GERMAN ETIQUETTE

MEETING ETIQUETTE

Greetings are formal with a quick, firm

handshake.

A guest waits for their host to introduce them to a group. They then shake hands with everyone in

the room, including children.

Titles denote respect, so using a surname is custom until one has been invited to use a

first name.

GIFT GIVING ETIQUETTE

Gifts such as chocolates or flowers are custom when visiting a home.

Red roses are not welcomed because they symbolize romantic intentions. Carnations are also unwelcomed because they symbolize mourning. Wine should be

imported if giving it as a gift. But bringing wine says they don’t think the host will have quality wine.

DINING ETIQUETTEShowing up on time shows

proper planning. Never show up early. If a guest is going to be more then 15 minutes late, a phone call

to the host is polite.

A handwritten thank you note to the host thanking them for their hospitality is

custom.

TABLE MANNERSRemain standing until invited to sit

down.

Do not begin eating until the hosts starts eating or

until someone says ‘guten appetit'Do not rest

elbows on the table.

Cut as much food with a fork as possible. Do not cut lettuce

in a salad. Rolls are broken apart by hand.

WORK CITED

"Germany - Language, Culture, Customs and Business

Etiquette." Germany. Kwintessential. Web. 07 Mar. 2012.