Action/work orientation

The value associated with work is so important in the United States that people meeting for the first time frequently ask each other, “What do you do?” or “Where do you work?” Embedded in this simple query is the belief that working (doing something) is important. For most Americans, work represents a cluster of moral and affective conditions of great attractiveness, and voluntary idleness is often seen as a severely threatening and damaging social condition. Unlike cultures where physical labor is considered the providence of the less privileged, Americans place considerable value on the “dignity of human labor.” This value can be seen in the activities of U.S. presidents  Reagan chopped wood, G.W. Bush cleared brush, and President Obama has spent time helping Habitat for Humanity construct homes for the less fortunate. A major reward for this hard work, and an important aspect of life in the United States, is time away from the job. For Americans, leisure time is something they have earned. It is relief from the demands and stress of work. This emphasis on recreation and relaxation takes a wide variety of forms. Each weekend people rush to get away in their RVs, play golf or tennis, go skiing, ride their mountain bikes, go to the beach, or “unwind” at a gambling casino, a racetrack, or a movie. Vacations are usually spent “doing” something. Americans commonly relax by engaging in some form of activity. However, leisure time is generally seen as an opportunity to “refresh,” so one can return to work with rededicated enthusiasm.

Informality

When placing an order at nearly any Starbucks© in southern California you are almost always asked to provide your name, and the expectation is that it will be your first name. Shortly thereafter, you will likely hear your name shouted out as your order is completed. In U.S. restaurants the waitstaff will often introduce themselves using their first name. These practices are examples of the informality that characterizes U.S. culture and are in contrast with what you would experience in other, more formal cultures.

This informality is a reflection of the equality that Americans value. Everyone, regardless of position, rank, or wealth is considered as equal and there is no need for titles of distinction. The exception to this practice is for those in certain professions, such as military, medical, courts, clergy, high government official, and a few others. This informality does not connote a lack of respect toward others. Rather, it conveys the feeling of equality and individuality inherent in the dominant U.S. culture.

Directness, openness, and honesty

Americans often use phrases like, “Just tell it like it is,” or “Don’t beat around the bush.” In these instances, the speaker is indicating a desire to quickly get to the heart of the matter. This illustrates the value placed on direct, open, and honest communication, which takes precedence over politeness and face saving measures. Here again, you can see the influence of equality, informality, the importance of time, and the feeling that each person can take care of themselves. Americans see no need to use elaborate courtesy protocols because everyone is equal and honesty is a positive mark of one’s character [29].