Understanding work culture in Berlin
When starting out in a new city, it's really important to understand the work culture before your first day at a new job. Generally speaking, each company in Berlin establishes its own work culture, according to different values and how they think productivity can be fostered. With such a vast array of sectors in Berlin, you can expect work culture to differ a lot. The culture at a new tech startup isn't going to be the same as at a more traditional bank, and it's important you know what to expect.
Arriving in Berlin for work will require, first and foremost, to familiarise yourself with the local work culture and understand why things are expected to be done in a certain way, even though it may feel unusual or controversial. In this article, you will find tips on adapting to Berlin's work environment and helping your employer to make the most of your skills while you enjoy your living and working experience in Berlin!
Paid leave in Berlin
German companies are concerned with the work–life balance of their employees and provide as many benefits as possible in order to keep their employees happy and, therefore, motivated, creative, and productive. According to German employment law, an employee is allowed a minimum of 20 days of paid leave per year. However, each company is free to exceed this number, which in many cases reaches up to 30 days. In addition, employees are entitled to sick days, which can be taken without a letter from the doctor for up to two days (Germans tend to stay out of the office if they experience cold or flu symptoms). After 2 days, they will need a doctor's letter. Last but not least, maternity and paternity leave are well-supported by companies in Berlin, as taking time off for a new child is absolutely normal.
Good to know:
There are nine national public holidays (e.g., German Unity Day, New Year's Day, Christmas Day) per year in Germany. Plus, there are additional regional holidays that are particular to the state; for example, in Berlin, the 8th of March is a public holiday. Some German states enjoy up to 13 public holidays annually.
Work schedule in Berlin
Holidays, family life, and personal and leisure time are highly valued by German employers. However, when you are at work, you are expected to be motivated, productive, and focused — employers take action to keep employees happy, but in return, they require their dedication. In German companies and businesses, there is no such thing as a coffee break, where employees gather in groups for several cigarette or coffee breaks throughout the day in the kitchen or common areas. In other words, every minute counts, and your boss would not appreciate seeing you lingering in the kitchen or procrastinating by starting conversations with your colleagues about weekend plans. However, in newer startups, it's not uncommon for them to have “chill out” areas with ping pong, snooker, or other ways for you to take a quick break.
Good to know:
Germans are hard-working employees and sometimes arrive in the office very early in the morning, especially if they have children who have to be dropped off at school by 7:30 AM. Don't assume that if you come in at the office early in the morning, you are entitled to leave earlier too — although this is a very likely arrangement between you and your boss. In any case, it is something you have to discuss with your manager in advance and make the required arrangements with your team.
Communication with colleagues in Berlin
Berliners like structure at work and clear and pre-determined responsibilities, and therefore expectations — taking on new, unpredictable tasks or figuring out things along the way is far from their way of working. If you begin to learn the German language, you will understand more of the working culture and communication, which, similarly to the language, is direct, formal, and factful. For example, business communication is not based on personal feelings, theories, and assumptions but on data, detailed presentation of information, risk assessments, and many graphs and other visual representations. Also, it is expected that decision-making can be a long process, and several meetings and exchanges will be required. So, whether you have to make a proposal or take a decision, remember to be as frank and concrete as possible. Also, if you are a manager, the people who report to you will expect to receive clear guidance from you regarding their work, goals, and deadlines and will rely on you to answer their questions.
Good to know:
In Germany, open-plan offices are not very common in traditional working environments, which means that you will have your privacy at work, you aren't expected to make small talk, and you won't be distracted.
Office etiquette in Berlin
One important tip that we think will help you navigate the culture in Berlin in and outside the office is the distinction between honesty and impoliteness — the former shouldn't be mistaken with the latter. Berliners, and Germans, generally, will tell you what they have in mind flatly, without embellishing the truth, and they would appreciate it if you did the same. This is actually the basis for a good relationship, both professional and social. So, try not to take comments and feedback personally; nevertheless, make sure they are delivered in a constructive and humane manner. Also, remember punctuality (arriving ten minutes earlier for a meeting is common to give you time to set up, do the introductions, and start on time) and hierarchy (introduce people starting with the most senior person in the room and going down). Lastly, keep professional interactions formal and don't cross boundaries by shifting the conversation to personal matters, such as family or making body contact — a firm handshake and eye contact should be sufficient.
Good to know:
Work-appropriate clothes are neither too revealing nor too individualized. Shoes are particularly important in Berlin, meaning that you will attract negative attention if you are wearing old sneakers at work. Even if your office culture allows for a more relaxed dress code, it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
Personal life in Berlin
Berliners understand better than anyone the saying that goes “work hard, play hard” and they live up to its essence. When you are at work, you are expected to be at your 100 percent; however, after work hours, you are not expected to be checking your emails or working unpaid overtime. In this vein, time with family is highly valued, and your work should not be detrimental to your family life. Hence, even if your expat journey is taking you to Berlin merely for work purposes, remember to maintain a healthy balance and allow yourself to enjoy the city, as it has so much to offer!
