Office Etiquette - US/Canada

Office etiquette varies from country to country. Get to know some office do's and don'ts you need to follow in the US and Canada

• The first office etiquette mistake that you can make in the US is not to say "Good Morning and Good Bye." While the rule is to work as quietly and constructively as possible, being friendly matters and it starts with wishing your fellow workers a pleasant "Good Morning."

• In both American and Canadian business culture "time is money." Punctuality is considered sacred and people are expected to attend meetings and appointments on time. However, in Canada, in the French areas, time is more relaxed.

• In U.S. business culture, business dressing tends to vary. While in the east most people wear business suits in the west coast, a more relaxed approach to dressing is the norm. Executives in most regions of the country, however, usually dress formally. When in doubt, dress conservatively; you cannot go wrong with it.

• While addressing a stranger, one could use Sir, Ma'am, or Miss. And, when responding, it is polite to answer "Yes, Ma'am", "Yes, Sir" or "Yes, Miss" as a sign of respect - especially if the person is older than you or if it is a formal conversation. This rule applies to both American and Canadian business etiquette.

• It is advisable to stand at an approximate distance of one arm's length from an individual when introducing yourself. Offer a firm handshake, lasting 3-5 seconds, upon greeting and leaving. Never address people with their first names. Unless they ask you, always stick to Mr., Mrs., Miss, and Ms. If you don't know the marital status of a woman, the rule is not to assume, always use Ms.

• Personal space or gestures differ slightly with the Canadians. In a formal gathering, there is minimal body movement in American business culture. French Canadians stand closer and are more demonstrative and expressive. Though a hand shake is expected in Canadian business etiquette, it is better for men to wait for a woman to extend her hand for a handshake.

• The basic rule of introduction to follow is to introduce lower ranking individuals to higher ranking individuals. And yes always include titles (e.g., Dr., Judge, etc.) and name prefix (e.g., Mr., Mrs. Ms.).

• Americans often ask, "What do you do?" to start a conversation. This kind of question is not regarded presumptuous, but is rather a way to show interest in the individual by showing interest in his or her job.

• Unlike in Japan or in China, exchanging business card is viewed as an ordinary or casual activity and follows no formal rules in both American and Canadian business etiquette.

Source: Internet