10 Things you should know about the German WORK CULTURE 🥥🍻

Summary

This video offers a comprehensive guide to the German work culture, highlighting ten key aspects for newcomers. It emphasizes the importance of punctuality, directness, and honesty in the workplace, while also discussing the clear distinction between co-workers and friends. The script touches on early lunch habits, the preference for natural ventilation over air conditioning, and the social acceptance of drinking beer at work. Coffee consumption, the unique 'toy toy toy' good luck gesture, and the strong work-life balance in Germany are also covered, showcasing the efficiency and enjoyment of life outside of work hours.

Takeaways

• 🕒 Punctuality is highly valued in German work culture; being on time for work and meetings is expected and latecomers may receive direct feedback.
• 🔍 Germans are known for their honesty and directness at work, which can include providing straightforward feedback without being angry or offended.
• 👥 There is a clear distinction between co-workers and friends in German culture, with building friendships taking time and a gradual process.
• 🍻 Drinking beer with colleagues is common and socially acceptable in Germany, often symbolizing a step in building relationships outside of work.
• 🥪 Germans tend to have lunch earlier compared to other cultures, with typical lunch hours ranging from 11:30 to 12:30.
• 🌬 Germans often open windows in the workplace for ventilation, even in winter, following the practice of 'Durchzug' or through ventilation.
• 💨 There is a general aversion to air conditioning in Germany, with many preferring natural ventilation over AC, due to health concerns.
• 🍺 Beer is not considered a taboo at work and is often available in office fridges, aligning with the cultural acceptance of drinking in moderation during social hours.
• ☕ Coffee culture is significant in German workplaces, with employees frequently taking breaks to enjoy multiple cups throughout the day.
• 🤞 The phrase 'Toy Toy Toy' is used as a form of encouragement or good luck, often accompanied by a knock on a table.
• 🏖 Work-life balance is a key aspect of German work culture, with employees prioritizing personal time and leisure activities after work hours.

Q & A

What is the first point discussed in the video about the German work culture?

The first point discussed is punctuality. Germans are known for being efficient and punctual, and being late is generally frowned upon in the workplace.

What is the expectation regarding punctuality if you are expected to start work at nine?

If you are expected to start work at nine, you should be working by that time. Entering the building exactly at nine would be considered late.

Can the expectation of punctuality vary depending on the job or company?

Yes, punctuality expectations can vary depending on the job or company. For instance, in customer service roles, being ready to work at the start time is crucial.

What is the cultural attitude towards honesty in the German workplace?

Honesty is highly valued in the German workplace. Germans are direct and may openly point out if someone is late or not performing well, not out of anger but as a matter of fact for improvement.

How is the distinction between a co-worker and a friend generally viewed in the German work culture?

There is a clear distinction between co-workers and friends in German work culture. It can take a significant amount of time to transition from being co-workers to friends outside of work.

What is the typical lunchtime for Germans in the workplace?

The typical lunchtime for Germans is between 11:30 and 12:30. However, this can vary depending on the work culture and the starting time of work.

Why do Germans often open windows in the workplace, even in winter?

Germans open windows to ventilate the room and ensure proper oxygen circulation. This practice, known as 'Durchzug' or 'through-pull', is done even in winter for health and comfort reasons.

What is the general stance on air conditioning in German offices?

Air conditioning is not commonly used in German homes and can be a contentious issue in offices. Many Germans believe that AC can lead to illness and prefer natural ventilation.

Is it acceptable to have beer at work in Germany?

Yes, having beer at work is not a taboo in Germany. It is common to have beer in the office fridge, and it is acceptable to drink beer with colleagues after work or during special occasions.

How important is coffee in the German workplace?

Coffee is very important in the German workplace. Many Germans drink multiple cups of coffee throughout the workday, and the coffee machine is often a central point in the office.

What does the phrase 'Toy Toy Toy' signify in a German work context?

The phrase 'Toy Toy Toy' is a German expression used to wish someone good luck, similar to saying 'break a leg'. It often comes with a knock on a table.

How is work-life balance perceived in the German work culture?

Work-life balance is highly valued in German work culture. Germans are known for being efficient during work hours and prioritizing personal time after work, including enjoying leisure activities during good weather.