The American-style of doing business is often characterized by a focus on individualism, competition, and the pursuit of profit. American businesses tend to operate in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, and the emphasis is often on innovation, efficiency, and growth.

American businesses are also typically hierarchical, with clear lines of authority and decision-making power. In general, the American-style of doing business is driven by a focus on individual achievement and the belief that success comes from hard work and determination.

Americans Even Do Business Differently Than Their Closest Allies

Americans have a reputation of being more decisive and more cutthroat which actually often puts them at odds with their Canadian neighbors. American businesses tend to be more hierarchical and have a stronger emphasis on individual achievement, while Canadian businesses often have a more collaborative and team-oriented approach. Additionally, American businesses tend to operate in a more fast-paced and dynamic environment, while Canadian businesses may place a greater emphasis on stability and long-term planning.

But these differences haven’t hurt the two countries’ relations. the U.S.-Canada border is the longest undefended border in the world, stretching for over 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles) from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. And the United States and Canada enjoy the world’s most lucrative and enduring trade relationship, with almost $1.6 billion in goods crossing the border each day.  Goods and services trade totaled almost $675 billion during 2017, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

So How Can Asian Business Leaders Figure Out Their American Counterparts?

U.S. and Asian companies tend to do business very differently, but that hasn’t hurt their relationships as the U.S. remains the largest or second largest market for many Asian countries.

While there is no single “Asian way” of doing business, as there is a great deal of diversity within the region and business practices can vary greatly from one country to another, most Asian business executives differ in their approach to commerce from their American counterparts.

Some common themes among many Asian countries include a focus on relationship-building and maintaining harmony within the workplace. In many Asian cultures, business decisions are often made through consensus and collaboration, rather than through a top-down, hierarchical structure. Additionally, many Asian businesses place a strong emphasis on respect for authority, and may have strict protocols for social interactions within the workplace.

Overall, while there may not be a single “Asian way” of doing business, there are certainly some common themes and cultural values that are prevalent in many parts of the region and these and to be very different from the more freestyle American approach. But that hasn’t stopped billions in trade between the U.S. and Asian companies.

Mutual Trust And Understanding Is What Matters

It’s important for Asian business leaders to understand how Americans see the world and practice business for several reasons. First, the United States is a major global economic power, and many Asian businesses have significant trade and investment ties with American companies. Understanding American business practices and cultural values can help Asian business leaders to better navigate the American business environment and to more effectively communicate and work with American partners. Additionally, as the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, it’s important for business leaders from different regions to have a basic understanding of each other’s perspectives and ways of doing business in order to facilitate cooperation and collaboration.

Understanding how Americans see the world and practice business is valuable for Asian leaders. Respecting differences and focusing on similarities is usually a good approach to boosting business and finding the classic win-win scenario.