Germans like to shake hands and the atmosphere at business meetings is quite formal and serious. Making ironic comments or telling jokes is unlikely to win you any points. Phone etiquette is also formal: always remember to identify yourself by your full name and your company when calling an office. Don’t call anyone by their first name unless you already know them quite well. In fact, it’s usually best to wait until they’ve given you 'permission’ or called you by your first name. Dress up for corporate meetings, although in most offices employees dress far more casually than they would in Britain. However, in creative industries like music, art and fashion people are much more relaxed, especially in Berlin. For detailed information on German business customs, visit www.german-business-etiquette.com.