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Business Etiquette
Business hours are Monday to Friday 0900-1800 and, although rarely, Saturday 0900-1400. Some offices close early on Fridays, at 1400. Punctuality is absolutely essential in Germany and although Bavarians may appear more relaxed than their northern counterparts, they will regard lateness as rude and incompetent. A smart appearance is also important and it is wise for business travellers to enquire as to the dress code if socialising with business contacts outside work.
The usual greeting in both business and social settings is a firm handshake. Business contacts should be addressed formally by their surname, prefixed by Herr for a man or Frau for a woman. First names are not acceptable until their use is invited. Where applicable, academic titles should always be used (eg Herr Doktor). Germans are known for straight talking and they will expect business counterparts from other countries to be similarly direct. In some circumstances, instead of showing approval with applause, Bavarian businessmen and women may rap their knuckles on the table instead. Business may be conducted in a social setting although usually only with well acquainted contacts. Germans rarely invite business associates to their homes. In a social situation, one should always wait for the host to initiate business discussions. Lunch meetings, often with alcohol, are most favoured. Visitors should remember that when drinking beer, the common toast is ‘Prost', while with wine it is sometimes the more genteel version, ‘Zum Wohl'. |
