Cross Cultural Differences

The German business field is very different from the US business field. There are cultural differences that create barriers in each market. Without knowing about these differences, there could be several issues that arise and a business deal may be lost. The most major issue that was reported in a survey conducted by the University of Rhode Island was communication (Hedderich). Germans tend to be much more direct and explicit in their communication methods than Americans. This is sometimes taken offensively by Americans who do not know the culture of the Germans because in our country, communication similar to their method is understood to be rude or aggressive. It is important to know how to communicate in order to avoid the loss of a business opportunity. Another major difference reported was the structure and rule system that is implemented in Germany versus America. There are many rules that are in place to maintain structure in German business. In Germany, you are to work only on your job and have little or no room to advance. For example, in America, chemists often run tests and analyze their own data and in Germany, chemists have lab technicians that do the testing for them while the chemists spend most of their time in the office. There is also a structured time management program in the German workplace. Germans work very little to no overtime and enjoy 24 days paid vacation with paid holidays annually. They also have scheduled breaks with little interaction with co-workers. American salaried workers reported working overtime on a regular basis and have, on average, fewer days away from the workplace. Breaks are flexible and not at a set time. Americans reportedly interact with each other during breaks instead of keeping to themselves. This structure is believed to create more efficiency in the German workplace than in America. In business transactions, Americans like to get to the point, get only essential information, and make a decision quickly. They will change their decision later if the need arises. However, Germans prefer to gather as much information as possible, review the information completely before making a business decision, and are reluctant to make changes at a later time. Germans view the quick decision making process as reckless, negative behavior where Americans see it as taking initiative.(german-way.com) The cultural differences between Germany and America are extensive and without research and information, a company could easily fail due to rejection of the business market. There have been several businesses that have fallen while trying to overcome the cross-cultural barriers that are presented in a different countries market.