Social and Gifting Etiquette - US/Canada

Gifting and social etiquette can get extremely tricky at times. The right and wrong of gifting and social etiquette can make or break a deal. Here are some right gifting and entertaining etiquette clues to make that impression!

• Corporate gifting is not regarded a necessity in American business culture. If you want to gift, be careful to choose an appropriate business gift. Very expensive gifts are to be avoided for valuable gifts could be misinterpreted. In Canadian business culture, gifts are not routinely given. If you do, make sure it is a modest one and probably given when the deal is finalized.

• It is customary to carry a small gift, like a box of chocolates, a bottle of wine, or a bunch of flowers if you are invited to someone's home for lunch or dinner. It is advisable not to give not give cash or money as a present in Canada. It is absolutely necessary to acknowledge gifts. Always send in a thank you note within two weeks of receiving the gift.

• Americans tend to refrain from hugging and other close physical contact except with family and friends. The same applies to Canadians. Touching, backslapping, hugging are reserved for the inner circle and are considered socially unacceptable.

• Never drop in unannounced; it's common courtesy to call ahead even if you are visiting your best friend.

• Tipping is customary for restaurant visits and taxi travel in Canada. The commonly accepted practice in Canada is to tip between 10%-15% of the entire cost of the bill. While in the US, the general rule for a restaurant or cafe is to tip 15 to 20 per cent of your bill total.

• Always wait for your turn in queues and never cut in ahead of others. If you have many items to be billed, let a person go ahead if they only have one or two items. A person who reaches the doorway first, regardless of gender is responsible for opening the door.

• It is customary to remove your hat when entering a home, restaurant, classroom, theatre, church, etc. in both the US and Canada.

• One should not point in public as pointing is considered rude in the West. Avoid using phrases like "you look tired" or questions like "Are you okay? You don't look well".

• Do not start smoking in someone's car or home without asking first.

• Littering with ashes, butts, matches, empty lighters and packages on pathways, sidewalks, streets, parking lots, beaches, etc. is considered extremely rude.

Source: Internet