Social customs

Every country has traditions. They are the correct things to do when you are with other people. Here are some of the social customs you will find in America:

1) People you see on the street, or in a store, will sometimes smile and say "Hello" even if you don't know them!  This is normal. It is good to smile back and say "Hello".

2) When people meet you for the first time they usually shake hands. This may not happen now because of Covid. People "bump fists". But if someone reaches out their hand to shake your hand, it is normal.

3) When you go to a store to buy something, if you need help, here is how to ask for help:
To young woman—
"Excuse me, miss, could you help me?"
To older woman—
"Excuse me, mam, could you help me?"
To young man—
"Excuse me, young man, could you help me?"
To older man—
"Excuse me, sir, could you help me?"

4) When you enter a building if there are other people who also want to go in (or people who want to come out at the same time) it is polite to let the other people go first. Men always let women go first. Men always hold the door for women.

5) Being on time is very important to Americans. If you have a meeting or appointment, or if you are supposed to call or video-chat with someone, it is important to be on time. If you can't be on time, you need to let the person, or office, know. If you are late, it is disrespectful.

6) The clothes people wear in America are very different from other cultures. Some clothes will be offensive to you. (Some clothes are offensive to people who live here too!) You do not have to change how you dress to "fit in" or be welcomed. You should not wear clothes that make you feel uncomfortable.