The choice between Duzen and Siezen in the workplace is a topic that has both historical roots and is subject to current developments. The decision for one or the other address reform influences the working atmosphere, hierarchies and communication within a company.
Historical development of shape and traditional rules
In German, the shape of “du” and “they” have existed for centuries. The “you” as a polite shape can be traced back to the 17th century and was originally used to express respect for higher people, as the ZDF reports in an online contribution. Over time, the “she” established itself as standard in formal contexts, while the “DU” was reserved for informal and familiar relationships.
Discover Kindle Unlimited and enjoy unlimited access to millions of e-books and thousands of audio books! Borrow up to 20 titles at the same time and read without deadlines. Use the 30-day test phase and find your next favorite books. Register now and read it!*
Traditionally in German business life, Siezen was considered standard, especially in formal industries such as finance or administration. Hierarchies were clearly shown by the Siezen, and that you were mostly reserved for personal relationships. However, a change has taken place in recent years: more and more companies, especially in creative and international industries, promote a DUZ culture to reduce hierarchies and create a more open work environment. According to a study by the Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, applicants feel more than modern and employee -oriented in job advertisements.
Advantages and disadvantages of the duzen
Duzen can facilitate communication and reduce barriers between employees and superiors. It promotes a feeling of togetherness and can help to integrate new employees faster. In addition, it often reflects a flatter hierarchy, which is sought in many modern companies. Claudia Marbach, expert in communication and organization, emphasizes in the article from ZDF: “Duzen creates closeness and breaks hierarchies.”
Despite the advantages mentioned, there are also potential disadvantages. Duzen can lead to inappropriate confidentiality and make it difficult to protect professional distance. In conflict situations or in criticism, duzen can complicate communication because the boundaries between the personal and professional level can blur. In addition, some employees feel uncomfortable with a DUZ culture, especially if they are forced.
Advantages and disadvantages of Siezen
Siezen keeps a professional distance and can help emphasize respect and courtesy in everyday work. It creates clear boundaries between different hierarchical levels and can be more appropriate in formal situations or traditional industries. In addition, some employees see Siezen as a sign of appreciation and professionalism.
On the other hand, Siezen can be perceived as distant and informal communication. It can make barriers between colleagues and the collaboration can make cooperation difficult, especially in teams that rely on close cooperation. In international teams in which English is the main language and the “You” no distinction between you and she knows, the adherence to the Siezen can lead to misunderstandings, as the Hanseatic Institute explains in an online contribution.
No more financial chaos: Finanzguru brings order to your money matters! Over 500,000 users already trust the smart financial app. Recognize savings potential, optimize contracts and keep an eye on expenses – everything in real time! Install now for free!*
Influence of the salutation on corporate culture
The chosen shape often reflects the corporate culture. A general “du” can signal flatter hierarchies and an open communication culture, while the “they” underlines more formal structures and traditional hierarchies. Companies like Ikea and Google have firmly anchored the “Du” in their corporate culture in order to promote a feeling of equality and openness, according to an online contribution by human resourcesmanager.de.
After all, there is no universal answer to the question of whether Duzen or Siezen is appropriate at work. Rather, the decision should depend on the corporate culture, the industry and the individual preferences of the employees. It is important that the chosen shape is used respectfully and that everyone involved feels good, as the expert Marbach finally recommends in the article by ZDF.
D. Maier / Redaktion Finanzen.net
*That means the asterisk: our news is objectively researched and created independently. So that our information is available free of charge, clicks are sometimes remunerated on links. We characterize these so -called affiliate links with an asterisk. Finance.net GmbH receives money, but never the author individually when readers click on such a link or conclude a contract with the provider. Whether finance.net GmbH receives a remuneration and to what extent has no influence on the product recommendations.
This text serves exclusively for information purposes and does not represent an investment recommendation. Finance.net GmbH excludes any regress entitlements. Authors, editors and the quoted sources are not liable for any losses caused by the purchase or sale of the securities or financial products mentioned in the articles.
Selected leverage products on Alphabet A (Ex Google)
With knock-outs, speculative investors can participate disproportionately in price movements. Simply choose the desired lever and we will show you suitable open-end products on Alphabet A (Ex Google)
The lever must be between 2 and 20
Advertising