German Approach
Germans are direct. They say what they mean. And they mean what they say. Germans don’t use euphemisms to soften a message. They use unambiguous language. For Germans directness is efficient, effective, honest, transparent. Examples
American Approach
Americans approach sensitive work topics cautiously. Euphemisms communicate uncomfortable messages. Ambiguity can be helpful. For Americans indirect communication is considered to be both polite and effective. Examples
American View
Germans can come across as impatient, impolite, hard. Americans can quickly feel uncomfortable, thus hindering more than helping communication. In some cases, Americans will avoid contact with those Germans (mis)perceived for their particularly direct communication.
German View
For German ears Americans seem to wrap their messages in “wads of cotton”. As non-native speakers it is difficult and time-consuming to interpret carefully worded statements. And since euphemisms are context-related, they must be decoded.
Advice to Germans
Pay close attention to the differences between how you as a German and how the Americans communicate. Use a softer vocabulary. Approach important topics a bit more indirectly.
The most important points do not have to be addressed immediately. Establish a little rapport with the other person, even if it is just a few sentences.
Clarity can be communicated via nuance, also. Americans pay particular attention to nuances. And remember to remind the Americans every now and then that English is not your native tongue. That will be a reminder to them that if your style of communication bothers them that it is cultural, not personal.
Advice to Americans
Germans are communicating with you in what for them is a foreign language. Be thankful that no one has asked you to communicate in a foreign language. For addressing complex and sensitive topics in a nuanced way is very difficult for any non-native speaker.
So, expect German directness. It has great strengths. Germans will say what they mean, and mean what they say. You know where they stand. For your part, be frank. Get to the point more quickly.
Germans will not take it personally. And remember, if you don‘t understand something, or if you sense that Germans don‘t understand you, address it openly. Rephrase in other words what each party has said.