10 Essential Phrases for Your First German Meeting
Make a confident first impression with these must-know German business phrases
Walking into your first German business meeting can be intimidating. The good news? With just a handful of key phrases, you can demonstrate respect for German culture and make a strong professional impression.
Important: Formal vs. Informal
The Essential 10 Phrases
1. Greeting
"Guten Tag, mein Name ist [Name]. Freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen."
Good day, my name is [Name]. Pleased to meet you.
2. Introducing Your Role
"Ich bin [Position] bei [Company]."
I am [Position] at [Company].
3. Thanking for the Meeting
"Vielen Dank für Ihre Zeit heute."
Thank you very much for your time today.
4. Asking for Clarification
"Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?"
Could you please repeat that?
5. Expressing Agreement
"Da bin ich ganz Ihrer Meinung."
I completely agree with you.
6. Making a Suggestion
"Darf ich einen Vorschlag machen?"
May I make a suggestion?
7. Asking for Opinions
"Was halten Sie davon?"
What do you think about that?
8. Scheduling Next Steps
"Wann passt es Ihnen am besten?"
When suits you best?
9. Apologizing for Language
"Entschuldigen Sie bitte mein Deutsch."
Please excuse my German.
10. Closing the Meeting
"Vielen Dank für das produktive Gespräch."
Thank you for the productive conversation.
Pronunciation Tip
“Even basic German shows respect and effort. My German colleagues always appreciate when international team members try to speak their language.”
Cultural Tips for German Meetings
- Be punctual - Arriving even 5 minutes late is considered rude
- Prepare thoroughly - Germans value preparation and data-driven discussions
- Use titles - Address people as Herr/Frau + last name unless invited otherwise
- Be direct - Germans appreciate straightforward communication
- Follow up in writing - Document decisions and next steps via email
Common Questions
Yes, a firm handshake with direct eye contact is standard in German business culture. Shake hands with everyone present, typically in order of seniority.
Absolutely. Most German professionals speak excellent English. Simply say 'Entschuldigung, darf ich auf Englisch weitermachen?' (Excuse me, may I continue in English?).
Keep emails formal with proper greetings (Sehr geehrte/r) and closings (Mit freundlichen Grüßen). Match the formality level used in the meeting.
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