Moneyball (2011). The management team, led by Billy Beane, holds frequent meetings to review player statistics, discuss strategies, and follow up on recruitment and trades. The film’s structure is built around ongoing check-ins and data-driven updates, emphasizing the importance of regular follow-up to achieve team goals.
Ostpolitik and Inter-German Agreements (1970s)
During the era of Ostpolitik, several treaties and agreements were signed between West Germany and East Germany, as well as with other Eastern Bloc countries. These agreements, such as the Basic Treaty (1972), focused on normalization and were executed with the expectation that both parties would fulfill their commitments without constant follow-up, in line with the German value of reliability in agreements.
Wilhelm Meister
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship frequently touches on the importance of trust, personal responsibility, and the expectation that promises and agreements are to be fulfilled without external enforcement. Characters are judged by their reliability and ability to deliver on commitments.
Effi Briest
In Theodor Fontane Effi Briest the rigid adherence to social contracts and the consequences of breaking them are central. While not about business, the story reflects the broader German cultural expectation that agreements-whether social or professional-are binding and not subject to renegotiation or casual follow-up.
“touch base”
To briefly make or renew contact with someone, often to check on the status of an agreement or project. Example: “I just wanted to touch base and make sure you hadn’t changed your mind about seeing me.”
“Follow up on”
To check in or take action after an initial agreement or meeting, ensuring continuity and accountability.
Example: “Let’s follow up on this discussion in our next meeting.”
“On the same page”
To have a shared understanding or agreement, often maintained through regular communication and updates. Example: “Let’s all communicate constantly so we are on the same page.”
“Circle back”
To return to a topic or check in again at a later time, keeping everyone aligned and informed.
Telegraph (1840s onward)
The invention and rapid adoption of the electric telegraph by Samuel Morse in 1844 revolutionized how Americans communicated. For the first time, it was possible to send instant updates and confirmations across great distances, enabling businesses, government, and individuals to maintain real-time status checks and coordinate actions efficiently. This technological leap fostered a culture of frequent follow-up and immediate communication, laying the groundwork for the American expectation of regular updates and ongoing alignment in agreements.
migration and survival
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. In this story of migration and survival, the Joad family’s journey is marked by constant communication, checking in with each other, and following up on leads for work and shelter. Their progress depends on regular updates and ongoing discussions, reflecting the American value of staying informed and aligned as circumstances change.