1. Embrace Direct and Concise Communication

🔑 Why It Matters: US workplace culture values clarity and efficiency. Unlike the more indirect or formal style common in Vietnam, being straightforward shows confidence and professionalism.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Replace vague phrases like “Maybe we can consider this” with direct ones: “I recommend this solution because…”
• Keep emails short and to the point. Lead with the main idea, then add context.
• In meetings, prepare your points in advance and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.

💡 Pro Tip: Try tools like Grammarly to make your emails more concise.

2. Understand and Adapt to US Time Orientation

⏰ Why It Matters: Time is a big deal in the US. Being punctual and meeting deadlines builds trust.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Join Zoom calls 2–3 minutes early with your mic and camera ready.
• Break tasks into milestones and give proactive updates (e.g., “I’m 50% done and on track for Friday”).
• Learn to manage the 12–15 hour time difference using tools like World Time Buddy.

3. Engage in Small Talk to Build Rapport

💬 Why It Matters: In the US, small talk is part of workplace bonding. It helps break the ice and build trust.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Learn common topics: weather, sports, Netflix shows, or weekend plans.
• Start with a friendly opener: “How was your weekend?”
• Avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion unless your colleagues bring them up.

4. Show Initiative and Proactivity

🚀 Why It Matters: US employers love employees who take initiative. Waiting for instructions may be seen as disengagement.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Volunteer for tasks during meetings.
• Share updates before being asked.
• Ask thoughtful questions like, “How can we improve this workflow?”

5. Adapt to Feedback and Open Communication

📝 Why It Matters: Feedback in US workplaces is frequent and direct — it’s meant to help you grow, not criticize you.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Respond with gratitude: “Thanks for the feedback, I’ll work on this.”
• Summarize feedback in writing to confirm your understanding.
• Don’t hesitate to give constructive feedback when asked.

6. Respect US Workplace Professionalism

👔 Why It Matters: Professionalism is expected, even in remote settings.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Wear business casual on video calls (collared shirt, blouse).
• Use polite, professional greetings (avoid “Hey bro” in emails).
• Respect time boundaries — don’t message colleagues outside US work hours.

7. Learn US Workplace Tools and Technology

💻 Why It Matters: US teams rely on tools like Slack, Zoom, Trello, and Google Workspace. Being tech-savvy shows you’re ready.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Watch free tutorials on YouTube or Coursera for each tool.
• Practice by setting up a mock Trello board or Slack channel.
• In interviews, ask: “What tools does your team use for collaboration?”

8. Understand US Holidays and Work Rhythms

🎉 Why It Matters: Acknowledging US holidays and adjusting your work around them shows cultural awareness.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Add US holidays (Thanksgiving, July 4th, Christmas) to your calendar.
• Avoid scheduling critical deadlines during holiday weeks.
• Send short greetings: “Wishing you a great Independence Day!”

9. Build Cross-Cultural Relationships

🤝 Why It Matters: Building trust and connections is just as important as doing the work.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Participate in virtual team-building activities.
• Ask about colleagues’ lives: “What’s your favorite thing about living in [city]?”
• Share your own culture (like Tet traditions) to create mutual respect.

10. Stay Open to Continuous Learning

📚 Why It Matters: Cultural adaptation isn’t a one-time task — it’s an ongoing process.

✨ Quick Wins:

• Spend 30 minutes weekly learning about US workplace norms (blogs, YouTube, LinkedIn Learning).
• Ask colleagues for guidance: “What’s one thing I should know about working with this team?”
• Document and apply what you learn.