Are you new to the United States? Learning about cultural norms can help you adjust. Read on for what you should know about American cultural norms.

Coming to the United States for the first time can be quite exciting and shocking experience at the same time. There are a lot of customs the US observes that other nations don’t.

If you’re traveling to the US for the first time, you’ll want to know how to act and communicate in a warm, friendly manner.

Read on to learn some of the most important American cultural norms and how you can get acclimated.

Accents Vary by Region

Depending on where you’re traveling within the United States, you’ll get to experience tons of unique dialects.

For instance, someone from Georgia or Alabama won’t sound like someone from New York. One of the fascinating aspects of American culture is the linguistics.

Even simple words take on different meanings according to your location. For instance, some regions will refer to carbonated sugary beverages as ‘soda’. Others will insist it’s ‘pop’. It’s a silly debate, but it can cause some confusion.

Take note of any shorthand you hear and try and practice it in your everyday conversations.

Here’s a fun video you can watch to get a better idea of how people in various regions pronounce words.

American Cultural Norms in Restaurants: Don’t Forget to Tip

We understand that you may not be familiar with the tipping customs, so here’s a little rundown.

Generally speaking, the restaurant work in the US doesn’t pay much. Accordingly, workers get to keep extra money or ‘tips’ for providing excellent service.

Therefore it’s custom to tip your waiter or waitress at least 20% of your total bill. You can add your tip by paying cash, or on your receipt at the end of your meal.

If you think this could get confusing, download a tipping calculator beforehand.

Avoid Controversial Topics of Conversation

The United States is in a rather tumultuous state politically, you may have heard. You’ll want to make sure you avoid subjects such as religion, sexuality, and politics.

It can be easy to say the wrong thing or express an opinion in an unintentionally abrasive tone of voice. A good rule of thumb is to generally avoid these topics.

Keep conversation light and friendly, particularly in a business environment.

Greet With a Handshake

It’s commonplace in many parts of the world to greet a coworker or friend with a kiss on the cheek. In the US, however, the preferred greeting is a smile and a nice, firm handshake.

Maintain eye contact and keep your body language warm and open. Remember, your body says as much about you as your words.

American Is a Melting Pot: Share Your Own Customs

One of the most wonderful and exciting aspects of the US is how varied it is. You may have heard it referred to as the Great Melting Pot before.

Many Americans will be warm and receptive to hearing your own experiences as a foreigner in a new land. To get closer to your new friends, don’t be afraid to share stories and customs of your own.

Tell them about your cuisine, family, and holidays. Chances are they’re more than happy to learn more about the world outside of their country!

If you’re interested in learning to speak English, or just want to know more about American cultural norms, get it touch today!