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'How are you?' is a greeting
In the U.S., 'How are you?' is usually a friendly greeting — not a real question. A simple 'Good, thanks! You?' is the perfect answer.
Today's tip
Sometimes you bag your own
At grocery stores like Aldi or Trader Joe's, you bag your own groceries. It's not rude — it's just the system.
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'What's up?' = 'How are you?'
When someone says 'What's up?' or 'How's it going?' just answer 'Not much!' or 'Good, you?'
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Handshakes & eye contact
When meeting someone new — especially at work — a handshake and friendly eye contact are common and polite.
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Small talk is normal
Americans often chat about weather, weekend plans, or sports with strangers. It's not nosy — it's friendly.
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Restaurants: 15–20%
At sit-down restaurants, tipping 15–20% of the bill is expected. Servers often earn most of their income from tips.
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Food delivery: $3–5 or 15%
For delivery drivers, tip at least $3–5 or about 15% of the order — more if it's raining or far away.
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Uber / Lyft: 10–20%
Tipping rideshare drivers in the app is appreciated. 15% is a friendly standard.
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Hair salon / barber: ~20%
Tip your stylist or barber about 20%. A few extra dollars for a great cut goes a long way.
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Coffee shop: a dollar or two
Tipping at coffee shops is optional. A dollar in the jar or rounding up is friendly and common.
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Be on time — or early
In American workplaces, arriving on time is very important. Five minutes early is even better. Being late looks disrespectful.
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Ask questions — it shows you care
It's normal to ask questions at work. Saying 'Can you explain that again, please?' shows you want to do a good job.
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First names are common
Most coworkers — even managers — go by their first name. Use 'Mr./Ms.' only when someone asks you to.
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Feedback is normal
Managers often give 'feedback' — both good and helpful. It's not personal. It just means: 'Here's how to grow.'
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Stand in line and wait
Americans take turns and stand in line (a 'queue'). Cutting the line is considered very rude.
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Returns are usually easy
Most stores let you return items within 14–30 days with a receipt. Don't be afraid to ask: 'Can I return this?'
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Sometimes you bag your own
At grocery stores like Aldi or Trader Joe's, you bag your own groceries. It's not rude — it's just the system.
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Tax is added at checkout
Prices on the shelf usually don't include sales tax. Your final price will be a few percent higher.
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Arrive 15 minutes early
At a doctor's office, arrive 15 minutes early to fill out forms. Bring your ID and insurance card.
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It's okay to ask 'why?'
You can always ask the doctor: 'Why do I need this medicine?' or 'Can you say it more simply?' Good doctors expect questions.
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Pharmacists can help too
If you don't understand your medicine, ask the pharmacist. They can explain dosage and side effects clearly.
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911 is for emergencies only
Call 911 only for emergencies (fire, danger, severe pain). For minor problems, call your doctor's office or visit urgent care.
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'Please' and 'thank you' often
Americans say 'please' and 'thank you' in almost every interaction — even small ones. It always shows respect.
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Carry your ID
Always carry an ID — your driver's license, state ID, or a copy of your documents. Many places ask for it.
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It's okay to say 'I don't understand'
Most Americans are happy to repeat or rephrase. 'Sorry, can you say that again?' is polite, not embarrassing.
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Personal space matters
Stand about an arm's length away when talking. Standing too close can feel uncomfortable.
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Smiling at strangers is friendly
A small smile or quick 'hi' to a stranger on the street is normal and friendly — not flirting.
🇺🇸 Culture changes by region — these are friendly defaults, not strict rules.