Living in Germany is very different than living in Canada. This is especially true of cultural differences. Below we address different situations you may encounter while living and working in Germany.

Culture Shock: Living and working abroad can be a very rewarding experience. However, you must be willing to make the most of your stay, and keep an open mind. When you first arrive in Germany, you may be very excited and have certain expectations. It can be difficult if you what you experience is not what you expect. Frustration may occur when you don’t understand why Germans do some things differently than Canadians, especially if you think it is weird or doesn’t make any sense. You may feel that you are not being understood, or you may question why you are in Germany. You may become homesick. However, you will settle-in and you may find that some things that used to upset you are now humorous, especially when you learn why things are done in a certain way. Hopefully, you will eventually learn to appreciate German culture and perhaps when you return to Canada you will wonder why we do things in ways that may seem odd to visitors from Germany!

Punctuality: Punctuality is taken very seriously in Germany. You are expected to arrive on time for work – not a minute later. It is insulting not to be on time. If you are told that dinner is at 19:00 Uhr, it is at 19:00 Uhr, not 19:30 Uhr. Trains run on time a very high percentage of the time.

Meals: Not all Germans eat sausages and cheese all the time. Many families eat their largest meal at mid-day, not in the evening. Breakfast may consist of cold cuts, cheese, boiled eggs and cereal (Muesli), as is the custom in many other European countries.

Formalities: It is customary to address anyone older than you or people you are meeting for the first time formally (using the “Sie” form). Titles are also very important to Germans. You should address individuals by their titles (Herr Schmidt, Frau Schmidt, Dr. Schmidt).

Business: Germans are very formal when it comes to business and do not appreciate humour when they are being serious. Most shake hands at the beginning and ending of a meeting, or when being introduced to someone.

Language: Do not assume everyone speaks English. Always attempt to speak German.

Tip: for a collection of funny takes on Germany and the Germans check out this SPIEGEL-ONLINE-page.