Directness
Germans are direct. They say what they mean and mean what they say. Germans do not use euphemisms to soften a message. Nor do they „beat around the bush.” For Germans direct communication is honest, transparent, efficient. It reduces the risk that people will misunderstand each other.
Professional
Germans separate the professional from the personal. Business colleagues can disagree, even argue, about the substance of an issue without it having a negative affect on their working relationship. Critical thinking, stating different opinions in a straightforward manner, debating the strengths and weaknesses of a given point, are in Germany signs of professionalism and of respect for the other person.
Small Talk
In the German business context small talk is small, meaning short in duration. The Germans prefer to transition quickly to issues of substance, from small talk to big talk. They see little value in talking about the weather, sports or what they did in their most recent vacation.
Controversial Issues
When Germans engage in discussions outside of the business context they seek out topics which lead to lively discussions. Germans are intelligent and well-informed. They enjoy intellectual give and take. And since this means a difference of opinions, Germans purposely choose controversial topics.
Unsolicited Advice
Germans often give unsolicited advice, which almost always comes in the form of criticism. In most cases the statement is accurate and the advice helpful. In some cases, however, individual Germans simply want to show that they know better. But in the majority of situations, Germans give unsolicited advice because they sincerely want to be helpful.
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