Germans don’t assume people naturally know how to do things properly. Process competence develops through extended, structured training that follows defined stages. The apprenticeship model is the clearest example: years of supervised learning, progressing through curricula that sequence skills appropriately, culminating in examination.
But the pattern extends everywhere. Children learn tasks in developmental sequence. Students progress through educational stages. Professionals earn certifications through prescribed training.
Process mastery requires investment; shortcuts produce incompetence. When working in German contexts, expect that your process competence may need to be demonstrated through evidence of systematic preparation. Quick studies and fast learners matter less than thoroughness of training. Be patient with development processes—they exist because proper preparation actually matters.
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