Career
Abroad is the ideal guide to facts on work culture abroad. Do's
and don'ts on etiquette, work ethics and conversational pleasantries,
find them all here.
Westward
Ho!
Off
to the land of opportunity! Settling in a new country can be a
rather unsettling experience. Not only do you have to adapt to
the climate, but also to a new country and a new job. You’ll need
to orient yourself to this shift right from the time you board
your flight! Here’s something to make your transit smooth.
Welcome
aboard!
On the flight, it pays to be courteous. Politely
ask the stewardess for whatever you need (pillow, blanket, food,
drink). Don’t
go overboard with the drinks. You’ll
end up being either sick or drunk- both equally bad for in-flight
travel. Remember to thank the stewardess at the end of the flight.
Greetings
Say “hi” to anyone who says “hi” (especially
to the check-out staff at groceries.) Americans generally greet
you, even if they don’t know you personally (so don’t get carried
away if that attractive stranger in the elevator smiles at you
and says hi”!) It’s just a way of life there.
Shake hands when you meet anyone, make eye contact,
smile and introduce yourself.
While parting, you’ll find most people saying, “ it was great
meeting you, take care of yourself.” Respond with “I will, you
take care of yourself too…” Don’t be surprised if someone puts
his hand on your shoulder when saying bye. It’s their way of
showing concern and interest in you.
Corporate culture
Americans are very egalitarian and you can be on a first name
basis with superiors, but first ask if it’s ok with them. If
not, say, “Sure. I can call you Mr.XYZ”.
As for subordinates, be sure to tell them that they can call
you by your first name. Even if you don’t tell them, they’ll
probably go ahead anyway- so don’t look shocked. Observe how
others greet or acknowledge other people, and follow suit.
In the American work culture, professionalism is highly valued.
Be punctual for appointments (business or social). Be friendly,
but firm when you’re dealing with co-workers or superiors. Don’t
shirk work or take liberties and don’t forgo your privileges
either. Americans value individuality. You’re not likely to
score any points by being a “yes-man”! You get paid for what
you contribute to the company. It’s a straight business deal-
The company benefits from you, and vice versa. As far as dress
is concerned, dress like everyone else, or one step (but not
more) above. For women who’re more comfortable in a sari- go
ahead. But be prepared for extra attention!
Treat women as equals. Never make any sexual remarks or innuendos
to women employees or to your boss. Corporate America takes
a very strict view of sexual harassment at the workplace.
Social etiquette
When you’re invited for a get-together, don’t take your spouse/kids
with you, unless its mentioned in the invitation. Ask what you
can bring. If the host doesn’t specifically ask for anything,
take some cookies/chocolates/wine along. Even if you’re not
very comfortable using a fork and knife, it’s better to learn
how to. Eating with your fingers will project a shoddy image
of you.
A few things to remember
In any fast food place, when you
order, they will ask you something that sounds like "heretogo."
They’re asking whether you’ll have it here or whether it should
be packed!
Never
ask personal questions about age, salary, etc…
Don’t treat Blacks/White/Other
races better or worse, treat everyone the same. Treat labourers/janitors,
blue collars workers with the same respect as you would treat
others.
Don't
ask for a rubber when you want an eraser. Rubber means a condom!
The way American women dress is
no indication of their morality. Treat them with the same respect
that you would give Indian women (assuming you do that back
home!)
When eating out, make it a point
to ask for small portions or you’ll have a tough time ploughing
through the huge serving.
If you ever keep anyone waiting,
apologise (even to a stranger who’s kept the elevator waiting
so that you can get into it.)
Don’t gasp if you’re offered a
buffalo sandwich! It just means that it is from Buffalo, New
York.
Americans like vibrant people.
So be enthusiastic and smile a lot!
Even though Americans may treat
you very casually, it’s better if you maintain some degree of
formality with them.
If Americans show curiosity about
your country or culture, be prepared to answer their questions
patiently.
Americans are generally easy-going people. So enjoy your trip
and have a great time!