Relationships and Respect
What are the expectations of most German businesspeople regarding their partners' commitment to the engagement in terms of duration?
To make a long-term commitment
What is a sign of speaking slowly and clearly?
Authority
Three aspects of meetings
1- Schedule meetings in advance
2- Avoid canceling on short notice
3- Punctuality
What is more effective in the bargaining process?
Written offers and terms can be more effective
Mention some considerations in agreements
-Written contracts hold significant importance
Signature authority is limited to individuals with high-ranking positions
How are the Germans going to behave at the start of the negotiations?
Germans will be very cautious, quite reserved, and proceed slowly.
When raising a concern, how must people express their thoughts?
Without softening the messages.
Describe the arguments in a meeting
Logical arguments, substantial technical data and hard facts
Mention three important factors in the pace of negotiation
1- Patience
2- Emotional control
3- Acceptance of delays
Give a tip for negotiations related to clothing
Avoid expressing surprise about the unconventional clothing choices of German counterparts
What does respect for people depend on?
It depends on his or her achievements, status and rank, and education.
Do you know three German words?
Hallo
Danke
Guten Tag
How are the names usually given?
In order of first name, family name, and academic titles should be used when applicable.
Who are the decision-makers?
Usually senior executives
What is a sign of respect?
Maintain proper posture
How much it will takes to build a strong personal relationships with your German business partners?
This will take time, usually months or even years.
How is the German communication?
Very Direct
What is their perception of directness and interruption?
Germans may remind others of the agreed-upon agenda and interrupt if they feel someone is getting off-topic
Describe attitudes in negotiations
Negotiations in Germany are seen as a joint problem-solving process. Germans expect reciprocal respect and trust and avoid open confrontations
Are gifts common in negotiations?
Giving gifts in business settings is uncommon.
What are the essential factors if you want to win their trust?
Personal integrity and dependability
Can you mention an example of body language?
The American OK sign, with thumb and index finger is an obscene gesture in Germany.
What is the importance of local contact?
It is not a necessary precondition for doing business in Germany, although it can be advantageous.
Describe the negotiation style
Germans prefer a monochronic work style, focusing on systematic actions and goals. They follow a sequential order in negotiations and may use deceptive techniques.
What is the German perception of women in business?
Few women have managed to attain positions of similar income and authority as men