Punctuality
Americans are punctual when it comes to meeting matter, and they expect you to do the same. If you arrive late, do not hesitate to call and excuse yourself.

Introductions
If you meet someone you know while talking with another connaissance of yours in a public place or on the street, it is convenient to introduce them to each other.

Meetings
During meetings and introductions, Americans do not stick with formal and complex rules. They shake hands upon introductions, or when they see each other after a long time. In the other hand, they do not shake hands while saying goodbye. You will quickly be called with your first name.

Conversations
On choosing conversation topics, Americans are very free and they might ask you questions which seem a bit indiscreet (political opinions, religions, income, etc), avoiding nevertheless the delicate questions when they have not known you enough long time.

It is okay to talk to a stranger, but do not insist if he or she does not show any interest to talk further.

It is never a good idea for a stranger to critic American institutions, the society, or any matter concerning their lifestyle. It is tactless and rude.

Invitations
If you are invited to lunch or dinner at someone's place, it is convenient to bring a small present for the house mistress (flowers, sweets, wine, a souvenir from your country, etc). Except for special occasions, more expensive gifts can embarrass the hostess.

If you only come to have a drink, it is okay if you do not bring any gift.

Do not be surprised if the house mistress wants you to visit her "home sweet home", and at the same time showing you where the bathrooms are, so if you need it later, there is no more need to ask.

A compliment on the house or the decoration will be appreciated, as well as when they present you their children.

In the table
During the meal, you will be proposed some milk, tea, or cold water. Americans are not much of wine drinkers.

Kids eat at the adults's table and participate actively in the conversation.

It is inconvenient to smoke between the dishes. The only moment you might smoke is at the end of the meal, and only after you have asked the permission of your hosts. Please do know that smoking is delicate and the best thing to do is simply not smoking at all.

Generally, guests must go home in the two following hours after the meal, except if the hosts want you to stay longer.

If you know the hosts well, you can ask them if they need any help to wash the dishes.

The next day, thank them by phone or by sending a small card.

Language
When you are a minority between a group of Americans, it is very inconvenient to talk between your fellow countrymen in your mother tongue. Use English, even if your English niveau is not very good, they will appreciate it much more if you use English to communicate rather than your native language.

Pot Luck
Pot Luck or Covered Dish means that each guest must bring a dish of his/her choice or a bottle. Generally, the host will tell you what to bring (appetizer, main course, dessert...) to ensure that nobody brings the same dish.

B.Y.O.B. means Bring Your Own Bottle.

Showers
If you are invited to a Bridal or Baby Shower for a wedding or a birth, normally you should arrive with a gift chosen from their list.

Compliments
If you receive a compliment, do not play your modest, just accept it with a smile and do not forget to say thank you.

Cellphones
It is totally inconvenient to talk with your mobile phones when you are dining on a table with your friends or during professional meetings.