100% agree (as a German). Being called the more formal "Sie" is sort-of standard when a stranger asks me for directions in the street - but being called Sie at

100% agree (as a German). Being called the more formal "Sie" is sort-of standard when a stranger asks me for directions in the street - but being called Sie at work would be a huge turn-off. It immediately projects the statement "and please wear a tie during work hours".