CCM USA
Content
2009-2011
ASSIGNMENT
ON
´Cross Culture Managementµ
´United States of Americaµ
SUBMITTED TO: Prof Archana Mehra
SUBMITTED BY: Abhishek Singh MBA
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
BRIEF ON U.S.A The United States of America (commonly referred to as the United States, the U.S., the USA, or America) is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district. The country is situated mostly in central North America. At 3.79 million square miles (3.83millionkm2) and with about 307 million people, the United States is the third or fourth largest country by total area, and third largest by land area and by population. The Unites States is one of the World¶s most ethnically diverse and multinational nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries. The U.S. economy is the largest national economy in the world. The nation was founded by thirteen colonies of Great Britain located along the Atlantic seaboard. On July 4, 1776, they issued the Declaration of Independence. The USA in Figures Land Area Population: Population density: Life expectancy: Adult literacy: Average per household Divorces per1,000 : The Economy Currency: GDP: GDP per heads: Employment (% of total):
9, 372,600 sq km 297m 31 sq km Men 75 yrs Women 80 yrs 99% 2.6 4.8 US dollar US$11,712bn US$39,430 Agriculture 2% Industry 22% Services 76% Unemployed 6% Capital goods exculding vehicles Industrial supplies Consumer goods exculding vehicles Vehicles & products Food and beverages Consumer goods exculding vehicles Capital goods exculding vehicles Industrial supplies.
Main Exports:Type:
Main Imports:Type:
CULTURE AND CUSTOMS
Getting in Line ± Always get in line and wait your turn when buying tickets, waiting in a bank, post office or for a bus or train. It is considered rude to cut in line, and although people may not say anything to you, they will make very unhappy noises! If there is any confusion about whether there is one line or more for several different cashiers, you should still wait your turn and stay behind everyone who arrived before you. Americans do not try to get to the front first; they are very fair. You will often hear people saying µWho¶s next?¶ The general rule is that you are next if you were the first person to have gotten in line!
Women ± Women in the U.S. are seen as equal to men, and should be treated fairly. It is normal for men and women to do an equal share of the household tasks and childcare. This may not be the case in certain more traditional American families and every couple has their own arrangement. Safety for women: It is not a good idea for women to walk around on their own at night. Make sure that you use registered taxis and try to stay with a group as much as possible.
Meal times ± Most Americans eat three times a day. Breakfast can be a small meal of cereal, toast or some fruit, or a more substantial cooked breakfast of eggs, bacon or omelettes, according to preference. People in the U.S. usually eat a light lunch ± soup, sandwiches or a salad are the most common foods chosen for a weekday lunch. This is normally eaten between 12 and 2pm.
In the U.S., the evening meal is usually eaten between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. This is usually called µsupper¶ or µdinner.¶ It is normally a large meal, consisting of meat or fish and vegetables, a dish made with eggs, pasta or pizza.
Eating in restaurants Americans are very polite to waiters in restaurants. If you want a waiter to come to your table, you should raise your hand, but not snap your fingers. To attract their attention when they are close by, you should say µexcuse me.¶
American table manners and customs: If you put your knife and fork on your plate, a waiter will think that you have finished eating. If you want to take a break but have not yet finished, place your knife and fork by the side of your plate. A good waiter will not clear your plate from the table when you have finished eating. In the U.S., it is considered very bad manners to put your elbows on the table and to speak with your mouth full. It is also not polite to make a lot of noise when you eat; chewing noisily and slurping are bad manners in the U.S.
Eating in public ± In the U.S., it is acceptable behavior to eat, drink and chew gum in the street and on public transport. You should not eat in shops, banks, offices or in post offices.
Social behavior Personal space: You should not stand too close to people when you talk to them. Americans people find this uncomfortable.
Meeting and Greeting: Most people shake hands when they meet for the first time or in a formal situation. When people are good friends, they will sometimes hug each other to say hello, goodbye or thank you.
Eye contact: In public, and particularly on public transport, people avoid making eye contact with strangers. Most people either read or look towards the ground slightly rather than at peoples¶ faces. People in America find it uncomfortable if they feel as though someone is watching them.
µExcuse Me¶ There are many occasions to use ³excuse me´ or ³sorry´ to be polite. Here are a few examples: We say µexcuse me¶ or µsorry¶ if we bump into someone, or if someone bumps into us We say µsorry?¶ when we haven¶t heard someone. µExcuse me¶ precedes any intrusive question e.g. µExcuse me, do you know if this train stops at Powell Street?¶ µExcuse me, do you have the time?¶ µExcuse me, is this seat free?¶ We sometimes say µexcuse me, please¶ when we want to attract someone¶s attention or we want them to move.
µPs and Qs¶ Children in the U.S. are often told to µmind their Ps and Qs¶ P is for Please and Q is for Thank you. Whenever you ask someone to do anything, you should say please, and whenever someone does something for you (even if it is part of their job) you should say µThank you.¶ Here are a few examples: When you get out of a taxi, you should always say thank you to the driver. You should say thank you to a waiter when they give you your food. You should say thank you to a shopkeeper when they give you your change. When you are offered something you don¶t want you should never say no, you should always say no thank you or just thank you. You should say please when you ask the taxi driver to take you somewhere, µI¶d like to go to Pier 39 please.¶ You should say please to the waiter when you order your food, µI¶d like the salmon pasta please.¶ When you are offered something you want, the answer should never just be yes it should always be yes please.
American Management Style
American management style can be described as individualistic in approach, in so far as managers are accountable for the decisions made within their areas of responsibility. Although important decisions might be discussed in open forum, the ultimate responsibility for the consequences of the decision lies with the boss ² support or seeming consensus will evaporate when things go wrong. The up side of this accountability is, of course, the American dream that outstanding success will inevitably bring outstanding rewards. Therefore, American managers are more likely to disregard the opinions of subordinates than managers in other, more consensus or compromise- oriented cultures. This can obviously lead to frustrations, which can sometimes seem to boil over in meeting situations.
Being a Manager in United States
To ensure successful cross cultural management when working in the U.S., it is safest to treat all people with an equal amount of respect and deference (within the informal framework of America, in general), focus on schedules and maximizing time, and expect that people will want to be dealt with as individuals. In the U.S. there is a sense that all people in the organization have an important role to play and all are valued for their input. Therefore, managers consult employees to gather background information and often have them share in the decision-making process. The American working environment has changed drastically. With one eye on costs and the other on retention, employers are increasingly offering part-time or shared jobs, or outsourcing to external contractors. Change is constant as companies are restructured, work teams become "virtual," and flexible work arrangements become more common.
The Role of a Manager
Cross cultural communiciation will be more effective when working in United States when you remember that the most productive managers in United States recognize and value the specialized knowledge that employees at all levels bring. Employees expect to be consulted on decisions that affect them and the greater good of the organization.
Approach to Change
Cross cultural management is more likely to succeed if you understand that businesses in the U.S. have a high tolerance for risk and a ready acceptance for change. The underlying mindset is that change, while difficult, usually brings improvements and enhancements with it.
Approach to Time and Priorities
The U.S. is a controlled-time culture. Global and intercultural expansion has meant adherence to schedules is important and expected. Missing a deadline is a sign of poor management and inefficiency, and will shake people¶s confidence. Successful intercultural management will depend on the individual¶s ability to meet deadlines.
Decision Making
American managers are viewed as facilitators--people who help employees do their best work--and not simply decision makers. They empower employees and expect them to take responsibility. Employees freely cross management levels and speak directly to senior managers. This freedom is particularly apparent at meetings, where everyone in attendance is encouraged to participate openly.
Boss or Team Player
In The United States, groups collaborate well together as teams. Members are generally chosen to participate based on tangible skills or the knowledge base they bring, and are equally welcome to contribute to any discussion that may arise. They are encouraged to generate new ideas that may further the direction of the plan or spawn a new track entirely. In successful, dynamic teams, all members are valued for their actual and potential contribution, and all are treated with equal respect.
Communication and Negotiation Styles
The American negotiating style tends to be a "hard sell"²sometimes characterized as sledgehammer subtlety combined with missionary zeal. A strong pitch may sound boastful but is meant to inspire confidence and trust. It is also consistent with the penchant for logical reasoning, directness and comfort with self-promotion. American negotiators may have little familiarity with, or patience for, the formal business protocol, indirect communication style, or consensual decision-making practices of other countries (a fact that savvy international negotiators often use to their advantage). Their focus is on the short term and the "big picture" --securing the best deal in a timely manner. Their approach is informal, cordial and straightforward. The U.S. team will reveal its position and expect the other party to engage in a competitive bargaining process. If an impasse is reached, American tenacity, creativity, and persuasiveness will come to the fore. Despite the "hard sell" tactics, negotiating partners should not feel pressured into making a decision. The Americans expect their counterparts across the table to be similarly pragmatic and single-minded in trying to secure a favorable deal.
Top Tips on USA Business Culture
Americans value straight talking and 'getting to the point'. Respect is earned through conspicuous achievement rather than through age or background. Self-deprecation is often misunderstood by Americans as a sign of weakness. Sell your plus points. Humour is frequently used in business situations but is unlikely to be appreciated when matters become very tense. Remember that time is money in the States - wasting people's time through vagueness is lack of a sense of purpose which will not produce good results. Compromise is often sought - at the brink. This can often equate to the end of a quarter or financial year. Do not be offended by seemingly overly personal questions. Dress code in the States is very variable - check on the appropriate mode before departure. Short-termism is endemic. Structure proposals to emphasise quick wins rather than long-term objectives (although these should also be included.)
Office Environment & Work Culture in U.S.
In the United States, the work environment is professional and causal as well. Don't be surprised if you see people bring their pets to work! The work culture and dress code in U.S. is different. People prefer to dress casually (unless the company policy states otherwise), work schedules are flexible and overall the work atmosphere is informal.
Office Environment
The office environment is informal, and there is no apparent hierarchy between managers and their subordinates. Employees are treated as equals and independent views are welcomed. American work culture involves a lot of meetings. These meetings need not deal with big decisions, but are more like discussions, and are centered on analyzing, planning and reviewing of a project. Opinions and ideas are shared and objections are made. Water, aerated drinks, tea, coffee and vending machines are available at all offices.
Working hours
y
Working hours are flexible as far as IT companies are concerned. Normal office timings go from 9 AM to 5 PM. If you are a contractor, then you do need to maintain a minimum of 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. Results matter more than anything; you must be able to deliver the result. Contractors and temporary employees may have to fill up weekly time sheets, which are signed by their Manager. Few IT companies allow telecommuting where an employee can work from home, as and when required. Americans are very time conscious. They believe in the principles of time-management. They come to office early and leave on time. You will rarely find them working late hours, or on weekends. They plan their weekends ahead of time and value their privacy.
y
y
y
y
American Behavior
Generally, Americans are very polite, friendly and helpful, but have less tolerance for people who interfere in their private lives.
y y
y
They value their leisure time, health and hygiene. You may find it difficult to discuss everything with an American friend, at least, when you are getting to know each other. Exercising is important, and they usually go for aerobics, swimming, tennis or a jog a few times during the week. Dont be surprised if strangers greet you. Be polite and greet them back.
y
y
Do's & Don'ts
At work or elsewhere while talking, if you want to say yes, just say 'yes'. Don't nod your head up and down. Moving your head side to side is found to be very confusing, and it is mostly taken as 'no'.
y
y
Avoid talking in your native language in presence of people of other ethnicities in a social gathering. It is not courteous. Don't say, "I'll ring you back." or "I'll call you later". Here ring is the engagement ring, rather say "I'll call you, or buzz you". Don't call a black person a "Negro" or "Black", it is always polite to call them "African Americans". Also never call an "American Indian" as a "Red Indian", they get very offended. Do not walk or sit with arms around the shoulders of someone of the same sex. You may be mistaken to be a "Gay" or "a Lesbian". Don't say "the Phone was engaged", as engaged means getting engaged for marriage. Instead say "there was a busy tone". Don't walk/sit with arms around the shoulders, or too close of anybody
y
y
y
y
y
Business Meetings
Meetings are an integral part of corporate work culture in America. People tend to schedule lot of meetings to discuss and plan a variety of things. Meetings are usually started exactly on time. If the meeting request says 9 AM, it is sharply 9 AM. People will not wait for 10 min or 15 min because you are used to coming late or you are from a different work culture and have different perspective about time. Being on time is very important for meetings. The reality is, some people have other meetings right after your meeting, so be respectful to others time and be there exactly on time. Also, typically there may be people joining through teleconference, if they cannot make it to meeting or if they are in a different country. It can be very frustrating if you are the key person in meeting and you are late. Ending meeting on time is also very important because of others team members may be booked for back to back meetings. If you are the organizer of meeting, make sure you plan it well and wrap up on time. People usually do a time check 10 min before ending time and review everything.
Appearance
Business suit and tie are appropriate in all major cities. Wear dark colored business suits in classic colors of gray and navy. For an important formal meeting, choose a white dress shirt, for less formal a light blue shirt will still give you a conservative appearance. Women should wear a suit or dress with jacket in major cities. Wearing classic clothing and classic colors of navy, gray, ivory, and white will ensure you give a confident and conservative appearance. Rural areas and areas with extremely warm summers have more informal wardrobe requirements. Women may wear a business dress, or skirt and blouse, in rural areas. Men may conduct business without wearing a jacket and/or tie in rural areas.
The formality of a meeting, even in rural areas, may dictate a sports jacket and tie for men. The same formality will require a woman to wear a dress, possibly with a jacket. Casual clothing is appropriate when not attending a work related meeting/dinner. Building a casual wardrobe using classic lines and colors (navy, gray, camel, ivory and white) will give you a look that is stylish and professional even when you are relaxing. Clothing, whether formal or casual, should be clean and neat in appearance. Men may generally wear jeans or khaki pants with a shirt for casual attire. Women may wear comfortably fitting slacks with a casual shirt. Wearing jeans or shorts, even in a casual setting, may be inappropriate for the city. It is better to err on the conservative side if you are not sure.
Behavior
Business conversation may take place during meals. However, many times you will find more social conversation taking place during the actual meal. Business meetings may be arranged as breakfast meetings, luncheon meetings, or dinner meetings depending on time schedules and necessity. Generally a dinner, even though for business purposes, is treated as a social meal and a time to build rapport. Gift giving is discouraged or limited by many US companies. A gracious written note is always appropriate and acceptable. If you do give a gift, it should not appear to be a bribe. An invitation for a meal or a modest gift is usually acceptable. If you are someplace with a line or queue, go to the end and wait your turn. Do not use or chew on a toothpick in public.
Many public places and private homes do not allow smoking. In some areas laws have been passed to prevent smoking in public places.
Communications
Offer a firm handshake, lasting 3-5 seconds, upon greeting and leaving. Maintain good eye contact during your handshake. If you are meeting several people at once, maintain eye contact with the person you are shaking hands with, until you are moving on the next person. Good eye contact during business and social conversations shows interest, sincerity and confidence. Good friends may briefly embrace, although the larger the city, usually the more formal the behavior. Introductions include one's title if appropriate, or Mr., Ms, Mrs. and the full name. Business cards are generally exchanged during introductions. However, they may be exchanged when one party is leaving. A smile is a sign of friendliness, and in rural areas you may be greeted with a "hello" rather than a handshake. Ask permission to smoke before lighting a cigarette or cigar. Due to health concerns, you may or may not be given permission.
E TIQUETTE Personal comportment often appears crass, loud, and effusive to people from other cultures, but Americans value emotional and bodily restraint. The permanent smile and unrelenting enthusiasm of the stereotypical American may mask strong emotions whose expression is not acceptable. Bodily restraint is expressed through the relatively large physical distance people maintain with each other, especially men. Breast-feeding, yawning, and passing gas in public are considered rude. Americans consider it impolite to talk about money and age.
Conclusion
Different cultures bring different sensibilities, values and expectations. In many cases, these various world views affect perceptions as to how business is ethically and respectfully conducted. Knowledge of specific courtesies, protocols and business logic add fluency to these relations and enhance potential partnerships
Cross culture management is about dealing with people from other culture in a way that minimizes misunderstanding and maximizes our potential to create strong cross culture relationships.
ASSIGNMENT
ON
´Cross Culture Managementµ
´United States of Americaµ
SUBMITTED TO: Prof Archana Mehra
SUBMITTED BY: Abhishek Singh MBA
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
BRIEF ON U.S.A The United States of America (commonly referred to as the United States, the U.S., the USA, or America) is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district. The country is situated mostly in central North America. At 3.79 million square miles (3.83millionkm2) and with about 307 million people, the United States is the third or fourth largest country by total area, and third largest by land area and by population. The Unites States is one of the World¶s most ethnically diverse and multinational nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries. The U.S. economy is the largest national economy in the world. The nation was founded by thirteen colonies of Great Britain located along the Atlantic seaboard. On July 4, 1776, they issued the Declaration of Independence. The USA in Figures Land Area Population: Population density: Life expectancy: Adult literacy: Average per household Divorces per1,000 : The Economy Currency: GDP: GDP per heads: Employment (% of total):
9, 372,600 sq km 297m 31 sq km Men 75 yrs Women 80 yrs 99% 2.6 4.8 US dollar US$11,712bn US$39,430 Agriculture 2% Industry 22% Services 76% Unemployed 6% Capital goods exculding vehicles Industrial supplies Consumer goods exculding vehicles Vehicles & products Food and beverages Consumer goods exculding vehicles Capital goods exculding vehicles Industrial supplies.
Main Exports:Type:
Main Imports:Type:
CULTURE AND CUSTOMS
Getting in Line ± Always get in line and wait your turn when buying tickets, waiting in a bank, post office or for a bus or train. It is considered rude to cut in line, and although people may not say anything to you, they will make very unhappy noises! If there is any confusion about whether there is one line or more for several different cashiers, you should still wait your turn and stay behind everyone who arrived before you. Americans do not try to get to the front first; they are very fair. You will often hear people saying µWho¶s next?¶ The general rule is that you are next if you were the first person to have gotten in line!
Women ± Women in the U.S. are seen as equal to men, and should be treated fairly. It is normal for men and women to do an equal share of the household tasks and childcare. This may not be the case in certain more traditional American families and every couple has their own arrangement. Safety for women: It is not a good idea for women to walk around on their own at night. Make sure that you use registered taxis and try to stay with a group as much as possible.
Meal times ± Most Americans eat three times a day. Breakfast can be a small meal of cereal, toast or some fruit, or a more substantial cooked breakfast of eggs, bacon or omelettes, according to preference. People in the U.S. usually eat a light lunch ± soup, sandwiches or a salad are the most common foods chosen for a weekday lunch. This is normally eaten between 12 and 2pm.
In the U.S., the evening meal is usually eaten between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. This is usually called µsupper¶ or µdinner.¶ It is normally a large meal, consisting of meat or fish and vegetables, a dish made with eggs, pasta or pizza.
Eating in restaurants Americans are very polite to waiters in restaurants. If you want a waiter to come to your table, you should raise your hand, but not snap your fingers. To attract their attention when they are close by, you should say µexcuse me.¶
American table manners and customs: If you put your knife and fork on your plate, a waiter will think that you have finished eating. If you want to take a break but have not yet finished, place your knife and fork by the side of your plate. A good waiter will not clear your plate from the table when you have finished eating. In the U.S., it is considered very bad manners to put your elbows on the table and to speak with your mouth full. It is also not polite to make a lot of noise when you eat; chewing noisily and slurping are bad manners in the U.S.
Eating in public ± In the U.S., it is acceptable behavior to eat, drink and chew gum in the street and on public transport. You should not eat in shops, banks, offices or in post offices.
Social behavior Personal space: You should not stand too close to people when you talk to them. Americans people find this uncomfortable.
Meeting and Greeting: Most people shake hands when they meet for the first time or in a formal situation. When people are good friends, they will sometimes hug each other to say hello, goodbye or thank you.
Eye contact: In public, and particularly on public transport, people avoid making eye contact with strangers. Most people either read or look towards the ground slightly rather than at peoples¶ faces. People in America find it uncomfortable if they feel as though someone is watching them.
µExcuse Me¶ There are many occasions to use ³excuse me´ or ³sorry´ to be polite. Here are a few examples: We say µexcuse me¶ or µsorry¶ if we bump into someone, or if someone bumps into us We say µsorry?¶ when we haven¶t heard someone. µExcuse me¶ precedes any intrusive question e.g. µExcuse me, do you know if this train stops at Powell Street?¶ µExcuse me, do you have the time?¶ µExcuse me, is this seat free?¶ We sometimes say µexcuse me, please¶ when we want to attract someone¶s attention or we want them to move.
µPs and Qs¶ Children in the U.S. are often told to µmind their Ps and Qs¶ P is for Please and Q is for Thank you. Whenever you ask someone to do anything, you should say please, and whenever someone does something for you (even if it is part of their job) you should say µThank you.¶ Here are a few examples: When you get out of a taxi, you should always say thank you to the driver. You should say thank you to a waiter when they give you your food. You should say thank you to a shopkeeper when they give you your change. When you are offered something you don¶t want you should never say no, you should always say no thank you or just thank you. You should say please when you ask the taxi driver to take you somewhere, µI¶d like to go to Pier 39 please.¶ You should say please to the waiter when you order your food, µI¶d like the salmon pasta please.¶ When you are offered something you want, the answer should never just be yes it should always be yes please.
American Management Style
American management style can be described as individualistic in approach, in so far as managers are accountable for the decisions made within their areas of responsibility. Although important decisions might be discussed in open forum, the ultimate responsibility for the consequences of the decision lies with the boss ² support or seeming consensus will evaporate when things go wrong. The up side of this accountability is, of course, the American dream that outstanding success will inevitably bring outstanding rewards. Therefore, American managers are more likely to disregard the opinions of subordinates than managers in other, more consensus or compromise- oriented cultures. This can obviously lead to frustrations, which can sometimes seem to boil over in meeting situations.
Being a Manager in United States
To ensure successful cross cultural management when working in the U.S., it is safest to treat all people with an equal amount of respect and deference (within the informal framework of America, in general), focus on schedules and maximizing time, and expect that people will want to be dealt with as individuals. In the U.S. there is a sense that all people in the organization have an important role to play and all are valued for their input. Therefore, managers consult employees to gather background information and often have them share in the decision-making process. The American working environment has changed drastically. With one eye on costs and the other on retention, employers are increasingly offering part-time or shared jobs, or outsourcing to external contractors. Change is constant as companies are restructured, work teams become "virtual," and flexible work arrangements become more common.
The Role of a Manager
Cross cultural communiciation will be more effective when working in United States when you remember that the most productive managers in United States recognize and value the specialized knowledge that employees at all levels bring. Employees expect to be consulted on decisions that affect them and the greater good of the organization.
Approach to Change
Cross cultural management is more likely to succeed if you understand that businesses in the U.S. have a high tolerance for risk and a ready acceptance for change. The underlying mindset is that change, while difficult, usually brings improvements and enhancements with it.
Approach to Time and Priorities
The U.S. is a controlled-time culture. Global and intercultural expansion has meant adherence to schedules is important and expected. Missing a deadline is a sign of poor management and inefficiency, and will shake people¶s confidence. Successful intercultural management will depend on the individual¶s ability to meet deadlines.
Decision Making
American managers are viewed as facilitators--people who help employees do their best work--and not simply decision makers. They empower employees and expect them to take responsibility. Employees freely cross management levels and speak directly to senior managers. This freedom is particularly apparent at meetings, where everyone in attendance is encouraged to participate openly.
Boss or Team Player
In The United States, groups collaborate well together as teams. Members are generally chosen to participate based on tangible skills or the knowledge base they bring, and are equally welcome to contribute to any discussion that may arise. They are encouraged to generate new ideas that may further the direction of the plan or spawn a new track entirely. In successful, dynamic teams, all members are valued for their actual and potential contribution, and all are treated with equal respect.
Communication and Negotiation Styles
The American negotiating style tends to be a "hard sell"²sometimes characterized as sledgehammer subtlety combined with missionary zeal. A strong pitch may sound boastful but is meant to inspire confidence and trust. It is also consistent with the penchant for logical reasoning, directness and comfort with self-promotion. American negotiators may have little familiarity with, or patience for, the formal business protocol, indirect communication style, or consensual decision-making practices of other countries (a fact that savvy international negotiators often use to their advantage). Their focus is on the short term and the "big picture" --securing the best deal in a timely manner. Their approach is informal, cordial and straightforward. The U.S. team will reveal its position and expect the other party to engage in a competitive bargaining process. If an impasse is reached, American tenacity, creativity, and persuasiveness will come to the fore. Despite the "hard sell" tactics, negotiating partners should not feel pressured into making a decision. The Americans expect their counterparts across the table to be similarly pragmatic and single-minded in trying to secure a favorable deal.
Top Tips on USA Business Culture
Americans value straight talking and 'getting to the point'. Respect is earned through conspicuous achievement rather than through age or background. Self-deprecation is often misunderstood by Americans as a sign of weakness. Sell your plus points. Humour is frequently used in business situations but is unlikely to be appreciated when matters become very tense. Remember that time is money in the States - wasting people's time through vagueness is lack of a sense of purpose which will not produce good results. Compromise is often sought - at the brink. This can often equate to the end of a quarter or financial year. Do not be offended by seemingly overly personal questions. Dress code in the States is very variable - check on the appropriate mode before departure. Short-termism is endemic. Structure proposals to emphasise quick wins rather than long-term objectives (although these should also be included.)
Office Environment & Work Culture in U.S.
In the United States, the work environment is professional and causal as well. Don't be surprised if you see people bring their pets to work! The work culture and dress code in U.S. is different. People prefer to dress casually (unless the company policy states otherwise), work schedules are flexible and overall the work atmosphere is informal.
Office Environment
The office environment is informal, and there is no apparent hierarchy between managers and their subordinates. Employees are treated as equals and independent views are welcomed. American work culture involves a lot of meetings. These meetings need not deal with big decisions, but are more like discussions, and are centered on analyzing, planning and reviewing of a project. Opinions and ideas are shared and objections are made. Water, aerated drinks, tea, coffee and vending machines are available at all offices.
Working hours
y
Working hours are flexible as far as IT companies are concerned. Normal office timings go from 9 AM to 5 PM. If you are a contractor, then you do need to maintain a minimum of 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. Results matter more than anything; you must be able to deliver the result. Contractors and temporary employees may have to fill up weekly time sheets, which are signed by their Manager. Few IT companies allow telecommuting where an employee can work from home, as and when required. Americans are very time conscious. They believe in the principles of time-management. They come to office early and leave on time. You will rarely find them working late hours, or on weekends. They plan their weekends ahead of time and value their privacy.
y
y
y
y
American Behavior
Generally, Americans are very polite, friendly and helpful, but have less tolerance for people who interfere in their private lives.
y y
y
They value their leisure time, health and hygiene. You may find it difficult to discuss everything with an American friend, at least, when you are getting to know each other. Exercising is important, and they usually go for aerobics, swimming, tennis or a jog a few times during the week. Dont be surprised if strangers greet you. Be polite and greet them back.
y
y
Do's & Don'ts
At work or elsewhere while talking, if you want to say yes, just say 'yes'. Don't nod your head up and down. Moving your head side to side is found to be very confusing, and it is mostly taken as 'no'.
y
y
Avoid talking in your native language in presence of people of other ethnicities in a social gathering. It is not courteous. Don't say, "I'll ring you back." or "I'll call you later". Here ring is the engagement ring, rather say "I'll call you, or buzz you". Don't call a black person a "Negro" or "Black", it is always polite to call them "African Americans". Also never call an "American Indian" as a "Red Indian", they get very offended. Do not walk or sit with arms around the shoulders of someone of the same sex. You may be mistaken to be a "Gay" or "a Lesbian". Don't say "the Phone was engaged", as engaged means getting engaged for marriage. Instead say "there was a busy tone". Don't walk/sit with arms around the shoulders, or too close of anybody
y
y
y
y
y
Business Meetings
Meetings are an integral part of corporate work culture in America. People tend to schedule lot of meetings to discuss and plan a variety of things. Meetings are usually started exactly on time. If the meeting request says 9 AM, it is sharply 9 AM. People will not wait for 10 min or 15 min because you are used to coming late or you are from a different work culture and have different perspective about time. Being on time is very important for meetings. The reality is, some people have other meetings right after your meeting, so be respectful to others time and be there exactly on time. Also, typically there may be people joining through teleconference, if they cannot make it to meeting or if they are in a different country. It can be very frustrating if you are the key person in meeting and you are late. Ending meeting on time is also very important because of others team members may be booked for back to back meetings. If you are the organizer of meeting, make sure you plan it well and wrap up on time. People usually do a time check 10 min before ending time and review everything.
Appearance
Business suit and tie are appropriate in all major cities. Wear dark colored business suits in classic colors of gray and navy. For an important formal meeting, choose a white dress shirt, for less formal a light blue shirt will still give you a conservative appearance. Women should wear a suit or dress with jacket in major cities. Wearing classic clothing and classic colors of navy, gray, ivory, and white will ensure you give a confident and conservative appearance. Rural areas and areas with extremely warm summers have more informal wardrobe requirements. Women may wear a business dress, or skirt and blouse, in rural areas. Men may conduct business without wearing a jacket and/or tie in rural areas.
The formality of a meeting, even in rural areas, may dictate a sports jacket and tie for men. The same formality will require a woman to wear a dress, possibly with a jacket. Casual clothing is appropriate when not attending a work related meeting/dinner. Building a casual wardrobe using classic lines and colors (navy, gray, camel, ivory and white) will give you a look that is stylish and professional even when you are relaxing. Clothing, whether formal or casual, should be clean and neat in appearance. Men may generally wear jeans or khaki pants with a shirt for casual attire. Women may wear comfortably fitting slacks with a casual shirt. Wearing jeans or shorts, even in a casual setting, may be inappropriate for the city. It is better to err on the conservative side if you are not sure.
Behavior
Business conversation may take place during meals. However, many times you will find more social conversation taking place during the actual meal. Business meetings may be arranged as breakfast meetings, luncheon meetings, or dinner meetings depending on time schedules and necessity. Generally a dinner, even though for business purposes, is treated as a social meal and a time to build rapport. Gift giving is discouraged or limited by many US companies. A gracious written note is always appropriate and acceptable. If you do give a gift, it should not appear to be a bribe. An invitation for a meal or a modest gift is usually acceptable. If you are someplace with a line or queue, go to the end and wait your turn. Do not use or chew on a toothpick in public.
Many public places and private homes do not allow smoking. In some areas laws have been passed to prevent smoking in public places.
Communications
Offer a firm handshake, lasting 3-5 seconds, upon greeting and leaving. Maintain good eye contact during your handshake. If you are meeting several people at once, maintain eye contact with the person you are shaking hands with, until you are moving on the next person. Good eye contact during business and social conversations shows interest, sincerity and confidence. Good friends may briefly embrace, although the larger the city, usually the more formal the behavior. Introductions include one's title if appropriate, or Mr., Ms, Mrs. and the full name. Business cards are generally exchanged during introductions. However, they may be exchanged when one party is leaving. A smile is a sign of friendliness, and in rural areas you may be greeted with a "hello" rather than a handshake. Ask permission to smoke before lighting a cigarette or cigar. Due to health concerns, you may or may not be given permission.
E TIQUETTE Personal comportment often appears crass, loud, and effusive to people from other cultures, but Americans value emotional and bodily restraint. The permanent smile and unrelenting enthusiasm of the stereotypical American may mask strong emotions whose expression is not acceptable. Bodily restraint is expressed through the relatively large physical distance people maintain with each other, especially men. Breast-feeding, yawning, and passing gas in public are considered rude. Americans consider it impolite to talk about money and age.
Conclusion
Different cultures bring different sensibilities, values and expectations. In many cases, these various world views affect perceptions as to how business is ethically and respectfully conducted. Knowledge of specific courtesies, protocols and business logic add fluency to these relations and enhance potential partnerships
Cross culture management is about dealing with people from other culture in a way that minimizes misunderstanding and maximizes our potential to create strong cross culture relationships.
