decline your invitations: they have nothing against you personally, but a matter of separation between work and life (and it takes Germans a long time to make this step from work colleagues to friends compared to other cultures).

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Our tips for better interaction with your German colleagues

1. be fact-oriented, not emotional

In Germany, it is mainly arguments and facts that count: Emotional arguments are usually not perceived as serious reasons (unless, of course, it's about personal issues - your working hours, vacation or health). Spontaneous interjections at the wrong time can be perceived as unprofessional. So prepare well for meetings and present your ideas in a structured, fact-based and comprehensible way. Here's another tip: if necessary, have all the details ready so that you are prepared for critical questions. 

2. respect rules and structures

German work cultures are characterized by clear rules and hierarchies. It is important to respect these in order to be taken seriously and to rise within them. Try to stick to agreements and deliver on time - or ask for an extension early enough in advance. Punctuality is also valued as a sign of respect and professionalism. The concept of "German" punctuality also has some pitfalls: 10 minutes early is punctual, punctual is too late. So it's better to arrive 5 minutes early for a meeting to make small talk - because the (fact-based) meeting starts on time. 

3. plan meetings efficiently

Meetings are generally used to make decisions and solve problems. Therefore, make sure that you are well prepared and present the most important points briefly and concisely. Meetings are usually planned so briefly that you don't have time to research during the meeting and only one topic can be discussed. So if another problem comes to light during the meeting, don't expect it to be solved or even discussed in the same meeting (especially at large companies). Even if you feel that an issue should be discussed in person, it is best to arrange a separate meeting with just the people concerned.

4. small talk and social interactions

Even if small talk is not always a priority, it is worth paying attention to the little things. A quick chat about the weather or the weekend can help to build a basic relationship and improve the working atmosphere. Birthdays or team events are good opportunities to get involved and get to know your colleagues better.

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Further examples and tips for dealing with colleagues' behavior

• Holidays and traditions: Find out about typical national holidays and customs. This shows interest and respect for the culture. For example, Bavaria has the most public holidays with 12 (or 13 in Catholic communities) - there is a lot of history here. Your work colleagues will also be happy to let you in on their favorite traditions: from the Advent wreath, "Dinner For One" on New Year's Eve to the school cones on the first day of school - Germany has more curious traditions than you might expect!  
• Birthdays: People also work on birthdays, which is why they usually have a (very) small celebration with their colleagues. But watch out: In Germany, the birthday boy or girl brings the cake themselves! If, as in other cultures such as France, you expect your colleagues or friends to bring the cake, you will unfortunately be left without one in Germany. Not a fan of cake? Don't worry, pretzels, pastries or other snacks are also welcome. There is usually a small get-together, lots of birthday wishes and possibly small gifts - but after a while it's straight back to work. 
• Show initiative: Show that you can take responsibility. Not only in meetings or projects, but also by keeping the office/workshop clean or by emptying the dishwasher without being asked. It's the little things that will make you popular with your German colleagues! 
• Giving and receiving criticism: German colleagues are often direct when it comes to feedback. Don't take constructive criticism personally, but as an opportunity to develop yourself further. However, giving feedback properly is not that easy either, so if you feel personally attacked, you are welcome to give it back as criticism yourself. 

If you find yourself in a difficult situation, such as a conflict, our article Conducting conflict discussions can help you to act professionally and successfully.

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