Introductions – Sie or Du?
With regards to formalities, the English language is quite straightforward in that the use of “you” can apply to both formal and casual situations, and to all people. However, it is important to note that this is not the case with the German language. In German, there are two distinct forms of address – ‘Sie’ and ‘du’. If you intend on speaking some German, you should be aware that if you happen to use the inappropriate form of address, you run the risk of appearing somewhat rude, or conversely, too formal!
Familiarizing yourself with the basic appropriate use of ‘Sie’ and ‘du’ is advisable. Basically, the use of “Sie” is reserved for professional and unfamiliar acquaintances, senior figures and those in a superior social or business standing. Generally, if a person refers to themselves as Mr (Herr) or Mrs (Frau) followed by their family name, you will then know that it is appropriate to use the more formal “Sie” form of address.
Once you are clear which forms of address are appropriate, you will then be equipped to make introductions properly. In Germany, when under more formal circumstances, a firm handshake should be used when meeting and greeting. This is acceptable between both men and women, but make sure that during introductions, you allow for a degree of personal space.
In informal situations, female friends and family will often meet and greet by offering a cheek and kissing the air. Men can pat or slap each other on the arm or back, but it is best to only do this if your German equivalent does so first.
In general, wait for your host or hostess to introduce you to a group.
When entering a room, shake hands with everyone individually, including children.
Punctuality
You may be aware of the stereotyping of German people as being overtly punctual and efficient. This generalization may actually have some bearing, as punctuality is considered to be very important in regards to most German people’s idea of ‘proper’ social etiquette! For this reason, when in Germany you should always retain your punctuality, whether you are convening with others on a tourist outing, attending a dinner party, or making an appointment with a professional.
Make sure that you give plenty of notice if you intend to call on a German person at home or in business. Merely turning up on someone’s doorstep is considered to be very bad manners. Similarly, if you think that you might be late to an appointment, meeting or social event, you should always make a point of calling your host or acquaintance to explain your late arrival. This is thought to be a common courtesy in Germany
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a German's house:
Arrive on time as punctuality indicates proper planning. Never arrive early.
Never arrive more than 15 minutes later than invited without telephoning to explain you have been detained.
Send a handwritten thank you note the following day to thank your hostess for her hospitality.
Table manners
Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
Table manners are Continental - the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
Do not begin eating until the hostess starts or someone says 'guten appetit' (good appetite).
At a large dinner party, wait for the hostess to place her napkin in her lap before doing so yourself.
Do not rest your elbows on the table.
Do not cut lettuce in a salad. Fold it using your knife and fork.
Cut as much of your food with your fork as possible, since this compliments the cook.
Finish everything on your plate.
Rolls should be broken apart by hand.
Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate, with the fork over the knife.
The host gives the first toast.
An honored guest should return the toast later in the meal.
The most common toast with wine is 'Zum Wohl!' ('good health').
The most common toast with beer is 'Prost!' ('good health').
Business Negotiation
Do not sit until invited and told where to sit. There is a rigid protocol to be followed.
Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including starting and ending times.
Treat the process with the formality that it deserves.
Germany is heavily regulated and extremely bureaucratic.
Germans prefer to get down to business and only engage in the briefest of small talk. They will be interested in your credentials.
Make sure your printed material is available in both English and German.
Contracts are strictly followed.
You must be patient and not appear ruffled by the strict adherence to protocol. Germans are detail- oriented and want to understand every innuendo before coming to an agreement.
Business is hierarchical. Decision-making is held at the top of the company.
Final decisions are translated into rigorous, comprehensive action steps that you can expect will be carried out to the letter.
Avoid confrontational behavior or high- pressure tactics. It can be counterproductive.
Once a decision is made, it will not be changed.
Dress Etiquette
Business dress is understated, formal and conservative.
Men should wear dark colored, conservative business suits.
Women should wear either business suits or conservative dresses.
Do not wear ostentatious jewelry or accessories.
Call us and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com
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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
rawhidetravel.com
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