Manners in America, U.S., USA
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Hug
- High five
- Light kiss on cheek (regional variation)
Etiquette
- Punctuality valued but West Coast relatively relaxed
- 15-20% tips customary at restaurants
- Smoking banned in public places in many states
- Business card exchange not mandatory, casual
- Wide personal space preferred
- Topics of religion and politics handled carefully
- Dress code varies by occasion; business casual standard in business
- BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) party culture
- Holding doors open for the next person is polite
- Eye contact with speaker valued