Working in a Sino-German cross-cultural environment means diversity and colorfulness. With German headquarters, Chinese subsidiaries, Sino-German joint ventures, and supply chains in both countries, collaboration among individuals from super diverse cultural backgrounds is the new norm. However, when colleagues from China and Germany work together, you will find that they have different working habits, mindsets and communication styles, which can lead to misunderstandings, reduce productivity and have a significant impact on work results.
In cross-cultural cooperation between China and Germany, many professionals realize that language barriers, cultural differences and conflicting values not only affect communication, leadership and decision-making, but also limit the sustainable development of the company. How does one address specific challenges such as, “Why do I feel that I am often misunderstood?”, “Do we need a leader decision or a collective decision?”, “How do managers motivate their team members?”, “How can we criticize without hurting?”
Our workshop will sort out interpersonal differences between China and Germany through a number of case studies, allowing you to understand the different cultural concepts behind thinking and behavior, explaining specific situations and providing practical advice for action. We will demonstrate and discuss:
Contrasting stereotypes of individuals from China and Germany Essential soft skills for intercultural work
Direct communication/honest communication, why it is important to speak frankly Indirect communication/euphemistic communication, why you should say enough, but not more
3. Comparison of Work and Management Styles in China and Germany
Comparative analysis of management styles in China and Germany Understanding the perception of a "good leader" in Chinese culture What is a “strong team member” - as perceived coming from a German background
Our workshop provides intercultural expertise as background knowledge to understand differing behaviors, fosters increased empathy, and helps in avoiding cultural conflicts between China and Germany, reducing workplace friction, and enhancing team synergy.