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When In Germany, Do As The Germans Do: A Guide to German Etiquette

Philip Bell

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Published in When In Germany Do As The Germans Do (When In Do As The Local Do)

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Germany is a country with a rich history and culture. When visiting Germany, it is important to be aware of local customs and etiquette to avoid any faux pas. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to German etiquette, covering everything from greetings to dining to business conduct.

When in Germany, Do as the Germans Do (When in . . . Do As the Local Do)

by Hyde Flippo

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Greetings

When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to shake hands firmly. Men may also greet women with a kiss on the cheek, but this is not always expected. It is important to make eye contact when shaking hands or kissing someone on the cheek.

When addressing someone, it is polite to use their title and last name. For example, you would address a doctor as "Dr. Müller" or a professor as "Professor Schmidt." If you are not sure what someone's title is, you can simply say "Herr" (Mr.) or "Frau" (Ms.) followed by their last name.

Dining

When dining in Germany, it is important to be aware of the following customs:

* It is considered rude to start eating before everyone at the table has been served. * It is also considered rude to talk with your mouth full. * When eating soup, it is acceptable to slurp. * It is not customary to tip in Germany, but it is appreciated if you round up the bill to the nearest euro.

Business Conduct

When conducting business in Germany, it is important to be aware of the following customs:

* Punctuality is very important in Germany. It is considered rude to be late for a meeting or appointment. * It is also important to dress professionally when meeting with German businesspeople. * When shaking hands, it is important to make eye contact and have a firm handshake. * It is not customary to use first names when addressing German businesspeople. Instead, you should use their title and last name. * It is important to be aware of the German hierarchy. When meeting with a group of German businesspeople, it is important to address the most senior person first.

Other Customs

In addition to the customs mentioned above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when visiting Germany:

* It is considered rude to blow your nose in public. * It is also considered rude to spit on the ground. * When entering a home, it is customary to remove your shoes. * It is not customary to give gifts when visiting someone's home. However, it is appreciated if you bring a small gift for the host or hostess.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid any faux pas and make a good impression on the German people. Remember, when in Germany, do as the Germans do!

When in Germany, Do as the Germans Do (When in . . . Do As the Local Do)

by Hyde Flippo

4 out of 5