“Shoot from the hip.” To act or speak quickly without much preparation. While spontaneity and directness are valued in American culture, this approach can also come across as impulsive or risky.
figures of speech
“Let’s table it”
“Let’s table it.” To postpone the discussion of an issue. This tactic is often used to avoid deadlock and return later with more clarity or leverage – a hallmark of American flexibility in negotiation.
“Call the shots”
“Call the shots.” To be in charge and make the decisions. This expression highlights the emphasis on authority and decision-making power in American negotiation dynamics.
“Call a child by its name”
Man muss das Kind beim Namen nennen. Literally to call a child by its name. Or, you have to call a spade a spade. Directness is highly valued in German negotiation culture. Unclear wording and vague statements are considered unprofessional. Instead, people expect you to clearly identify problems.
“Throw in the towel”
“Throw in the towel.” To admit defeat or give up. It signifies a clear decision to exit a negotiation or concede – a pragmatic, straightforward approach typical in American negotiations.
“Run it up the flagpole”
“Run it up the flagpole.” To test an idea to see if it gains support. This iterative, informal testing of positions reflects a flexible, exploratory approach common in American business culture, often when in negotations.
“Da müssen wir erst drüber nachdenken”
Da müssen wir erst drüber nachdenken. We’ll have to think about that first. Quick decisions are viewed with skepticism in Germany. It is customary for negotiating partners to request time for reflection before making a binding decision.
Fakten auf den Tisch legen
Fakten auf den Tisch legen. Laying the facts on the table. This expression means that you should disclose all relevant information and focus on factual arguments. It is about not playing tactical games, but presenting the facts clearly and concisely.
Lowball offer
Lowball offer. A deliberately low offer intended to create room for negotiation. This strategy is common in American bargaining, signaling a competitive, results-oriented mindset.
Play hardball
Play hardball. To be aggressive or tough in a negotiation. This approach involves leveraging power or applying pressure to achieve desired outcomes, demonstrating assertiveness in American business culture.