Posted in Germany forum
When an American has a job in Germany, what is different about the office culture? Does anyone have a job that can tell me about the office culture, etc? I'd love to hear about experiences.
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Office Culture
posted by Rafaela Veira in Germany forum
Many of these points are true but there are advantages to being in a German office setting. Although its often conservative, voicing your opinion after you become permanent will rarely land you on the street. In the US, due to employment at will from both employer and employee alike, there is an ere of honesty lost. If there are decisions made that not everyone agrees upon, it does hapen that some will choose silence in fear of losing their position. Germans also place much value on job satisfaction meaning they look to see that you are a good fit not only based on your skillset but also based on your overall goals. If its determined that you're just "looking for a job" during the interview process, you may not get very far.
Office Culture
posted by Frank (confidential) in Germany forum
Office culture differs greatly from company to company and also depends on which industry you're in.
In General, Germans are very serious about their work (and also often very conservative and averse to change). They strictly separate work and private life (so don't expect to spend free time with colleagues or become personal friends) and they are individualists pursuing their own ideas (thus tramwork is difficult).
Dp not expect an open "can do" athmosphere as is common in the USA!
Also, many (especially bigger) companies have lots of office politics. This is no different from other countries, but as a foreigner you are more often at the losing end of it.