In the workplace the Germans separate between the professional amd the personal. Work colleagues can disagree, even argue, about the substance of an issue. This, however, does not have a negative effect on their working relationship. Examples
Controversial Topics
Germans are intelligent and well-informed. They seek out topics which lead to lively debate. And since this means a difference of opinions, Germans often choose topics considered to be controversial. Examples
Unsolicited Advice
Germans give unsolicited advice. Usually it is in the form of criticism. In most cases the criticism is accurate and helpful. Some Germans simply want to show that they know better. Most Germans, however, just want to be helpful. Examples
Performance
Germans separate the personal from the professional. Feedback, both formal and informal, addresses performance only. It is given in a neutral and unemotional way. Feedback, whether positive or negative, is not meant personally. Examples
Intelligence
For Germans an intelligent product goes beyond its purpose as a tool or instrument. An intelligent product thinks with, anticipates how it is put to work, is more than just the extension of its user. Examples
Efficiency
Germans have experienced times of acute shortage. These have left their stamp on the German product philosophy. Efficiency is a key product characteristic. Efficient in its development, manufacturing, and use. Examples
Past vs. Future
Germans believe that a persuasive plan to moving forward depends on knowing your starting point. They expect an explanation of the path from the past to the current situation. Persuasive in the German business context is explaining the history of the starting point. Examples
Strategy Formulation
Germans believe that important decisions should be reached via consensus. Ideally within the entire team, but at least among its key members. Once made, those decisions are best implemented when communicated, understood, and accepted by the broader organization. Examples
System vs. Particular
Germans are systematic in their thinking. They believe that complexity is understood only by grasping how its component parts interact and interrelate. Explaining complexity is persuasive in Germany. Examples
Escalation
Germans view conflicts as fundamentally negative. Escalation should be an option of last resort. And since effective leadership is expected to anticipate conflicts, those which have “become public” are a sign of leadership failure. Examples