Cultural difference: doing business with Americans

Discovering American culture to successfully launch a business in the USA

Starting a business in the United States is an exciting project but also a challenge. The land of Uncle Sam is far removed from France, both geographically and culturally. To do business with Americans, you need to understand them and, above all, understand their cultural differences. To help you, we invite you to discover a few specific characteristics, particularly the professional differences between the French and Americans.

Cultural difference: Americans are direct

In France, we tend to be tactful in the way we express ourselves. This approach is used so as not to upset the person we are addressing. Remarks are made politely, and misunderstandings may arise. If you choose to start a business in the USA, you should know that, across the Atlantic, Americans are much more direct. You should not take offense! If you make a mistake or if something does not please your contact, they will tell you clearly. The opposite is also true. If your work is good, they will tell you that too. This characteristic is very valuable because you can improve and appreciate your good results.

A clear hierarchy in US companies

In France, company organizational charts are very horizontal. Responsibilities are well distributed, and hierarchy is often downplayed in favor of collaborative work. In the United States, hierarchy is much more visible and respected than in France. If you open a business in the USA, you will therefore need to show great respect for people with responsibilities and accept the implementation of a more vertical hierarchy in your company. Good to know In the United States, it is very common to address people by their first name. So, if one of your employees does so without asking your permission, do not be surprised! It is also common for a boss to invite employees to a restaurant or to their home. The atmosphere is friendly, but respect remains essential.

Americans work a lot

Starting a business in the USA requires a great deal of time. People who embark on this project do not count their hours. Be aware that Americans do not have the same concept of working hours as the French. For example, American workers are never late. This is considered disrespectful. Managing working time is also very important. If Americans arrive right on time, they also want to leave on time, having completed the various tasks they had to do during the day. They optimize their working time and are highly efficient. Poor organization or scheduling is viewed very negatively across the Atlantic. For them, as for all American companies, time is money!

A great deal of informality in the workplace

If you have ever had the opportunity to travel to the United States, you know that people there are very relaxed. Store clerks do not simply say hello; they ask how you are! The same trend applies in the workplace. Your colleagues and coworkers will not hesitate to ask how your move went, about your vacation, your trip… As for clothing, there is no need to wear a suit to the weekly meeting. Americans dress as they wish! Uniforms are still worn for certain customer-facing roles.

Starting a business is common

Entrepreneurship is viewed very differently in France and the USA. For Americans, entrepreneurship is normal; it is part of the culture. The project is often pursued wholeheartedly and is not an alternative to losing a job. In fact, many entrepreneurs have another professional activity alongside it. In the United States, taking risks is valued, and entrepreneurs enjoy an excellent reputation. For them, failure is an experience, and a difficulty is a challenge to overcome. People who embark on entrepreneurship are supported and encouraged.

Starting a business in the USA: adopting a positive attitude

In the United States, trust prevails in companies. Once a task has been assigned to someone, it is rare for them to be closely supervised or required to report back after a few days. We have already mentioned that time management takes priority. Each worker organizes themselves as effectively as possible to complete their work on time. They will use every resource available to them and will never hesitate to ask for help. You will therefore need to trust your teams while also giving them considerable freedom. This may include a high degree of work flexibility!

Motivated workers

In the USA, the job market is very different from ours. An American company can hire and fire employees without providing justification. Staffing levels adapt to demand. It is easier to find work, but to keep it, you need to perform well. Workers take initiative and make their expertise available to companies. It is also worth noting that American managers do not hesitate to take a lower-level job if necessary. And they will be determined to do it properly!

A good network for success

More than in France, networking plays a very important role in the United States. Professionals stay in touch and do not hesitate to connect with people who could have a positive impact on their career or the success of their business. Do not be surprised if an executive contacts you to discuss matters, offer advice, or share their experience. You should also know that there are more headhunters across the Atlantic. If you have a strong employee within your company, they will attract other companies that will not hesitate to offer them an excellent salary. More than degrees, talent is highly valued! Setting up a company in the United States is possible, but if you want your business to flourish, you must take the time to learn about the cultural differences between France and the United States, accept them, and even make use of them.