Tips

Germany is one of the biggest economies in the world. The most expressive of Europe.

At the forefront of technology, particularly in the manufacturing and production areas, this country presents results that elevate it to a leading position.

Photo by Dan

This is an open market, whose international trade stands out in both imports and exports.

Like other countries, Germany also has its own business culture, with nuances and intangible rules that can be difficult to overcome. So, study the market closely, keep regular contact, and be persistent.

1. FOLLOW THE RULES OF ETIQUETTE

They vary between the cultural bond and common sense and are crucial keys to sustaining strong business relationships with your German counterparts.

• Be on time

• Adopt a formal dress code

• Use titles and surnames

• Don’t invade the personal space and narrow the contact to firm handshakes

• Don’t put your hands in your pockets while you’re talking

• Avoid personal topics and opt for other topics that can easily be approached, like football, work or beer

• Keep secure eye contact, particularly during initial presentations

2. DON’T NEGLECT THE BUSINESS MENTALITY

When submitting a proposal, avoid aggressive sales techniques, advertising, slogans or clichés.

Instead, make sure your proposal is complete and that allows a clear, precise and thorough analysis. Base your proposal on facts, be direct and frank. Usually, all the details of the submitted proposals are scrutinized before the final decision.

During business meetings, follow protocol and notice that the analysis of a proposal by the German buyer is usually exhaustive, which reveals that your proposal is being taken under consideration with interest and seriousness.

Remember: Germans are usually direct. They are not afraid to use words like “no”, “this is impossible” or “I can’t”.

Plan ahead and be sure to follow the plan, this market is not very flexible to unforeseen circumstances.

3. MASTER THE LANGUAGE

Photo by Brett Jordan

English is the most widely spoken foreign language in Germany. However, the use of the native language is still privileged.

We suggest that you develop all your communication in German, using specialist translators and creating specific content for this market. You should do it before you start expanding your company, brand or product on the German market.

And, you know: regardless of the language you decide to adopt, avoid grammatical errors and poorly structured translations.

If this is a crucial market for you, gather a team of native experts, that can communicate and develop your projects in the original language of your business partners.

4. MAKE SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES IN GERMANY

If your company is not yet recognized in this market, you will require an increased effort to gain notoriety. This means an investment in marketing and a reinforcement of your traditional and digital communication.

Attending a single exhibition by itself is usually insufficient to enter this market.

Do a thorough prior study and develop an action plan that meets your goals. Don’t forget to include all the events that will help you establish contacts with companies in this country, within the business sector you want to explore.

5. FIND OUT SOME CURIOSITIES

• Europe’s largest financial centre in Frankfurt

• Berlin is the most popular tourist destination in Germany

• The most widely spoken foreign language is English

• The world’s tallest cathedral is located in Ulm, Germany

• The world’s most famous beer festival is the “Oktoberfest” and it takes place annually in Munich

• Krampus is the antagonist of Santa Claus and punishes children who misbehave

• Germany has over 150 castles and palaces and a third of the country is covered by forests and woods

Wanna expand your business by attending relevant events in the German market?

We’ll take care of everything for you!

Determined to break boundaries, Bleach Global is a multinational company of exhibitions stand design and construction, with physical operations in Portugal (headquarters), Argentina, Chile, Brazil, UAE, India, USA, Mexico, China, Japan and Russia.

We specialize in coordinating and organizing the customer’s participation in events:

• design & construction of exhibition stands

• graphic design development

• analysis of relevant events to fulfil the customer’s goals

• selecting the location in the space of the event

• support for the accomplishment of the logistics and bureaucratic procedures

• follow up

WORLDWIDE EXHIBITIONS STAND DESIGN

Strive to exceed expectations by using Bleach Global as the competitive edge for your international expansion.

Focus on your business, we’ll take care of the rest!

Largo da Alegria, nº3 2430-266 Marinha Grande – Portugal (Sede) | T +351 244 023 726 | E [email protected]

Cover Photo by Mika Baumeister