If you are a traveler, you will know that there are different ways to conduct yourself in different cultures or settings. As such, it is quite easy to offend someone in a particular country with behavior that is perfectly acceptable socially in another. American etiquette and customs may not be as strict as in other cultures, but there are still some rules to follow in order to fit in well.
Visitors to the U. S. A. Should know that they do not have to expect a formal introduction in order to strike up a conversation with a stranger. Most times, a smile, a handshake or simply saying "Hello" is enough. While some people may find this incredibly informal behavior unnerving, it is actually very friendly.
Punctuality is a big deal in this society. People generally plan their schedules around how they will spend their time and being late for a meeting or appointment is generally frowned upon. Showing up on time shows others that one is reliable and dependable, which are very good traits to have.
When invited to a social gathering of any sort, again, it is polite to be on time. If invited to a small gathering at someone's home, guests are allowed to be up to ten minutes late before it is considered rude. For larger gatherings in public spaces, there is a wider margin of error, and there is about a half-hour grace period that guests have to arrive.
As a guest in someone's home, it is normal to show appreciation for being invited by arriving with a gift of some sort. This does not have to be extravagant. In general, giving the hostess some flowers or walking with a bottle of good wine is best. Expect dinners at someone's home to be done in a family style. This means serving oneself from large dishes filled with food that are passed around the table.
Don't feel like you must go back for more food. You can say no to any offers of seconds or a drink top up without having to explain yourself. You should, however, always leave back some food in your plate at the end of a meal so that you do not look too greedy.
At a dinner table, the guests should be seated when invited to do so by the hostess. Napkins should be placed in one's lap as soon as they are seated. Mingling and making small talk with other guests is encouraged. Most individuals refer to one another on a first name basis, with the exception of nobility or royalty.
You don't have to be too concerned about the manner in which you eat in the States, because there are so many different kinds of foods. However, most times it is best to hold the fork in your right hand, unless you need it to cut or spread anything with a knife. You can sometimes use your hands to eat. If you want to show that you are done with your plate, rest the knife and fork side by side on it. To show that you haven't yet finished, cross them in an X.
Visitors to the U. S. A. Should know that they do not have to expect a formal introduction in order to strike up a conversation with a stranger. Most times, a smile, a handshake or simply saying "Hello" is enough. While some people may find this incredibly informal behavior unnerving, it is actually very friendly.
Punctuality is a big deal in this society. People generally plan their schedules around how they will spend their time and being late for a meeting or appointment is generally frowned upon. Showing up on time shows others that one is reliable and dependable, which are very good traits to have.
When invited to a social gathering of any sort, again, it is polite to be on time. If invited to a small gathering at someone's home, guests are allowed to be up to ten minutes late before it is considered rude. For larger gatherings in public spaces, there is a wider margin of error, and there is about a half-hour grace period that guests have to arrive.
As a guest in someone's home, it is normal to show appreciation for being invited by arriving with a gift of some sort. This does not have to be extravagant. In general, giving the hostess some flowers or walking with a bottle of good wine is best. Expect dinners at someone's home to be done in a family style. This means serving oneself from large dishes filled with food that are passed around the table.
Don't feel like you must go back for more food. You can say no to any offers of seconds or a drink top up without having to explain yourself. You should, however, always leave back some food in your plate at the end of a meal so that you do not look too greedy.
At a dinner table, the guests should be seated when invited to do so by the hostess. Napkins should be placed in one's lap as soon as they are seated. Mingling and making small talk with other guests is encouraged. Most individuals refer to one another on a first name basis, with the exception of nobility or royalty.
You don't have to be too concerned about the manner in which you eat in the States, because there are so many different kinds of foods. However, most times it is best to hold the fork in your right hand, unless you need it to cut or spread anything with a knife. You can sometimes use your hands to eat. If you want to show that you are done with your plate, rest the knife and fork side by side on it. To show that you haven't yet finished, cross them in an X.
About the Author:
Learn the American etiquette and customs when you take the time to review our informative posts. Here is the web page that contains useful tips on how to demonstrate good manners in public at http://americangoodmanners.com.
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