Networking

Business Customs

Business culture in New York mirrors the city itself - fast paced. The city has a competitive work nature.

In the workplace, avoid any remarks on such topics that can be misconstrued. Avoid asking anyone’s age – as well as being socially taboo, it is not permitted to ask a potential employee’s age.

Security in New York is much tighter than it was before September 11. It’s useful to carry a passport or picture ID if you are visiting a contact in another office block, since you may be stopped by security staff. Also, carry your contact’s direct number.

In most banks, law firms and professional organizations, men wear suits and women wear similar appropriate dress except for Fridays and during the summer months, when business casual attire is the norm.

Business casual is usually spelled out quite specifically by each organization, but is generally khaki pants and collar shirts for men and similar attire for women. Many corporations have adopted business casual dress year round or have specified casual dress except when meeting with clients.

When meeting new co-workers, it is expected that you shake hands (both men and women) and address one another on a first-name basis. The formal use of Mr., Mrs., or Ms. is reserved only for the most senior members of a firm.

Business takes place at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The business breakfast is a particularly American custom, and can be scheduled as early as 7:30am, particularly in-house meetings. Most business lunches remain alcohol-free due to the desire to return to the office and accomplish a full day’s work. Business dinners usually include cocktails and wine, particularly dinners celebrating the successful completion of a business transaction.

Business hours vary from firm to firm, but normally are from 9:00am to 6:00pm. The city’s business language is English; in fact legal negotiations by a group of individuals fluent in the same foreign tongue are still conducted in English in most cases.

Don’t arrange any Friday afternoon meetings. You’ll be resented. You’re cutting into casual Friday, just when people are winding down for the weekend.

Tip cab drivers, hotel porters and bar staff (about $1 a drink). It’s expected.

New Yorkers appreciate direct questions, and openness. Learn to be upfront about things.