Doing Business in Germany

A major international business hub, Germany's location at the heart of Europe means that expats doing business in the country have instant access to Western Europe as well as the emerging markets of Eastern Europe.

Each year, large numbers of established companies extend their operations to Germany and relocate staff there. Budding entrepreneurs also see it as a great place to start their own businesses.

Understanding the market and the nuances of German business etiquette will be key to an expat's success in their new surroundings.

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Fast facts

Business hours

Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm.

Business language

English is widely spoken and commonly used when it comes to business at the multinational level. Still, expats shouldn't automatically assume their associates can speak English. For those planning on doing business within smaller companies or municipal authorities, it is useful to have some knowledge of German.

Dress

Formal and conservative – dark suits and corporate wear for both men and women working in banking, business and finance. In more creative industries such as fashion, art and advertising, there is more freedom in what people can wear.

Gifts

Gift-giving is not a usual part of business culture in Germany. Small gifts such as flowers, wine or chocolate can be given if invited into a colleague’s home.

Gender equality

Germany has made great strides towards equality in the workplace, and ranks highly internationally in this regard.

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Business culture in Germany

The business culture in Germany tends to be quite conservative. Expats will need to understand and incorporate elements of German business culture into their practices if they wish to be successful and make a good impression in the local workplace. 

Efficiency

Business culture in Germany is formal and efficiency in the workplace is paramount. Time is money – so being punctual is important. Once the meeting begins, Germans get straight down to business and there's little room for small talk.

Formality

Business meetings in Germany are formal affairs and first names are rarely used in business relationships. Punctuality and appearance are important, so expats should dress well and arrive at meetings fully prepared and on time. It's best to avoid humour, especially at first, as it can be misconstrued. One should expect to be asked detailed questions and have facts and figures on hand to back up what is being presented.

Language 

Although most Germans speak English well, many prefer to speak their own language when it comes to business negotiations. Expats who don't speak German should consider hiring a translator for important meetings. 

Greetings

Handshakes are the customary greeting in professional and social contexts. Business contacts must be addressed by their surname, which is to be preceded by Herr for men and Frau for women. First names are only used when invited to do so by a senior person, usually once some level of mutual respect has been established.

Networking

Expats will find that Germans are private and maintain a strict separation between their work and home life, so it will take some time to forge more personal relationships with colleagues. At lunch meetings, expats should allow the host to start business discussions and shouldn't be surprised if alcohol is served.

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Dos and don’ts of business in Germany

• Do arrive well prepared for meetings and ready to answer questions.

• Don't arrive late to meetings or job interviews. Punctuality is important.

• Do dress formally in the workplace. Dark suits and corporate wear are safe options.

• Don't assume everyone speaks English. Learn some German before embarking on a business venture or consider using an interpreter for important meetings.

• Do maintain eye contact when addressing German colleagues, especially during initial introductions.

• Don't try to integrate humour into the business environment.