Culture in Germany and India
Cultural differences between India and Germany
Increasingly, managers must deal with multiple ethnic groups with very different cultures. Thanks to globalization, we are likely to work with Japanese, French, Chinese, German and all sorts of other nationalities. It is important to recognize that people from different cultures are different in a variety of ways, including different ways of attending meetings and negotiations. In the following essay I will present the differences between an Europe country, Germany and an oriental one, India, in terms of meetings and negotiations. In Germany, punctuality is a serious issue. Business people work hard and are under a lot of pressure. Germans typically plan their time very carefully. It is considered bad etiquette to be late or early as it shows disrespect for people’s time. In India, punctuality is expected, although being 10 minutes late will not have disastrous consequences. Flexibility is paramount. Family responsibilities take precedence over business so last minute cancellations are possible when doing business. The Germans will analyse proposals thoroughly. The information they provide is in written format and presented scientifically. Logical conclusions based on empirical evidence will only normally carry any weight. Decisions will not be made on sales technique or charm but on concrete facts that demonstrate a sound opportunity with minimal risk. Indians do not base their business decisions solely on statistics, empirical data and exciting PowerPoint presentations. They use intuition, feeling and faith to guide them. They always exercise patience, show good character and never exhibit frustration or anger. Decisions are made slowly and methodically in Germany. They do not try to rush proceedings or apply pressure. If anything, enquire as to areas in which they may be able to furnish with additional or more specific information. Germans are prepared with back-up information with insight from
Increasingly, managers must deal with multiple ethnic groups with very different cultures. Thanks to globalization, we are likely to work with Japanese, French, Chinese, German and all sorts of other nationalities. It is important to recognize that people from different cultures are different in a variety of ways, including different ways of attending meetings and negotiations. In the following essay I will present the differences between an Europe country, Germany and an oriental one, India, in terms of meetings and negotiations. In Germany, punctuality is a serious issue. Business people work hard and are under a lot of pressure. Germans typically plan their time very carefully. It is considered bad etiquette to be late or early as it shows disrespect for people’s time. In India, punctuality is expected, although being 10 minutes late will not have disastrous consequences. Flexibility is paramount. Family responsibilities take precedence over business so last minute cancellations are possible when doing business. The Germans will analyse proposals thoroughly. The information they provide is in written format and presented scientifically. Logical conclusions based on empirical evidence will only normally carry any weight. Decisions will not be made on sales technique or charm but on concrete facts that demonstrate a sound opportunity with minimal risk. Indians do not base their business decisions solely on statistics, empirical data and exciting PowerPoint presentations. They use intuition, feeling and faith to guide them. They always exercise patience, show good character and never exhibit frustration or anger. Decisions are made slowly and methodically in Germany. They do not try to rush proceedings or apply pressure. If anything, enquire as to areas in which they may be able to furnish with additional or more specific information. Germans are prepared with back-up information with insight from