Whether you work with Americans face-to-face, communicate with them via telephone or e-mail, or interact together in a virtual team, this book reveals the subtle and not-so-subtle aspects of American culture in the workplace.
Best-selling author Craig Storti provides historical perspectives and explanations of the six most important American cultural themes and their relevance to the workplace:
- ”Land of Opportunity” – (a driven people)
- ”Go-for-It Mentality” – (ready, fire, aim; new is better)
- ”Equality for All” – (but don’t forget who’s boss)
- ”The Drive to Achieve” – (nice guys finish last)
- ”Live and Let Live” – (do your own thing)
- ”Time Matters” – (obsession with efficiency)
Learn about straight talk, American style, and how Americans aren’t always as direct as they say they are. Find out why Americans are deeply conflicted about power: they crave it but are loath to be caught craving it. See how Americans view outsiders. Gain tips for succeeding in the American work environment. Finally, get the basics of work-related etiquette: conducting meetings, giving feedback, nonverbal communication, e-mail rules, gifts, taboo topics, and so on.
Knowing how Americans work with each other will help you predict their reactions and, more important, their expectations of you. And if you are American, you will better understand your own behavior and be able to work more effectively with colleagues from other cultures.
About the Author
Craig Storti is founder and director of Communicating Across Cultures, a Washington DC-based intercultural communication training and consulting firm. A former Peace Corps volunteer, he has written many best-selling books on the cross-cultural experience, including The Art of Crossing Cultures, The Art of Coming Home and Figuring Foreigners Out.
