Navigating German Culture: Essential Dos and Don’ts

Before diving into the dos and don’ts of German culture, it’s important to recognize that Germany is a diverse country, with each federal state boasting its own unique customs and traditions. Moreover, individual personalities vary widely. While the guidelines here will help you navigate common situations and avoid pitfalls, remember that they may not apply universally across the country or to every person you meet.

1. Professional Etiquette in Germany: Dos and Don’ts

Be Punctual: Germans value punctuality. If you schedule a meeting, make sure to specify the exact time and arrive at least five minutes early. This shows respect for others’ time.

Keep Your Word: If you say you’ll do something, even casually, your German colleagues will expect you to follow through. For instance, if you mention lending a book, they’ll expect you to bring it as promised.

Engage in Small Talk: Before diving into business discussions, Germans typically engage in two to three minutes of small talk. This might cover topics like the weather, recent vacations, or general well-being.

Firm Handshake and Eye Contact: When greeting someone, give a firm handshake while maintaining eye contact. This is a sign of respect and professionalism.

Bring Cake on Your Birthday: In many German workplaces, it’s customary for the birthday person to bring a cake for colleagues. Place it in a common area and let your team know where they can find it.

Organize a Farewell Party: If you’re leaving the company, consider organizing a farewell breakfast or gathering. While not mandatory, it’s a nice way to express gratitude and say goodbye.

Avoid Drinking During Office Hours: Even if alcohol is permitted in the office, it’s best to abstain, unless it’s a special occasion where everyone is participating.

Know Your Limits at Team Events: While after-work drinks are common, it’s crucial to know your limits to avoid any embarrassing situations.

Don’t Take Feedback Personally: Germans are known for being direct in their communication, especially when giving feedback. Remember, it’s about your work, not you as a person.

Wait Before Eating: During team lunches, it’s polite to wait until everyone has their food before starting to eat.

Avoid Making Noise While Eating: Be mindful not to slurp or make loud noises while eating, as this can be considered impolite.

2. Navigating Germany’s Drinking Culture: What to Know

Make Eye Contact When Clinking Glasses: When raising a toast with friends or colleagues, always make eye contact while clinking glasses. It’s a small but important gesture. (Not looking into the other persons eyes means “7years of bad s…”)

Avoid Misbehaving After Drinking: While drinking is common in social settings, it’s important to remain respectful and avoid any behavior that could be seen as inappropriate.

Public Drinking is Acceptable, But Discreet: Although drinking in public is legal, it’s often best to be discreet and respectful of your surroundings.

3. Dating in Germany: Essential Dos and Don’ts

Split the Bill on the First Date: It’s common to split the bill on a first date in Germany, although the man may offer to pay.

Keep It Casual: Germans appreciate simplicity, so don’t feel pressured to overdress for a date. Dress nicely, but keep it comfortable and authentic to your style.

Be Yourself: Many Germans are open to learning about other cultures. Don’t be afraid to share aspects of your background and how dating works in your culture.

Respect Gender Equality: In Germany, gender equality is important. Men should be respectful without being overbearing, and women should not expect men to cover all expenses.

4. Living in a German Apartment: Rules and Tips

Proper Garbage Disposal: Germans take waste separation seriously. Make sure to separate your trash correctly to avoid fines and maintain good relations with your neighbors.

Follow House Rules: Every apartment building has its own set of rules that must be followed. Not adhering to these rules can result in consequences, including possible termination of your rental contract.

Keep Common Areas Clean: If you dirty the common areas, such as stairs or hallways, be sure to clean up after yourself.

Observe Quiet Hours (Ruhezeit): Loud noises are generally prohibited after 8 PM on weekdays and 10 PM on Saturdays, with Sundays being particularly quiet. Be mindful of these rules to avoid complaints or even visits from the police.

Ventilate Your Apartment Daily: Germans commonly ventilate their homes twice a day, even in winter. This helps prevent odors and maintains good air quality.

Handle Repairs Before Moving Out: Before leaving a rental property, take care of small repairs and painting. This not only leaves a good impression but can also ensure the return of your full security deposit.

5. Building Friendships in Germany: Key Dos and Don’ts

Don’t Wish a German Happy Birthday Early: There’s a strong belief that wishing someone a happy birthday before the actual day brings bad luck.

Avoid Spontaneous Visits: Germans prefer planning and sticking to routines. Unannounced visits can be seen as disruptive, so always call ahead.

Respect Boundaries: If a German friend asks you not to do something, respect their wishes. “No” really means no.

Greet Friends with a Hug: It’s common to greet friends with a hug, regardless of gender, when meeting them.

Bring a Gift When Invited: When invited to a friend’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or a bottle of wine.

Contribute to Parties: If invited to a party or barbecue, bring something to eat or drink. This practice helps share the hosting responsibilities and shows your appreciation.

6. Street Etiquette in Germany: What to Do and Avoid

Avoid Walking or Parking on Cycle Lanes: Cycle lanes are for cyclists only. Always be mindful of this to avoid accidents or fines.

Give Priority to Pedestrians: Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and be aware of foot traffic.

Cross at Designated Spots: Only cross the road at zebra crossings or when the pedestrian light is green.

Don’t Spit on the Road: Use a tissue if needed and dispose of it properly.

Greet Others on the Street: It’s polite to make eye contact and greet people as you pass them on the street, especially in smaller towns.

7. Using Public Transport in Germany: Important Guidelines

Don’t Eat on the Train: Eating on public transport is generally frowned upon. Keep it tidy and avoid strong-smelling foods.

Keep Feet Off Seats: It’s considered disrespectful to put your feet on train seats. Always keep them on the floor.

Avoid Pushing in Crowded Stations: Be patient and avoid pushing others when navigating busy train stations.

Keep Phone Conversations Quiet: Speak softly on your phone to avoid disturbing fellow passengers.

Use Headphones: If watching a movie or listening to music, always use headphones.

Validate Your Ticket: Physical tickets must be validated before boarding. Look for the punching machines on platforms or inside vehicles.

Let Others Disembark First: Always let passengers exit the train or bus before you board.

Avoid Drinking on Public Transport: While not illegal, drinking on public transport is generally discouraged.

8. Beach Etiquette in Germany: Dos and Don’ts

Don’t Stare at Naked People: Nudity is common on some German beaches, and it’s important to respect others’ privacy. Avoid staring or making anyone uncomfortable.

Apply Sunscreen: Even if you think you don’t need it, sunscreen is essential to protect against sunburn.

Clean Up After Yourself: Always pick up your trash and leave the beach as you found it.

9. Dining Out in Germany: Restaurant Etiquette

Dos and Don’ts of Dining in a Restaurant in Germany

Split the Bill (Getrennt zahlen): It’s common for each person to pay for their own meal in a restaurant.

Tip Around 10%: While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s customary to leave around 10% of the bill as a tip.

Don’t Expect Over-the-Top Service: Service in Germany can be straightforward and to the point. Don’t take it personally if it seems less attentive than what you’re used to.

Use the Same Cutlery: In many restaurants, you’ll use the same fork and knife for multiple courses. It’s a cultural norm, so don’t be surprised.

Signal When You’re Done Eating: Place your knife and fork parallel on your plate to indicate that you’ve finished your meal.

10. General Cultural Dos and Don’ts in Germany

Follow the Queue: Always respect the line, and don’t hesitate to speak up if someone cuts in.

Tip Around 10%: Tipping is a common practice, but it’s typically modest. Around 10% is sufficient in most situations.

Pay to Use Public Toilets: It’s common to tip the attendant at public restrooms. While not mandatory, it’s considered polite.

Avoid Jokes About Nazis: This topic is extremely sensitive in Germany, and it’s best to avoid making any related jokes or comments.

Hold Doors for Others: It’s a simple gesture that’s appreciated and expected in many situations.

Use Proper Greetings: In formal settings, address people by their last name. In informal situations, first names are commonly used, regardless of age or status.

• 25 Common Pitfalls Expats Face in Germany (And How to Avoid Them)
• How to Register in Germany: The 2024 English Guide to “Anmeldung”
• Getting a German Driving License: Step-by-Step Checklist
• Navigating German Culture: Essential Dos and Don’ts
• Tax Classes in Germany (Steuerklassen): What You Need to Know