Business-EtiketteREPORT BY MORGAN LAWRENCE

First Impressions• When meeting a German professional, be sure

to remember their exact title and use it in reference.• Frau is used for females and Herr for males,

Herr Doktor is used depending on background.– Ex. Frau Doktor Bogard

• If invited to a German business person’s house, bring imported wine or fine chocolates, or a souvenir from your home country.• Greeting is commemorated with a quick brief

handshake and direct eye contact.

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In a meeting• German professionals are very meticulous,

and details are greatly appreciated.• Decisions are made from the highest

position down, so the person with the highest professional rank has the final say.• Once a negotiation has been reached, it is

rare that it will be modified later.• If you are late enter without a fuss and at

the end of the meeting apologize to the highest ranking professional.

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Attire & Miscellaneous• Do not bring lilies as a gift, as they are used in

German Funerals.• Men should wear, black, navy, or dark grey

suits and whites shirts with a tie.• Women should wear pantsuits or dress suits to

a meeting and in a muted color.• Avoid wearing flashy or expensive looking

jewelry.• Being punctual is extremely important, do not

exceed more than fifteen minutes when early, and if you are more than five minutes late, call.

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Fragen• 1. How do you address a male doctor in

Germany?– Doktor– Frau– Herr Doktor

• 2. Who makes the final decision in a business meeting?– Your fellow employee– The highest ranking professional– The janitor

Anworten• 1. Herr Doktor whatshisname• 2. The highest ranking professional

Resources• http://

www.ehow.com/about_6627565_social-etiquette-germany.html• http://

www.ehow.com/about_6661817_german-business-etiquette.html• http://www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?

title=Germany

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