German for Business or Geschäftsdeutsch (Business German) is a professional form of German, used in formal settings or workplaces. Business German is very important to interact with business partners and colleagues at work. If you are someone who has a business in Germany, or someone who wants to sell a product /business in Germany, you should be able to communicate in German and not any other language. It increases your job opportunities at home and abroad because Germany’s economic strength equals business opportunities. Proficiency in German and all the communication skills you develop by learning German can help you function productively in the global business environment. It also improves your relationships and thereby increases your chances for effective communication, success, and profit. 

The former German chancellor, Willy Brandt, once said, “If I’m selling to you, I speak your language. If I’m buying, Dann müssen Sie Deutsch sprechen [then you have to speak German]”. This means that if you want to do any kind of business in Germany, you can’t do it without knowing Business German and its etiquettes.

Some facts about Germany’s economy and business sector – 

• German investment in the United States exceeds $210 billion.
• U.S. investment in Germany in 2008 was 111 billion Euros.
• Germany is the largest European trading partner of the U.S., with more than 750 American firms doing business there.
• Germany is the third-largest trading partner of the U.S. in the world.
• German investment in the United States exceeds $210 billion.
• U.S. investment in Germany in 2008 was 111 billion Euros.
• Germany is the largest European trading partner of the U.S., with more than 750 American firms doing business there.
• Germany is the third-largest trading partner of the U.S. in the world.

Business German is also very important when it comes to dealing with bureaucratic processes in Germany. From registering a new address (anmelden—see below) to organizing a German visa, there are loads of situations in everyday life that will require your best professional German. But don’t worry, it is not that complicated as it sounds, Business German and German are the same languages. If you already know German, it won’t be difficult for you to familiarise yourself with Business German. There are only some simple things to take care of, let’s look at some ways you should learn German if it’s for business purposes.

• Know the difference between sie and du

Sie and du are both different forms of the word ‘You’ in English. Du is used for our family or friends, so it is an informal word for you. Whereas, sie is used in professional settings. Mainly, if you know someone, you will address them as du and if you don’t know someone personally but officially, then you will address them as sie. In the workplace, people often address their heads or colleagues as sie. 

• Read Newspapers 

Newspapers are effective in knowing how business German is used because newspapers follow a professional tone. Make it a habit to read the German newspaper every day to stay updated on all the latest information about business, finance, economy, etc. 

• Watch shows set in a professional environment 

Visualizing is the best way of learning something and watching shows and movies is also not boring. So, go find a movie that has a professional story and binge it. One great example is “Stromberg,” the German version of “The Office”. You could watch similar shows and movies or even interviews on YouTube. This will give you some real insights into the business world. 

• Writing your Lebenslauf (resume) 

Resume writing is a must in the professional world. You probably have a great resume on your table, but have you tried writing it in German, according to German standards? If not then you should. German-speaking countries don’t have the same school system and qualifications, so you might have to explain a bit more fully about what it is you’ve studied. 

• Use podcasts and online resources to take lessons. 

Podcasts are a great way to learn the professional side of the German language. Apart from that, you have so many resources available online that can help you learn business German. Some of them are the German pod 101, Learn German online, and many more. 

• Practice with a partner

 Practicing is very important, so for example, if you have a colleague at your workplace who is also your good friend, he/she can help you get a good command of professional German speaking skills.