Country guide

United States (Central) Business etiquette and meeting customs

America/Chicago

What kind of meeting?

Strict punctuality

Arrive on time or a few minutes early — being late makes a poor impression.

Meeting Culture

Recommended duration30-60 min
Communication StyleDirect and friendly
Greeting StyleFirm handshake

Daily Schedule

Work Hours09:0017:00
Breakfast07:0008:00
Lunch12:0013:00
Dinner18:0019:00
Sleep23:0007:00

Tips for Meetings

For the kind of meeting you chose above.

Dress Code

Business casual or formal

Tone

Professional but friendly

  • ·Expect warm small talk before getting to business
  • ·Follow up promptly with meeting notes
  • ·Respect scheduled end times

General Tips

  • ·Punctuality is expected
  • ·Midwestern friendliness — slightly more small talk
  • ·Email follow-ups are standard
  • ·Business casual dress is common

Cultural Notes

  • ·Central time zone

Meeting someone from United States (Central)?

Find the best time

Cultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.

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