A Review Of German Mannerisms For Foreign Travelers
isitors from other parts of the world that visit Germany for vacation orbusiness purposes are typically pleased to note that Germans are
cordial, polite, and welcoming. However, as with any culture, Germans
have mannerisms that are unique to them. Since social etiquette is
considered important in every society and Germans are no different,
visitors that take a small amount of time to familiarize themselves with
what Germans consider good manners will find that locals will often
appreciate and even more warmly accept them into their country.
Shaking Hands
Germans typically wait until introduced by a host to shake hands.
Typically, older parties in a group or more senior persons reserve the
right to extend their hand for a handshake first. Attendees of small
parties will always take the time to shake hands with one another when
greeting, as opposed to larger functions where hand shakes are very
rarely performed. The act of shaking hands in passing is considered
rude. If one takes the time to shake hands, it is considered a precursor
to at least a brief chat. Additionally, it is considered to rude to
shake hands while the other hand is in your pocket.
In formal settings, it is still considered custom to kiss a lady's hand
when introduced, though the lips should never actually touch the hand.
When being introduced to adults, little German girls will occasionally
courtesy in greeting. Furthermore, unlike in the United States, children
will rarely thank someone for a compliment.
Addressing Others in Germany
The female term "Fraulein" is only used to address particularly young,
unmarried girls. The shorter "Frau" is used to address older, unmarried
young ladies and women since it is considered a more mature greeting.
Also unlike in the United States, a married woman is not addressed by
her husband's first name (e.g. Mrs. John Smith), but by her own first
name (e.g. Frau Jane Smith).
Common Business Etiquette in Germany
"Du" and "Sie"
The method of addressing others by saying "you" is divided into the
formal and informal manners of "Du" and "Sie." "Du" is considered
informal and should be reserved only for close acquaintances, friends
and family. To avoid seeming disrespectful when meeting new persons,
especially in a formal or business environment, it is generally accepted
that "Sie" is the proper form to use.
Attire
American standards of business dress have relaxed in certain niche
industries in recent years, but that doesn't mean that the same is true
of Germans. It is typically customary for business attire to be worn in
nearly every business setting. Jeans, T-shirts, and similar clothing
will typically be frowned upon. When in doubt, always opt to possibly
slightly overdress than to take the risk of under-dressing.
Meetings and Functions
Unlike many other cultures, Germans will typically send invitations that
outline not only when a meeting or function will begin but also when it
will end. It would be considered good manners to use this time as a
queue to bid a proper farewell. Though no one will expect every one to
jump up and run out the door at the exact time, it can be considered
rude to ignore the outlines set up by the hosts.
