Course pre-requisite(s): minimum B1 level

Course Overview
The goal of this course is to introduce students to the English and German business culture and prepare them to use it confidently in different business situations. This course is taught in English and German. Given that Germany has one of the largest economies in the world, the knowledge of German language can significantly improve career
opportunities and is considered as an invaluable asset for people aiming international businesses. Considering the fact that in the German culture the formal style is of great importance, the emphasis will be on “training” the skills necessary for the
workplaces/business contexts not only in professional, but also in daily situations. The course also includes expanding English and German business vocabulary and specific terminology, as well as a number of short assignments and role plays designed to help students develop written and oral competences required within the business world.

Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, students should be able to:
✓ Expand English and German business and office vocabulary;
✓ Improve the formal writing style; identify differences in formal and informal register; german formal correspondence writing; phone/skype conversations
✓ Master the differences between written and spoken communications
✓ Become more confident while communicating during meetings, delivering
effective presentations, writing reports
✓ Deepen the understanding of English and German cultural issues related to work;

Course Content*
The following topics will be covered:
- English and German Business culture
- Duzen oder Siezen? – the proper use of German formal and informal „you“ register and personal titles
- Kind regards and Mit freundlichen Grüßen… Writing Business Correspondence: Writing business letters; Writing professional E-mails,
- Confirming and rejecting appointments, orders, reservations
- Writing a Lebenslauf (Resume) and a Bewerbungschreiben (Cover letter) in German
- Preparing and delivering oral presentations
- Saying “No” politely
- Offer invitations
- Small talk – the does and do's and don'ts in the English and German context
- Networking and Negotiating skills
* This schedule is subject to change. Changes will be announced in class.

Instructional Method
Due to the its workshop format, during the course students are expected to actively participate in-class practices and discussions, deliver oral presentation, and complete the written assignments.

Required Course Materials
A course packet will be handed to students before the beginning of the course.

Assessment
Active participation: 20 points
Oral presentation: 20 points
Home (and in-class) assignments: 20 points
Final Exam: 40 points