German Work Culture

Top 10 Aspects

When you move to a different country and have to start working in a new environment, you usually need to adjust to the local rules and practices, because work culture varies from country to country. From this article you will learn about the German work culture and what makes it different and special. If you plan to start working in Germany or are just curious about how German workplaces work, then this article is for you.

Our company, Nexus-Europe GmbH, assists foreigners with starting and developing their own business in Germany and moving to Germany through business. Over 20 years of operation we have helped more than 7000 customers.

What you should know about work culture in Germany

Now, let's talk about things you need to know before working in Germany.

Number 1: First of all, punctuality. In German work culture, being fashionably late is not an option. Meetings and appointments start exactly on the dot, so you should arrive early or on time for all business engagements. It is a sign of respect and professionalism and you don't want lose your reputation and trust in the eyes of your German colleagues and partners.

Number 2: Germans are known for being commited and hard-working. They are really serious about what they do and dedicated to delivering high-quality results. That is why products “Made in Germany” have such a solid reputation and are trusted and respected around the world.

Number 3: Work-life balance is vital in Germany. After their hard work, Germans enjoy their time off and recharge. No working outside of office hours, and employers respect that rule in work culture in Germany. It helps to lower stress and increase job satisfaction. Germans also get at least 20 vacation days per year, and in some cases you may get even more.

Number 4: Germans place a high value on education and training. Many employers offer opportunities for professional development and continuing education. This is a way for employers to keep a highly skilled workforce and for employees to grow professionally when working in Germany.

Number 5: There is usually a clear hierarchy in German workplaces. Each person has their well-defined role and responsibilities in German work culture. However, it doesn't mean that employees have no say in the decision-making process. On the contrary, their input is respected and important for making optimal decisions.
Number 6: Collaboration and cooperation among colleagues are also very important and highly encouraged in German workplaces. Teamwork makes the dream work, as they say, and this approach is indeed what makes things possible.

Number 7: Open and clear communication, both written and verbal, is a thing in work culture in Germany. Germans tend to be direct and straightforward. It can sometimes come across as rude to those from other cultures, but it shouldn't be taken this way. Germans value honesty and avoid double meaning, so you usually don't have to guess what they mean.

Number 8: Professionalism and respect are two of the keystones in German work culture. It is essential to maintain a professional style in all work-related matters. This means dressing appropriately, using formal titles and surnames, avoiding personal topics or uncalled jokes etc.

Number 9: Germans tend to be reserved in their interactions with colleagues, especially in the workplace. It doesn't mean they are cold and unfriendly. They just value privacy and boundaries and prefer to separate work from personal life. You should keep this aspect of work culture in Germany that in mind to avoid unpleasant misunderstandings.

Number 10: Team-building activities and other work-related social events are common in German work culture. They help to build stronger relationships, which also has a positive effect on the teamwork in the company. However don't forget that these events are not meant to be too casual or informal. Remaining professional and respectful is still important.

Our company, Nexus-Europe GmbH, assists foreigners with establishing their own successful business in Germany, connecting them with the German and European business world. We can also assist you with obtaining the German residence permit because of business.