Business Etiquette in North America
Even though your business primarily retains customers that live in the United States, you may be considering expanding your client base to the rest of North America. The continent of North America includes the United States, as well as Canada and Mexico, and professional customs in these three countries are quite similar.
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Business Attire
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It is most appropriate for both men and women to wear dark-colored business suits to meetings in major cities. In rural areas or less formal office environments, men are not required to wear a jacket; a shirt and tie with black or dark blue slacks are acceptable. Jeans or shorts should be avoided by North American professionals when doing business. Professionals in Canada should prepare for the cold weather by wearing appropriate clothing, such as a suit made of thicker material, and businesspeople in Mexico should choose professional clothing in thinner fabric for the warmer months.
Business Cards
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U.S. professionals do not have a specific method for passing out business cards. However, it is best to address the professional who is receiving the business card as Mr., Mrs. or Miss, until invited to call the person by his first name. It is not uncommon for businesspeople in the United States to fold or write on business cards, but it may be best to avoid doing this unless other professionals in the meeting do the same.
When exchanging business cards in Canada, it is appropriate to have one side of the business card translated into French--everyone in the meeting receives a card, and the method for presenting cards is casual.
Business cards should be given to all professionals at a meeting in Mexico as well, and it is advisable to have one side of the card translated into Spanish, with the Spanish side facing the recipient.
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Negotiations
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Building a trustworthy relationship with professionals in Mexico is the best way to begin negotiations. It is best not to be overly persuasive, and to avoid any sort of conflict during points of disagreement because this makes a bad impression. Engaging in a few minutes of small talk with Mexican businesspeople after the negotiations have ended is always recommended.
In the United States, it is appropriate to use hard selling methods in some instances. Final decisions for negotiations are made from the top down, but the opinions of colleagues are valued. Being reserved and respectful during negotiations is best in Canada; it is also a nice gesture for professionals in the country to take one another to a meal after a decision has been reached.
Punctuality
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In the United States, businesspeople value punctuality, and it is appropriate to arrive a few minutes before the meeting begins. There is not much time for small talk, although pleasantries will be exchanged, because Americans like to get to the business of the meeting quickly.
In Mexico, a significant amount of time is spent in small talk before the meeting, and it is not uncommon for Mexican professionals to arrive up to 30 minutes after the international professional has made it to the meeting site.
During business meetings in Canada, it is common for individuals in the French areas tp use gestures and touch one another's arms when speaking. In the English regions of the country, body language is much more reserved in a professional setting.
Gift Giving
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It is not required to give a gift at the first business meeting in North America; however, it is acceptable to give an initial gift in the United Stateas or Mexico--a small token, such as a present with a company logo, is appropriate. Gifts are often given at the end of negotiations in Canada--a quality bottle of wine or liquor is an acceptable gift. Gifts are usually opened upon receipt in the United States.
If invited to the home of a professional in Mexico or the United States, it is customary to bring flowers or chocolates to the host; Canadians don't often invite colleagues to their homes.
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References
- Photo Credit north america image by NataV from Fotolia.com
