Customer Reviews

Business Germany: A Practical Guide to Understanding German Business Culture

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After living in Germany for two years, I can honestly say thatthis book does not go that much into their culture and businesspractices'.

It does provide a lot of generalities, and stereotypes. The set-up is good, American style on the left, German on the right. But for an American trying to understand German business practice, it will not give the 20/20 that a professional needs.

It leaves out things such as business hours. Which can be rather fustrating for Americans that are used to 24/7. They cherish their Sundays, and have very short business hours the rest of the week.

I was able to read this book during my train ride from Nurnberg to Bamberg, on a RE train that only covered 56K. Which means it is a relatively short book.

The German culture is much more sophisticated then the image written in the book. A businees professional that reads this book will trip over thier feet if they follow the guidelines.

Yes they are organized, and yes they like punctuallity. But they are extremely friendly, and most American customs are welcomed.

If you are about to enter into a German business agreement, learn the language. Just trying to speak their language will go a long way. My last bit of advice is don't be put off if they smoke in their office.