Germans are motivated by autonomy—having the latitude to apply professional judgment in how they fulfill their responsibilities. Once objectives and scope are clear, micromanagement demotivates by implying distrust. Germans expect to be trusted to figure out how to accomplish goals.
When working with German colleagues, provide clear objectives and context, then step back. Germans want to know what they need to achieve without being told exactly how to achieve it. Trust their expertise and judgment in execution. Check in on progress rather than supervising each step.
This autonomy operates within defined scope—Germans want to know boundaries of their authority—but within that scope, they expect professional latitude. The motivating message is: here’s what we need, here’s why it matters, I trust you to figure out how to deliver it well. Germany Motivation
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