On a first-name Basis An Invitation to
communicate
at Eye Level

The uncomfortable Question and the constant weighing up of Options

You are probably familiar with the unpleasant situation that revolves around the question of who can and should offer the “du” to whom? It can also happen that you forget that you have already been on a first-name basis with someone - which can make the person feel like they have stepped on someone’s toes. That’s not great for anyone involved either.

The “Gladly per du” Note indicates that you may address the AGOLUTION Team Member on a first-name basis - if you wish

With us you can easily avoid such awkward situations as we offer you the “du” right from the start.

Of course, this is on a completely voluntary basis and is merely an offer from us to you. You decide!

The choice of course also applies to our employees: Those AGOLUTION team members who would like to be on a first-name basis, give you a hint in their email signature. You can recognize that someone from our team would like to be addressed with their first name by the “Gladly per du” note in the signature.

Communicate easily, openly and at Eye Level: the Advantages of “Gladly per du”

We have established this concept at AGOLUTION for the following reasons:

• Open and friendly communication: We want to promote communication where it is easier to address (even difficult) topics and where there is mutual respect at the same time.

• Avoid awkward situations: It is no longer necessary to tiptoe around the question and constantly weigh up “Sie” and “du”. Instead, the parties can communicate in a relaxed and uncomplicated way.

• Overcome hurdles: The more informal form of address allows communication at eye level. The parties are on the same level - regardless of status or hierarchies.

• Modern, international business world: The “du” fits in with the current times and the modern business world characterized by internationality.

International Comparison 🌎

In other countries, the question is an unknown problem. In the USA, for example, people generally address each other by their first names - and in Switzerland, this is usually also the case after a brief introductory phase.