These guidelines are most relevant to traditional office and business settings in Germany. For more modern or informal workplaces, such as urban start-ups, norms may be more relaxed. When in doubt, observe and adapt to the behavior of those around you.¹

Building Relationships

Stable, trusting relationships are essential in German business. Germans value reliability and prefer to know their partners well before engaging in significant business. However, business interactions remain practical and task-oriented, with a clear distinction between personal and professional matters.²

Communication Style

German communication is direct, clear, and fact-based. In negotiations and meetings, expect frankness and expect to be equally straightforward in return. Presentations should be supported by thorough facts, figures, and data, with little embellishment. Feedback is typically honest and focused on the issue, not the individual. This directness is intended for clarity and efficiency, not rudeness.³

Non-Verbal Communication

Personal space is valued. Handshakes are the standard greeting and farewell in business settings—firm, brief, and with eye contact. Other forms of physical contact, such as patting on the shoulder or arm, are generally avoided. Maintain an arm’s length distance during conversations.⁴ 

Introductions and Forms of Address

Hierarchy and structure are important. Introduce the highest-ranking guest first and use formal titles (Herr/Frau + surname) unless invited to use first names. The formal “Sie” is standard in business; only switch to “du” (informal “you”) if explicitly invited. When answering the phone, it is common to state your last name rather than just saying “hello.”⁵

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued. Being late is seen as disrespectful and can harm business relationships. Plan ahead for delays and, if you anticipate being late, inform your counterpart as soon as possible and apologize sincerely upon arrival.⁶

Meetings

Meetings are scheduled well in advance and follow a strict agenda. Last-minute changes are discouraged. Begin and end meetings with a handshake for each participant, respecting the hierarchy. Meetings are structured, with clear roles and a focus on decisive outcomes. Decision-making can be methodical and slow, emphasizing thoroughness over speed.⁷

Dress Code

Business attire is formal and conservative. Men typically wear dark suits and ties; women wear suits or professional dresses in neutral colors. In technology and start-up environments, dress codes may be more relaxed, but it is best to err on the side of formality until you are familiar with the company culture.⁸ 

Entertaining

Breakfast meetings are uncommon, but lunch invitations are typical. The host usually pays, but it is wise to confirm. Small talk is acceptable but should remain light and non-controversial. Avoid topics like salary. The host initiates eating and conversation. Socializing with clients is less common than with colleagues. For toasts, use “Prost” with beer and “Zum Wohl” with wine.⁹

Public and Private Lives

There is a strong separation between work and private life. Respect colleagues’ privacy—always knock before entering a closed office and avoid calling at home unless it’s urgent. After-hours work communication is generally discouraged.¹⁰

Gift Giving

Gift-giving is not customary in business settings. However, if invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift such as chocolates or wine. In business, gifts should be modest and not extravagant, as expensive gifts may be viewed with suspicion. Small tokens for colleagues may be acceptable, but always consider company policy.¹¹

1. S&S Consult. “German Business Culture Guide: Etiquette & Practices 2025.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://www.sandsconsult.com/knowledge/german-business-culture-understanding-the-keys-to-success-in-the-german-market
2. Globig. “The Ultimate Guide to Business Etiquette in Germany.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://globig.co/the-ultimate-guide-to-business-etiquette-in-germany-2/
3. Executive Planet. “Business Etiquette in Germany: Key Culture Rules to Follow.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://executiveplanet.com/business-etiquette-in-germany/
4. Life in Germany. “German Business Etiquette for Successful Relations.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://en.life-in-germany.de/mastering-german-business-etiquette-for-successful-relations/
5. Life in Germany. “Office Attire in Germany: The Professional Guide.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://en.life-in-germany.de/understanding-office-attire-in-germany-the-professional-guide/
6. Deutschland.de. “A Guide to German Etiquette.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/life/a-guide-to-german-etiquette
7. Chancenkarte. “Workplace Ethics in Germany: 7 Unspoken Rules.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://chancenkarte.com/en/news/workplace-ethics-in-germany-7-unspoken-rules/
8. BusinessCulture.org. “Business etiquette in Germany: punctuality, gift giving and CSR.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://businessculture.org/western-europe/business-culture-in-germany/business-etiquette-in-germany/
9. Planet Depos. “German Business Etiquette.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://planetdepos.com/german-business-etiquette
10. German Insights. “Beyond Punctuality: 7 Essential Rules of German Work Culture & Etiquette.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://germaninsights.com/german-work-culture-etiquette/
11. BusinessCulture.org. “Business etiquette in Germany: punctuality, gift giving and CSR.” Accessed December 18, 2025. https://businessculture.org/western-europe/business-culture-in-germany/business-etiquette-in-germany/