The Unwritten Rules of Life in Germany – What Expats Should Know

If you search YouTube for expat experiences in Germany, you’ll find countless videos about free health care, culture shocks, or the cost of living. But very few deal with something far more important for daily life: the unwritten rules that Germans treat as law.

This video is one of the rare exceptions. It highlights eight everyday rules – from punctuality, quietness in public, and eating etiquette to respect, tolerance, and avoiding certain sensitive topics. These may sound small, but if you ignore them, you will quickly feel out of place.

Understanding these rules helps visitors, expats, and business professionals alike. It allows you to avoid awkward moments, prevents misunderstandings, and most importantly, helps you see German behavior in context rather than as “strange” or “unfriendly.”

Despite bureaucracy and language barriers, Germany remains one of the most attractive places to live and do business. Knowing how Germans think and act gives you a head start – and builds trust from day one.

If you want to go deeper and understand how these cultural traits translate into business behavior, I offer tailored presentations and insights. You don’t have to change who you are – but having the right perspective helps you navigate Germany with confidence.