Business Etiquette

Business Etiquette

Germans are very businesslike while at work and this shows in their expectations for punctuality, formal manners and attention to detail. It is common to answer the telephone by stating your last name, rather than saying 'hello'. People should be addressed by their titles (such as Herr Doktor) and last name, until they indicate otherwise.

Many businesspeople in Berlin speak English but may still prefer to conduct business in German. Business cards are very commonly used. Documentation will often need to be translated. It is best for visitors to err on the conservative side of dress, certainly in the first instance, though in general Berlin is an extremely relaxed city and this normally extends to office etiquette.

Standard business hours are typically Monday to Friday 0800/0900-1600/1700, although, contrary to what many visitors expect, these hours can be less, as Germans have some of the shortest working hours in Western Europe. Meetings are usually between 1100 and 1300 or 1500 and 1700, although late afternoon appointments (other than on Friday) are not unusual. Business lunches are common (the person making the offer is expected to pay) but breakfast meetings are rare. Socialising with work colleagues is very common, and indeed, usually expected.