Topics to avoid with an American:
Politics
Ethnic or Religious topics
Controversial topics like abortion, racism, sexism
All of the above
Small talk with an American:
Compliment (to start off)
Sports(baseball, football (not soccer) basketball and golf are top of the list)
Small talk and preliminaries are considered a waste of time during business discussions
The right way to start with respect to American Culture:
For the first time, use a title and their last name till you are told otherwise.
Expect to address most counterparts by given name rather than surname and title shortly after meeting them
The order of names is first name followed by middle name and then surname
The right way to start with respect to American Culture further ahead:
If you are not sure of a lady’s marital status, use Ms. (pronounced Miz).
Names may reflect cultural diversity. Do not be afraid to ask how to pronounce
Ensure that your counterpart knows how you prefer to be called. Do not say “You can call me anything”.
All the above
Shaking hands to an American:
Shake hands firmly (men to men). Not limply when introduced or departing.
Wait till a woman gives you a hand before you extend yours to her
After shaking hands, let go of the other person’s hand
Telephone Etiquette as per American culture:
Greet, wish the time of day and identify yourself
Leave a message if the person is unavailable
If the person required is on another line, then ask if the speaker can hold
Speaker-phone Etiquette
Ask permission of the person you are talking to, to turn on the speaker phone
Identify the people in the room
As per American culture while turning on the speaker phone,there is no need to seek permission.
Both 1 and 2
which of the following is not true with respect to E-mail Etiquette of American Culture
Salutations are very important. Begin your email with “Hi” and end with a “Thank you ”.
The first three lines count the most.
Ensure that there are no errors esp. in spellings
Email is considered the property of the Company however dont have to think twice about the info you send and to whom
which of the following is not true with respect to business meetings as per American culture
Meetings are set after consulting people involved.
An agenda is important. Linear not spiral
Meetings are seldom interrupted. Discussions proceed to conclusion without interruption
Business is conducted at a slow pace.
Body language which is a big NO NO as per American culture:
YAWN - cover your mouth if you must
SLOUCH - or use your arm as a face-stand
BITE nails