Language and Culture The U.S. is a cultural mosaic made up of people from different many ethnicities. While this contributes to the nation’s overall cultural heritage, there exist distinct geographical and regional cultural differences.
English is the language spoken across the U.S., but Spanish is spoken as well, especially in states near the border with Mexico and Florida. In addition, other languages are spoken in various places, such as Inuit in Alaska and Hawaiian in Hawaii. Recent immigrants speak more than 100 languages.
A fundamental element of American culture is egalitarianism or the concept of equality for all. American culture, although diverse, is bound together by its collective notion of equality. This concept is also evident in the strongly-developed recognition of individual effort, which is often referred to as the “American Dream.” It emphasizes ability and hard work as the means to home ownership and financial success. At the core of American culture are the virtues of personal achievement, independence, and self-reliance.
Americans are task oriented; the purpose of communication is to exchange information, facts, and opinions rather than to indulge in casual conversation. They have a direct style of speech and do not hesitate to speak openly and objectively, which can be disconcerting to others.
Doing Business in the U.S. If you are planning on conducting business in the U.S., with an American organisation, you will be expected to operate by the rules that your American business counterparts follow. For instance, they do not believe in double standards, and will clearly outline their expectations upfront. One expectation is that you will work with business women just as you do with businessmen. Americans place great emphasis on financial strength, business power, company policies, business procedures, and contracts that are legally binding. They consider negotiation as a tactic to problem solving, and will be as objective as possible and look for mutual benefits before signing a contract.
A firm handshake and direct eye contact demonstrate sincerity, which is a quality Americans value. Business cards are exchanged casually when people are introduced to associates in business environments.
Working in the U.S. Working relationships in America are built on personal competence, professionalism, and accountability in individual performances. The American work ethic is a highly competitive one and, in general, American employers and business people exhibit a high level of conformity to ethical practices. The American goal is to secure the best business deal, so they are not as keen as their Asian or European counterparts to establish personal relationships, although they do what is necessary to keep relationships smooth for the success of the business.
A typical workweek is from Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., however, working overtime to meet deadlines is very common. Americans are workaholics with a reputation of taking only a few days off annually. There are only four major holidays on which the majority of businesses in the United States will be closed. They are Christmas on December 25, New Year’s Day on January 1, the Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving (the third Thursday in November).
Structure and Hierarchy in American Companies America is known for its individualism and diversity so the organisation and structure of companies within the US can differ according to the industry, region, or company. Hierarchy in rank and status is very important to Americans, and the chain of command is more valuable than personal relationships or camaraderie at the workplace. The powers of decision-making and negotiations are vested with those at the top echelons of the hierarchy. The business environment is less formal than in Asian and European organisations, with colleagues addressing each other by first names irrespective of rank, except for Doctors (medical and Ph.D.s) who are usually addressed with the title.
Business Etiquette Punctuality is considered an essential part of business etiquette, and scheduled appointments or meetings commence and conclude at the appointed times. Failure to be punctual is seen as a sign of disrespect or inconsiderate behaviour. Americans are also unequivocal about deadlines and turnaround times, as they believe that time is money.
Although Americans are informal when it comes to addressing colleagues, it is better to include a title such as Mr., Ms. (“Mizz”) or Dr. when meeting them for the first time. Their tendency to dispense with formality emphasizes their unfussy approach to work and their sense of equality and fair play.
Politeness is as important to them as punctuality, and indulging briefly in a bit of small talk even during a very important meeting is considered essential to create a sense of friendliness and comfort.
Conclusion Business culture in the US differs in each corporation, industry, region, and business structure. Make sure you spend time researching the individual business culture of your American associates before scheduling your first meeting with them. Successful business alliances can be formed with U.S. organisations if you have a good grasp of their principles and working methods.
James Hudson is a freelance writer specialising in financial and business areas.
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