DEALING WITH THE GERMANS
More clarity, fewer misunderstandings - working together more successfully
Working with German colleagues can be extremely rewarding – but also challenging. If you’ve ever been taken aback by an unexpectedly blunt email, puzzled by the minimal small talk, or encountered a plain “No” without much explanation, you know the feeling: you’ve understood the words, but not necessarily the context.
In this training, we decode the cultural norms, mindsets and expectations that shape German work practices. That way, you can communicate more deliberately, build trust – and prevent friction before it arises.
Whether you work with German teams, serve German clients, or negotiate regularly – this training offers clarity, confidence and practical insights for your day to day work.
Option 1:
In house training
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Participants: up to 12 people
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Duration: 8 hours
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Room for practice, reflection and company specific examples
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Can be tailored to your particular situation
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May be combined with other negotiation topics such as “Cross cultural Negotiation” or “Negotiating with Personalities”
Option 2:
Four hour online training
• Compact and interactive
• Participants: up to 14
• Duration: 4 hours
• Ideal for international teams or onboarding
• Delivered via Zoom or MS Teams
YOUR BENEFITS
• Cultural clarity: How do Germans think in a work context – and why?
• Increased confidence in meetings, negotiations, feedback and conflict situations
• Practical approaches to avoid misunderstandings and build bridges
• Tips to adapt your communication style without compromising your authenticity
KEY TOPIC COVERED
1. Perceptions & Stereotypes
Investigate how Germans view themselves and how they come across to others – starting with a shift in perspective and discussing typical self images and external views.
2. Cultural Pitfalls
What hinders collaboration, even when communication appears clear? We examine the invisible obstacles that may lead to misunderstandings.
3. Communication Style
Why do German emails often sound so unembellished? We explore the underlying desire for clarity and how you can respond appropriately.
4. Meetings, Emails & Daily Work
What is considered “professional” in German business culture? We explain the importance of structure, punctuality and goal orientation.
5. Building Trust
How do you foster relationships when private life stays private? Learn how trust is developed in Germany – and what truly matters.
6. Time, Rules & Planning
Is everything really so rigid? We look at the significance of structure and planning, and how to handle it with confidence.
7. Negotiations & Decision making
When are decisions actually made – and what convinces Germans? We explore German decision making processes and how to present your case effectively.
8. Background & Context
Gain deeper insights into the influences of history and regional cultures on the German mindset.
OUR APPROACH
No lecturing – just interactive, practical cultural coaching. We work with real life examples, encourage exchange, and enable reflection. Depending on the format, we include:
• Concise inputs with clear cultural comparisons
• Authentic case studies and “critical incidents”
• Chats, polls and word clouds
• Group exercises and reflection tasks
Sebastian James Hawkins
Trainer
“Someone who knows both sides can build bridges – not just between languages, but between mindsets.”
Sebastian James Hawkins is British by birth, yet has been closely connected with Germany – professionally and personally – for over 30 years. He studied International Business & German in Birmingham and Nuremberg, worked in international companies, led teams and developed training at the interface of German and global business cultures.
He doesn’t just know Germany as an economic location, but from lived experience: he is married to a German, is well acquainted with its social systems, educational structures, and the German world of work. A trainer with intercultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of both sides.
More infos...