From what I know of Germans, they are typically on time, focused on work while at work, and then at the end of the day - they go home. . Businesses are closed on Sunday. Workers at restaurants, etc., get paid proper wages but they aren't given tips. Tax rates are higher so the government can afford to pay for health care and education. For a business owner in Germany, however, they are not dealing with workers wanting exceptions - they show up on time. They are serious and focused on work, not goofing off on their cell phones.