GERMANY | Internship: At work | Cultural standards
Definition of cultural standards
"Culture standards can be seen as the socially shared norms and values that are used by the individuals living within a particular culture to evaluate the behaviour of each other. Culture standards are used to set standards, limits and to establish a frame of reference against which to measure behaviour." (Thomas 1999, pp.114f.)
These cultural norms are the forms of behaviour that non-Germans often find different from their own culture and sometimes even irritating. We can never give characteristics of a whole people that really fits all its individuals. So please keep in mind that the culture standards are a generalization that need to be verified in each situation. They are meant to explain different behaviour and the values behind it with the aim to help you avoid misunderstandings and frustration.
Objectivism
For professional cooperation with Germans, the subject being dealt with, the roles and the professional competence of the participants are decisive. Matter of fact behaviour is seen as professional. Objective arguments are valued, emotions and personal relationships are less important. The important thing is who has the better arguments. Arguments are quite often more important than hierarchies.The boss is not always right! People argue target- and fact-oriented. There is no German equivalent for the term “small talk” as they often prefer to “get to the point” that is: to work. Private conversations are kept to a minimum, coffee breaks for exchanging private and business news are not common.
If you come from a culture where a good personal relationship is very important, you might find this behaviour cold or rude. Take your time to get to know the Germans in a private setting, you will be surprised how warm and friendly they will probably become. For Germans objectivism is a strategy to find the best solution for all, without getting lost in emotional constraints. Please keep in mind: If you prove to a German to be a reliable and committed worker, she or he might want to become friends with you…
Appreciation for rules, regulations and structures
In Germany there are countless numbers of rules, regulations, directives and laws which are strictly complied with. If anyone goes against these rules, other people who are not involved might rebuke them. This reflects the need for control and the ideal of transparency and equality (everyone is equal according to the law).
In order to create rules, complex and detailed planning is very important. This is intended to eliminate errors before they can happen. Everyone who is involved is included in the planning process. The plan can then be set in place and the points are processed accordingly. There is little flexibility from this point onwards.
Formal communication channels are given preference in the workplace. This means consultation, meetings and conferences recorded with minutes and an information distribution system.
The fulfilment of tasks is the main focus when assessing employees.
Time planning
Time is precious and an important subject in Germany “I don’t have the time.” “I’m under stress”. Time must be used effectively. Therefore, everything is precisely planned, even long-term dates.
Punctuality and reliability are fundamental for a good working relationship. Time is dedicated to important things and important people. A good reason for unpunctuality must be given otherwise this is taken as a personal offence.
Arranged appointments are binding and mandatory. In order for the system not to break down due to all of the appointments, the timely execution of tasks and projects according to plan has a higher priority than personal interests and hardly gives any time for spontaneous meetings.
Internalized control
This means that everyone in the working environment complies with specific roles and skills, keeps promises and stands to agreements, is punctual and actively takes the necessary initiatives. It is rather not external authorities who control this but it is simply expected that everyone does his or her duty. This means that individuals identify themselves with the joint plan and take over responsibility for implementing the plans for their own area of work.
Separation of personality and living spheres
At work, the Germans (objectivism) are very different people than in their free time (relationship oriented) and behave differently towards other people depending upon whether they are involved on a private or working level. During initial contact they tend to keep a distance and holding factual conversations. Once you have gained a German as a friend, the relationship is a deep and serious matter of the heart which is associated with mutual obligations (German faithfulness, remembering birthdays etc.).
Private matters and business matters are strictly separated and personal questions at work are often found to be intrusive. During initial contact the conversations usually revolve around work. A good subject is also the home country of a new foreign colleague.
The easiest way to find friends in Germany is through a mutual interest such as in a club.
Straight talking
The German communication style is generally direct, explicit, not always diplomatic, and truthful: Germans say what they mean and mean what they say! They get straight to the point and expect this from others too. They do generally not think about the other person’s feelings but do not intend to hurt others. The open expression of opinions and constructive criticism is not aiming at criticising the person! Other nationalities might find this to be impolite and aggressive.