The German Culture, Customs and Etiquette

Like every country, Germany has its own set of unique customs. So, if you are planning to visit Germany or if you are thinking of living here, it is important to familiarize yourself with the German culture. It will help avoid some of the most common intercultural misunderstandings when dealing with Germans.

1.        A planning Culture

German culture prizes forward thinking and knowing what one will    be doing at a specific time on a specific day as well ahead in the future. Careful planning, in one’s business and personal life, provides a sense of security.      

2.        The German Home

They are kept neat and tidy at all times. Often, only close friends and relatives are invited into the privacy of the house. In some houses, you might be expected to take off your shoes when entering. A short enquiry will help finding out. Guests are expected to respect the homeowner’s privacy. So, do not enter into other rooms of the house unless the host invites you to.

3.        Communication

Communications styles in Germany may be perceived as direct, short and to the point. For example, if a German asks if you want food and you respond “No” to avoid appearing greedy, they may accept your first answer and not ask again. This can put some foreigners in difficult positions when their refusal of an offer is taken at face value. As such, it is best to give straightforward honest answers rather than being indirect out of modesty or shyness.

4.        Punctuality

Germans are extremely punctual and well-mannered. Showing up late is considered rude and thoughtless. So, make sure to be always on time. If you expect to be delayed, telephone immediately and offer an explanation.

5.        Birthday Wish

Never greet or wish a German a happy birthday or give them a card or present before their birthday. It is considered in Germany as bad luck.

6.        Greeting Someone

Don’t greet someone with a hug unless you are close friends. A standard way of greeting someone in Germany is by giving a handshake. It is proper to shake hands with each person of a group that you encounter.

7.        Gesture

When invited to someone’s home, always arrive on time and bring a small gift. It is usual in Germany to bring flowers or a bottle of wine if you are invited to visit someone. It is a nice gesture and will bring you a truly warm smile. So don’t be surprised if your Guest brings you Flowers, when they also visit you.

8.        Gift Giving

Avoid giving personal items such as toiletries unless you are close friends and know the person will appreciate the item. German usually open gifts upon receiving them.

9.        Visiting

Germans generally do not invite people to visit their house on a regular basis unless they are very close. They rarely visit each other without making plans to do so. If you want to visit someone, you have to organize your visit in advance.

10.     Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a German’s house or to a restaurant to eat, you should arrive on time. Remain standing until you are invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat. Only start eating once the host has said that it is time to begin or someone says “Guten Appétit” (Good Appetite). Repeat the words and start eating. If an alcoholic beverage is served, wait until the host makes a toast before drinking. A common toast is “Prost“(Cheers). It is very important to look people in the eye as you toast. It is the best practice in Germany to eat everything on your plate as this shows that you enjoyed the meal. Leaving food on your plate is considered wasteful.

11.     Traffic Lights Rules

Germans are world-renowned for their order rules and they know how to follow them. For instance, expect to wait at the crosswalk until the green man gives you the go ahead. Never jaywalk, wait for the traffic lights to turn green even if there are no cars in sight. Crossing the road at a red light can result a fine and angry remarks by other pedestrians, especially when kids are watching.

12.     Other Etiquette

·    Knock before entering a room if someone has shut the door. Germans are often happy to receive people even if their doors are shut, but one should enter respecting their privacy.

·    It is common for Germans to share tables with strangers in Public places. So, if someone asks, “Ist dieser Platz noch frei?” (Is this seat free?), they intended to share tables with you.

·     Sundays is a day of rest in Germany. Most shops close and people tend not to do hardwork.