Etiquette
Overview
Introductions & Table Manners
Phone & Email Etiquette
Invitations
Overview
The polite behaviors and mores that frame personal and group interactions are extremely important in professional settings, and guide smooth and respectful discourse among colleagues and strangers alike.
However, it is very important to note that there is no universal etiquette. Every culture and country has its own unique expectations. The information on these pages outlines etiquette advice for living and working in the United States. Although there are regional customs, the guidelines and tips on these pages hold true throughout the country. We hope that they will help you successfully navigate a variety of social and business situations in the United Stages.
If you are a student from the United States, this information may be familiar to you or it might introduce new ideas or concepts that you have not encountered. You may wonder how to interpret certain guidelines in light of your past experience or how to integrate them into work relationships in competitive environments.
If you are an international student in the United States, a number of these guidelines may be similar to those at home, but there may be some that are not practiced in exactly the same way. Others may be so different that they pose a challenge at some level to your own values, but volunteer experiences, internships or full-time work in U.S. organizations may call for meeting expectations in these areas.
Whether you are a U.S. or international student, do not hesitate to talk with trusted advisers such as a counselor at Hiatt, friends, professors or others about etiquette questions to craft solutions that allow you to feel confident and comfortable in all work situations.
In this global marketplace, you will undoubtedly find yourself in the company of individuals from all over the world. In the area of etiquette, it is important to remember that there are no value judgments placed on the incredible diversity of behaviors and customs practiced all over the world. The key point is that etiquette matters for everyone, whether you are at home or in another country. Invest time to find out how to interact respectfully, tactfully and appropriately with all of your colleagues.