Everyone wants to be respected and liked, especially when you meet people around the world. And our patterns and practices can, sometimes unconsciously, feel cold or even insipid to the other cultures. We don’t notice them when we are too busy doing our own thing, but they really do matter on a global level.
Here are 11 things Americans can reframe to make a stronger impact abroad. If we’re just a bit more mindful about these habits, we can cultivate more connection and express our best selves. Let’s look into these behaviors and learn how the smallest change can be the biggest difference in how we appear to the world.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels.
Overusing Abbreviations
The Americans are big fans of acronyms such as ASAP (as soon as possible) and LOL (laugh out loud). These shortcuts are convenient but not obvious to international visitors. But not everyone can decipher a message chock-full of acronyms you have never heard before – it’s all a bit overwhelming! Use full words and explain acronyms when needed for smoother communication. It keeps everyone on the same page and makes you look like you’re trying to be clear.
Assuming Everyone Knows American Culture
America has plenty of different traditions, sports and entertainment. It could be the Super Bowl, Thanksgiving or popular television shows – all totally unknown to people outside of the United States. And if you talk about it without context, then people will get left behind. Better to explain briefly what you mean or use something more universally understood.
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Speaking Loudly
We Americans speak loudly, even at loud places such as a restaurant or at a party. Yet loud communication, at least in most cultures, is considered impolite or disruptive. Turning down your volume, particularly in quiet or reserved situations, will show you care. A gentler voice can help you make everyone feel better and not get into any misunderstandings.
Always Tipping
Tipping is part of American society – you’re supposed to tip waiters, taxi drivers, etc. But not every nation does this. In some cases, they include a service charge or it is even impolite to tip. Learn local tipping practices prior to traveling or dealing with a foreigner. This will help avoid awkward moments and also demonstrate that you understand their customs.
Using American Measurements
Americans measure with inches, feet and pounds. But, most of the rest of the world works on the metric system (metres, kilograms etc.). Use the metric system if you are on the road or working with others from other nations to avoid confusion. It could be something like “16 kilometres.” Instead of “10 miles”, for instance, it’s just a quick shift in communication that shows you care about different systems.
Bragging About Success
It’s great to talk about your success, but blabbing about it all the time is a form of boasting. Most cultures value modesty and humility rather than self-promotion. While it’s okay to be proud of your achievements, try to balance it out with listening to others and observing their achievements. This helps you to have better relationships and also shows that you respect others contributions too.
Talking Politics Constantly
Political debates can be sensitive, and people might feel uncomfortable. Politics is a private affair in some cultures. Too much talk of politics can also trigger friction or argument. Better to get the context right and see if everyone else is willing to talk politics.
Assuming English Is the Universal Language
English is spoken all over the place, but not everyone is completely fluent. If you assume that everyone is English-fluent, you can create barriers. Rather, try to speak simple and straightforward words or learn some simple words in the local language. It is a way of being respectful of others, and it also encourages easy and friendly interaction.
Expecting Fast Service
The Americans are used to instant service and quick transactions, but that doesn’t always happen elsewhere. There are more cultures where it is acceptable to pause and share a meal or talk. If you wait a bit and are okay with slower service it can be a relaxing experience. It will make you learn about other ways of doing things and also enhance your relationship with others.
Overusing Superlatives
We Americans are prone to superlatives such as “best”, “greatest,” and “most amazing” for things. That enthusiasm is great, but it might seem exaggerated or fake to natives of more understated cultures. A more nuanced and accurate language can help establish credibility and improve understanding.
Being Overly Informal
We Americans use first names and casual language all the time. But some cultures favour the more formal, particularly in professional or first-contact situations. Using titles and some degree of formality can demonstrate respect and make it easier to maintain a relationship. By adjusting your formality depending on circumstance and culture, your interactions can be easier and more civil.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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