Culture and Holidays in Germany

Languages

Germany is a multilingual workplace environment, with German and regional dialects used across industries. While German dominates corporate settings, regional dialects are widely spoken in government and business sectors, particularly in Bavaria and Saxony. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region.  

In corporate sectors like IT and finance, German is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies. Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in German, though employees may use regional dialects informally.  

In government offices and public sector organizations, German and regional dialects are commonly used for internal communication and documentation. Germany recognizes several regional dialects, with states prioritizing their local dialects — such as Bavarian in Bavaria, Swabian in Baden-Württemberg, and Saxon in Saxony.  

The manufacturing and retail sectors rely on local dialects for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Factories, warehouses, and construction sites primarily use German or regional dialects, while management-level communication may be in German.  

In customer service, language use depends on clientele. German is common for domestic and international customer support, while many companies also hire speakers of Bavarian, Swabian, Saxon, and other regional dialects to cater to regional customers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

German workplace culture emphasizes formality, punctuality, and direct communication. Organizational hierarchies are well-defined, and adherence to established protocols is expected.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

Decision-making processes are typically top-down, with clear distinctions between roles and responsibilities. Managers hold significant authority, and employees are expected to follow established procedures.

Email and phone etiquette

Business communications are formal and concise. Emails should include a clear subject line, formal greeting, and professional closing. Phone calls are direct, with minimal small talk, focusing promptly on business matters.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Punctuality is crucial; arriving late is considered disrespectful. Meetings are structured with predefined agendas, and discussions are expected to stay on topic. Decisions are made after thorough analysis and consensus.

Professional dress code

Attire is generally conservative and formal, with dark suits common in corporate environments. In sectors like IT, dress codes may be more relaxed but maintaining a neat and professional appearance is advisable.

National holidays

Employees are entitled to the following paid public holidays that are collectively recognized in all provinces: 

• Jan. 1: New Year's Day (Neujahr) 
• Good Friday (Karfreitag) 
• Easter Monday (Ostermontag),  
• May 1: Labor Day (Tag der Arbeit) 
• Ascension (Christi Himmelfahrt)
• Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag)
• Oct. 3: German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit)
• Dec. 25: Christmas (Erster Weihnachtstag)
• Dec. 26: Second Day of Christmas (Zweiter Weihnachtstag)  

There are also holidays specific to individual provinces. 

Employees are not entitled to extra pay if they are required to work on a public holiday, but they are entitled to a day of rest as compensation.