Meeting the needs of an increasingly aware and diverse audience, Patrick Schmidt's book "Understanding American and German Business Cultures" is now in its third edition and the German version, "Die amerikanische and die deutsche Wirtschaftskultur im Vergleich" is in its fourth. The book analyses the unique problems of German-U.S. business relations and has become a standard reference work in both American and German companies and universities.

Book Description:

The key to addressing potential culture clashes between German and American companies is understanding their cultural contexts. Understanding American and German Business Cultures provides excellent practical information and strategies for eliminating the risks that differences in culture can cause for business.

In seven chapters, you will discover the unspoken values and "hidden logic" of German and American cultures, historical analysis of the two psychologies, basic business assumptions, perceptual differences of the manager's role, the different communication styles, business ethics and lawsuits and characteristics of the interculturally competent person. Interactive case studies and checklists confirm the main points. A reading list guides you to further learning.

Here's what people are saying about Understanding American and German Business Cultures:

"Finally a book that addresses -and really understands- the unique problems of German-U.S. business relations."
Wolfgang Hartung,
former CFO of Mercedes-Benz, North America

"Substantial information... Many descriptive examples are included and every chapter presents a distinctive and stimulating perspective to this important partnership-equation."
Werner Walbroel,
CEO German American Chamber of Commerce, NY

"A remarkable and profoundly original guide. This is a book that every person active in German-American business relations should read."
Dr. Max Otte,
Professor, Boston University and author of "Amerika für Geschäftsleutee"

Book review.pdf

"Die amerikanische und die deutsche Wirtschaftskultur im Vergleich"

Rezension Die Welt.pdf

Rezension Stadtmagazin.pdf

In Search of Intercultural Understanding

Discovering and learning about people in a new culture can be an exciting adventure. Yet, the many cultural faux pas that occur during foreign sejours can often be a challenge if we don’t possess intercultural sensitivity.

In a hands-on and visual approach, In Search of Intercultural Understanding offers new insights and practical advice on adjusting and coping with the experience abroad. With classical paintings and illustrations, quotations and exercises, the reader is presented with an easy-to-understanding survey of cross-cultural issues that will enhance the global experience and provide guidance on becoming intercultualy competent.