Doing Business with Germans《Only one who knows himself and his counterp

Since my semester presentation of interculture skills is about 'Indo-German' I got this book from the chair of international management faculty he recommends this one as a 'must read' for anyone who has contact with Germans whether in business or any other sphere of life.

The author Sylvia Schroll-Machl explains the norms and values of German society their historical development as well as their expression in the daily life.

During her extensive experience as an intercultural researcher and trainer she has gathered numerous case studies and anecdotes which vibrantly illustrate the rocky road of intercultural travel.The cases are quite interesting and many of these are amusing in themselves many will elicit a laugh of recognition especial for my first time being in German 'That's just what happened to me!'

In her introduction the author has a special section headed: 'Let me say the following to my German readers.' This section is the first eye-opener for the non-German reader because it explains one of the areas of German sensitivity that is emotionally hyper loaded the reasons that Germans feel uncomfortable when people talk about 'the Germans' and why they resist any discussion of German traits.

As objectivism (being objective downplaying social-emotional factors) is one of the central German culture standards understanding what feelings they are eliciting in their German counterparts can remain a constant challenge to the non-German.

The author's ability to explain not only why Germans act in a certain way but how they feel in a given situation. is particularly valuable for the non-German reader.

Equally as instructive the author tells us where feelings are not involved which can come as a surprise.

The author also presents research which differentiates and compares how a given German culture standard is perceived from the point of view people from a wide range of non-German cultures. By doing so she avoids the trap of all-too-encompassing generalizations while still managing to define what is special about the Germans.

'Doing Business with Germans' is distinctive because it is based on real life experiences and was designed to be used in real life situations. It is a book for both newcomers to the German scene as well as for those who have extensive experience in Germany and with Germans.