GERMANY | Internship: At Work | Negotiating
Corresponding to the German cultural standards mentioned under the general information paragraph, Germans are very matter-of-fact during negotiations. They are usually well prepared, punctual and have planned a certain amount of time for the discussion. German expect that wishes, criticism and viewpoints are clearly pointed out. A negotiation is an exchange of arguments with the aim of finding a good and fair result from a professional point of view for both parties. Feelings do not matter. An outbreak of emotion testifies (professional) inferiority. The „proven” better arguments count. This means that Germans are often well prepared and incorporate expert opinions and statistics etc to underline their position.
Conflict Situations
Conflicts in the workplace are also discussed objectively. This would be the course of events when an employee/trainee is unsatisfied with his/her boss or another member of staff:
- Ask for an appointment with the person who is directly (!) concerned.
- Make sure the conflict reason is well presented. Do not waffle on or show emotions; get straight to the point and justify your position with professional arguments or proof.
- While the other person presents his/her opinion, don´t interrupt. Interrupting the person whose “go” it is, is seen as unfair and impolite.
- Then try to make constructive suggestions so that a compromise can be achieved.
- Avoid (personal) complaints / remain professional!