Whether you work with Americans face-to-face, communicate with them by telephone or e-mail or interact together in a virtual team, Americans at Work reveals the subtle and the not-so-subtle aspects of American culture in the workplace. Best-selling author Craig Storti provides historical perspectives and explanations of the six most important American cultural themes and their relevance to the workplace. Learn about straight talk, American style, and how Americans aren't always as direct as they say they are. Find out why Americans are deeply conflicted about power: they crave it but are loath to be caught craving it. See how Americans view outsiders. Gain tips for succeeding in the American work environment. Finally, get the basics of work-related etiquette: conducting meetings, giving feedback, nonverbal communication, e-mail rules, gifts, taboo topics and so on. Knowing how Americans work with each other will help you predict their reactions and, more important, their expectations of you. And if you are American, you will better understand your own behavior and be able to work more effectively with colleagues from other cultures.

Pt. 1 The big picture

Ch. 1. Americans and foreigners
Ch. 2. The land of opportunity
Ch. 3. The can-do people
Ch. 4. Equality for all
Ch. 5. You are what you've done
Ch. 6. On your own
Ch. 7. Time matters
Ch. 8. Communication, American style
Ch. 9. Of Bosses and subordinates

Pt. 2 The details

Workplace relationships
Personal and professional
Women in the workplace
Sexual harassment
Meetings
Presentations
E-mail etiquette
Telephone etiquette
Giving feedback
Training
Nonverbal communication
Greetings and leave-takings
Dress
Gifts
Taboo topics
Going to lunch
Smoking
A guest in the home