German Approach
Germans expect room to interpret decisions when implementing them. In certain situations Germans will deviate considerably from a decision which they, as subject matter experts, judge to be counterproductive to the mission. Patterns
American Approach
Decisions which cannot work or would damage overall efforts are communicated up the chain of command by those working on the tactical level. There is very low tolerance for modifying decisions without authorization from next-level management. Patterns
American View
Americans in positions of authority, indeed, do not tolerate creative implementation deviating too far from the original intent of a decision. They note with astonishment to what degree German team members modify or “revisit” their decisions. In some instances this can border on insubordination.
American team members are surprised to hear from their German team leads that they should interpret more actively the tasks assigned to them. They wonder why the team lead simply doesn‘t make that task more clear. And they are equally surprised by how freely their German colleagues interpret management decisions.
German View
German team members quite often find American decisions too rigid. They feel degraded to mere implementers, following orders, forbidden to apply their education, training and experience to ever changing parameters „on the ground.“
German leads are surprised when their American team members do not take the initiative to interpret and implement the tasks assigned to them. They appear to want those tasks to be spelled out in detail first before implementing. German team leads can get the impression that Americans are not sufficiently self-managing.
Advice to Germans
Expect your American team members to ask for approval before they diverge from your decisions or strategy. They will be less willing than their German colleagues to act independently of you on important matters.
This is not a sign that they cannot self-manage, but of respect for your authority and judgement. At the same time, encourage them to make necessary adjustments without your approval.
If you are a German with an Americn team lead be very careful about making adjustments or changes to decisions without first getting a sign-off.
Your American lead sees herself as ultimately responsible for the results of your work. Check with her first, discuss your recommendation, get permission. If your advice is good, you will be given more freedom to act independently.
Advice to Americans
Your German team members will consult you far less frequently during implementation. And they will make adjustmens, even major deviations, without getting your approval.
This is not a challenge to your authority. Discuss with your team when they need your input before deviating from your decisions or from the overall tactical plan.
If you report to a German lead, and you see the need to immediately adjust your tactical plan, do so without asking your lead for approval. Maintain forward movement. If the decision itself requires reassessment, first formulate your advice, then inform your lead of the options.