Americans approach sensitive work topics cautiously. Euphemisms communicate uncomfortable messages. Ambiguity can be helpful. Indirect communication is considered to be both polite and effective. Examples
Work vs. Person
Americans connect the professional with the personal. Statements made about a proposal, a concept, or work results are by definition statements about that person’s competence, experience, and skills. Examples
Small Talk
Small talk in the USA gets communication going. Small talk allows people to get a sense for the overall atmosphere. Americans seldom jump directly into serioius business subject matter. Examples
Controversial Topics
Americans avoid any tension which could damage a personal or working relationship. They seek out commonalities, look for reasons to connect, not separate. It’s difficult to argue about the weather. Examples
Unsolicited Advice
Americans seldom give colleagues unsolicited advice. Even then, depending on how sensitive the topic is, they will communicate their advice in carefully worded language. 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
Reliability
Germans expect a product to never break down. Not only the German engineer thinks this, but also the German consumer. A reliable product, like a reliable person, always delivers on its promise. Examples
Durability
Germans prefer long lasting products. For which they will pay a higher price. Durable products reduce replacement cost. Durability is a sign of craftsmanship, quality, tradition and continuity. Durable products “stand the test of time.” Examples