German leader-led relationships rest on mutual respect. Leaders respect followers as capable adults with dignity. Followers respect leaders’ legitimate authority and role.
This respect is structural, not optional warmth. When you lead Germans, treat team members respectfully—as intelligent people capable of understanding, contributing, and handling responsibility. Do not demean or dismiss. Value what they bring.
They in turn will respect your role and engage with your leadership seriously. Disrespectful leadership violates German expectations about how leaders should relate to those they lead. Maintain the dignity of the relationship.
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