Professional team laughing during a friendly business meeting. Professional team laughing during a friendly business meeting.

Mastering US Business Etiquette: Essential Elements

Understanding the cultural nuances and business etiquette in the US can be pivotal for success. We gathered insights from CEOs and marketing experts, among others, to share their perspectives. From prioritizing positive body language to the importance of engaging in small talk, explore the top ten cultural norms and business etiquettes that these professionals deem crucial when doing business in America.

  • Prioritize Positive Body Language
  • Respect Time Punctuality
  • Embrace American Individualism
  • Practice Active Listening
  • Navigate Diverse Communication Styles
  • Master Proper Greetings
  • Keep Efficiency in Business Interactions
  • Respect Personal Space Boundaries
  • Adhere to Formal Dress Codes
  • Engage in Small Talk

Prioritize Positive Body Language

Alex Mastin, CEO and Founder, Home Grounds

Alex Mastin, CEO and Founder, Home Grounds - business etiquette

I think that the one thing you need to prioritize regarding business etiquette is body language. This is especially true for any conferences or events that are held remotely.

This is a really important way of showing that you are engaged, but it also helps you. Having good body language works both ways, reflecting to the speaker that you are listening, but also helping you to actually take information in. A simple nod or an enthused facial expression signals to your brain that this information is important, and also gives the speaker more confidence. This confidence also benefits you, as the meeting becomes much more engaging for everyone.

I point out remote meetings specifically because these meetings lack physical presence. This usually instantly gives speakers a sense of engagement, but this can be difficult online. Make sure your room is well-lit and enough of you is visible so that they can see that you are engaged.

Respect Time Punctuality

Kate Cherven, Marketing Specialist, United Site Services

Kate Cherven, Marketing Specialist, United Site Services

Being respectful of time is one of the most important things to consider when trying to conduct business in the U.S. The old saying “if you’re not early, you’re late” does have some truth to it. 

When meeting for an interview or a client meeting, for example, you should always try to make it a little bit early, just to show that you are prompt and respectful of time. Try to never be late, and if you happen to run late, make sure to communicate that as soon as possible.

Embrace American Individualism

David Bui, Director and Business Specialist, David Bui

David Bui, Director and Business Specialist, David Bui

Individualism is a fundamental aspect of business culture in the U.S. The American business environment encourages self-reliance and personal initiative. Individuals are often expected to be self-sufficient, able to make decisions and solve problems independently. 

This aspect of individualism expects everyone to contribute their unique perspectives, fostering a culture of innovation and forward-thinking. Understanding this can help in successfully navigating business interactions in the U.S.

Practice Active Listening

Josh Ladick, President, GSA Focus

Josh Ladick, President, GSA Focus

In US business culture, active listening is a paramount cultural norm. It’s essential to not only express your thoughts but also to genuinely listen to others. This means giving full attention, making eye contact, and providing thoughtful responses during meetings or negotiations. 

This practice fosters effective communication, builds trust, and demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives. Incorporating active listening into business interactions is a unique and valuable aspect of US business etiquette that I consider essential for successful collaboration and relationship-building.

Grace Chisom, Marketing Manager, Check CPS

Grace Chisom, Marketing Manager, Check CPS

When doing business in the US, it is crucial to understand that the American workforce is made up of different varieties of cultures, and that the blending of these cultures results in a slightly informal, yet quite professional and direct form of communication.

The truth is, most individuals tend to be quite casual and a little extra friendly, but this doesn’t mean that they are unprofessional or have less regard for privacy; in fact, it simply makes them better team players. While others lean more on the side of being reserved and would, in fact, demand that they be addressed by their professional titles.

It is very vital to consider that, by virtue of being the world’s melting pot, there is an increased possibility that when doing business here, you may likely never find a one-size-fits-all approach to communicating with potential employees, partners, and even potential customers. Nevertheless, going straight to the point would always be effective.

Master Proper Greetings

Mark Buskuhl, Founder and CEO, Ninebird Properties

Mark Buskuhl, Founder and CEO, Ninebird Properties

When doing business in the US, one important cultural norm to consider is greetings and introductions. In American culture, it is customary to shake hands with a firm grip when meeting someone for the first time or in a professional setting. It is also common to make eye contact and smile during greetings as a sign of respect and friendliness. 

Additionally, it is important to introduce yourself with your full name and job title. This shows professionalism and helps establish credibility in the business setting. Making a good first impression through proper greetings and introductions can go a long way in building positive relationships with American colleagues or potential business partners.

Keep Efficiency in Business Interactions

Ashwin Ramesh, CEO, Synup

Ashwin Ramesh, CEO, Synup

I have done business both back in my home country and in the United States. One thing I have noticed is that you shouldn’t waste time. As businessmen, we believe that time is money, and the same applies to business dealings in the U.S. However, in the U.S., it takes on a different level. Despite being seen as laid-back types of people, this is not to be confused with their professional personas.

Efficiency is very important when doing business. You need to be quick with your introductions, firm with your handshakes, and add a polite smile.

One of the key factors of being efficient is making sure that your pitch is short and to the point, and consists of all the information that is needed for them to make an educated decision.

This requires the use of business cards, an elevator pitch, and ensuring that you are properly attired in formal or business wear when conducting deals.

With these few simple notes to keep at the back of your mind, you will be able to handle business in the U.S. with much more ease.

Respect Personal Space Boundaries

Michael Chen, Head of Growth, Notta

Michael Chen, Head of Growth, Notta

Understanding and respecting personal space is crucial in U.S. business etiquette. Americans generally prefer to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and interactions. 

Invading someone’s personal space can make them feel uncomfortable and can negatively impact the business relationship. It is important to be mindful of personal boundaries and to maintain an appropriate physical distance to promote a professional environment.

Adhere to Formal Dress Codes

Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms

Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms

The extremely formal method of dress in the office is noteworthy. My company is dual-headquartered in Romania and New York, so one insight I’ve gained from this is that even when left to their own devices without a formalized dress code, people tend to dress more formally in the US than they do in Europe. 

Going for a meeting in anything other than a suit seems to be virtually not done, whereas in Europe, things tend to be a little bit looser, so long as you still look neat and professional.

Engage in Small Talk

Erik Wright, CEO, New Horizon Home Buyers

Erik Wright, CEO, New Horizon Home Buyers

In the US business landscape, the practice of “small talk” is a cultural norm that holds significance. Engaging in casual conversations before diving into business matters is seen as a way to establish rapport and build relationships. 

It’s crucial to be open to discussing topics like the weather, sports, or current events to create a comfortable atmosphere. Recognizing the importance of small talk and using it to connect on a personal level can greatly impact the success of business interactions in the US, making it a key aspect of business etiquette to consider.

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