Freepost - International Communication - Germany

International communication is complex in nature, and something that must be carefully considered when conducting business transaction. Different language is not the only barrier to communication, as one would think. Rather, consideration must be put into interpretation of action, high versus low context communication, and other various aspect of the other group's culture. Even when talking to cultures that we think would be at least somewhat similar to ours, there still remain differences that could make or break a business transaction. Consider Germany, for example.

After reviewing the website regarding the business and communications world in Europe, it’s easy to note the major differences found in the United States. Overall, Germany engages in a more formal and structured means of business communication. German business culture not only follows a strict hierarchy, but last names and other appropriate titles are usually used when referring to colleagues. This type of business communication obviously works for the culture in Germany, but it should be noted that while the United States often shows variability in their lines of business communication, we are often successful also. Depending on the situation and context at hand, business communication and procedures in the United States show a much wider range of variability.

In Germany while business is being conducted, all aspects and focus are on business. When people are critical or offer suggestions to a problem or idea no offense is taken as a personal attack on another person. While working in the U.S. people have a tendency to bring a more personal feel to the work place, and this allows for people to take offense in what others have to say about their work. We also tend to allow personal politics to play a factor in the way that we conduct business. While in Germany business and private life are strictly separated to the point where a request should be made before a person contacts someone else about business after the workday has ended.

The difference in cultures between Germany and the United States is now apparent after doing research. In any situations we may come across in the future, it would be wise of us to research the other group's culture that we are negotiating with. It would go a long way in helping out the transaction.

Source: http://www.communicaid.com/germany-business-culture.asp