Substance Over Display

Germans are motivated by actual achievement rather than how achievement appears. Genuine quality, real results, and substantive contribution matter more than impressive presentation, elaborate recognition, or performed enthusiasm. Authenticity matters; display without substance falls flat.

When working with German colleagues, focus on concrete challenges and real standards. Recognize genuine achievement substantively rather than celebrating everything. Germans are skeptical of motivational approaches that manufacture enthusiasm or inflate recognition. Praise reserved for actual excellence motivates; praise distributed routinely for ordinary work devalues recognition.

Substantive problems worth solving motivate more than easy wins with elaborate celebration. Respect that Germans value doing work that matters over appearing to do impressive work.

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