Many E-2 visa investors have years of business experience before coming to the United States. Still, working in the U.S. often involves adjusting to local expectations around communication, management, and customer service. This guide offers practical examples to help investors understand how certain situations are typically handled in American workplaces.
Employees Expect to Be Heard
Situation: During a team meeting, an entry-level employee questions part of your plan.
What to expect: According to the U.S. International Trade Administration, many U.S. workplaces encourage employees at all levels to speak up and contribute ideas. Open feedback, even from junior staff, is common and viewed as a sign of engagement rather than disrespect.
Service Is Measured by Responsiveness
Situation: A customer requests a refund even though the product or service met the stated terms.
What to expect: As noted by the U.S. Small Business Administration, American consumers often expect flexibility and quick responses, especially when issues arise. Businesses are expected to prioritize satisfaction, even when they are not technically at fault.
Informality Is Professional
Situation: A supplier greets you using your first name and immediately begins discussing business.
What to expect: According to global business culture resources and supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce, business interactions in the U.S. tend to be informal. First names are used widely, even in high-level settings. Efficiency and clarity are often prioritized over formality.
Feedback Is Private, Not Public
Situation: You correct an employee in front of others during a staff meeting.
What to expect: ThinkCulturalHealth.hhs.gov notes that while direct communication is valued, public criticism is discouraged in most American workplaces. Feedback should be offered in private to maintain trust and morale.
Verbal Agreements Are Not Enough
Situation: A vendor agrees to terms verbally, and you begin the project without a written agreement.
What to expect: SBA guidance and U.S. business norms stress the importance of formal contracts. Written documentation is standard practice and helps avoid misunderstandings or disputes. Relying on verbal promises alone is considered a business risk.
Resources
- U.S. International Trade Administration: https://www.trade.gov/knowledge-product/exporting-us-business-culture
- Think Cultural Health (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services): https://thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/education
- Global Business Culture – U.S. Business Culture Overview: https://www.globalbusinessculture.com/cultural-awareness/business-culture-in-the-u-s/
- U.S. Small Business Administration – Customer Service: https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/manage-your-business/strengthen-your-customer-service
- U.S. Small Business Administration – Legal Steps to Start a Business: https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/launch-your-business