SWISS AND GERMANS - SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES IN WORK-RELATED VALUES, ATTITUDES, AND BEHAVIOR

This paper examines two closely related cultures: Switzerland and Germany. Similarities and differences in values, attitudes, behavior, language usage and skills, communication and conflict solving style are presented; and the impact on work related behavior discussed. One aim is to provide practical information and advice for foreigners working with Swiss and Germans. A second objective is to present these two countries as an example of the hypothesis that differences among neighboring nations with similar cultures may be underestimated and increase the risk of cultural clash. An analysis of culture-common and culture-specific perceptions and attributions can be a useful tool to reduce this risk. Although the Swiss/German similarities and contrasts are presented as static generalizations, the reader must keep in mind real-life individual and regional variation and the risk of stereotyping. A selection of empirical studies, interviews and the experience of the author as an intercultural trainer and consultant serve as the foundation of this article.