Laws in the U.S. are written into the constitution and we cannot break them without consequences. There are also unwritten rules that aren’t always so clear. In this article, we are going to cover 18 unwritten rules that you need to follow in the U.S.
Respect Personal Space
Everyone values their own personal space, but in some countries, it is more normal to be closer to one another, the U.S. is not one of them. You should try to be at least an extended arm’s length from somebody else.
Tip Generously
Tipping is really important in the American service culture, with the tips themselves forming a significant part of the workers’ income. The tip amount can vary depending on the service provided, it is generally expected to tip well for food services as highlighted by Diply.
Greet with a Smile
A friendly greeting in the U.S. is normally not complete if it is given without a smile. A smile is a way to create a positive vibe while also forming a connection between the people in the interaction.
Say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’
Politeness is a key part of American culture, so by using phrases such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, you are showing respect to the other person. These two simple phrases can go a long way in creating positive interactions with those around you.
Hold the Door Open
Holding the door open for the person behind you is seen as common courtesy in the U.S., and is a small but valued act of kindness and consideration. Not holding the door for someone is seen as rude and in some circumstances, aggressive.
Cover Your Mouth When Coughing or Sneezing
Good hygiene is key for public health and for not spreading diseases and Johns Hopkins Center notes how this has become more important after the COVID pandemic. Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze helps prevent the spread of germs, which makes it less likely for the people around you to get sick.
Respect Queues
Americans value fairness and order above all else, so it is important that you respect queues and wait your turn in line. Cutting in line is seen as rude and disrespectful to those who have been waiting.
Be Punctual
Time is an important commodity anywhere in the world, but especially in America. Arriving on time is seen as a mark of respect for the time of other people, and is especially important when it comes to work commitments.
Mind Your Table Manners
Southern Living talks about how in the U.S., observing basic table manners during a meal with people reflects positively on your education and social awareness. This includes using cutlery correctly, chewing with your mouth closed, and not reaching across the table and over people to pass things.
Avoid Controversial Topics
While everyone in the U.S. has freedom of speech, there are certain topics that you should try to avoid. To keep social interactions comfortable you should keep away from discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and money. This is especially true when you are talking with people you have just met.
Use Indoor Voices
One thing that Americans notice when they travel to other countries is how much people from them tend to shout, or so they think. This is because, in the U.S., it is an unspoken rule that people normally use a moderate volume to speak when indoors, and speaking loudly can be seen as rude.
Respect Personal Belongings
Asking for permission before using someone else’s belongings shows that you respect their property, and also them. It is important to treat others’ belongings with care and return them to the owner when finished with them in the same condition that you borrowed them in.
Keep Conversations Balanced
When in social settings, it is important to be conscious of everyone there and make sure that there isn’t just one person dominating the conversation and preventing other people from speaking. Avoid making the conversation all about you and allow others to get involved too.
Respect No-Smoking Areas
Smoking is banned in many public spaces in the U.S. This list includes restaurants, bars, and public transportation. You should always respect the designated smoking areas and only smoke in those places.
Keep Cell Phone Usage Minimal
Excessive phone use when with other people can be seen as disrespectful and rude, especially during important events or conversations. Being present and engaged in the moment, and the company that you are in shows that you respect those around you and the time they are spending with you.
Offer Help to Those in Need
By following what Ideapod says, offering help to those in need demonstrates that you are able to feel compassion, empathy, and kindness. You can help others in many different ways, from offering to carry someone’s heavy groceries, to holding the door open or offering a listening ear.
Respect Traffic Laws
Following traffic laws and the rules of the road is not only an unspoken rule in the U.S., but it’s also vital to ensure the safety of you and other road users. This includes obeying speed limits, giving way to pedestrians, and following traffic signals.
Express Gratitude
Expressing your gratitude for someone is a lovely way to acknowledge and appreciate things that others do for you. This can be done by saying ‘thank you’ verbally or writing a thank-you note. Expressing gratitude helps strengthen your relationships with the people around you.
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