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 - continued (page 9) Written by Marty Deputy, Director of the International Center
In our culture, friendly facial expressions and polite words are important. You will be perceived as being more sincere if you smile and look directly in a person's eyes when speaking. Polite words such as "How are you?" "Please," "Thank you," and "No, thank you" are important. Teach your children to say "Yes, sir" or "No, sir" to men and "Yes, Ma'am " or "No, Ma'am" to women, particularly teachers.
North Americans are generally punctual and expect others to be punctual. This is especially important in the workplace. Many offices are not punctual, however. Expect long waits at doctors' offices and at the Immigration Service!
In the United States, it is considered polite to telephone before going to visit someone. Financial matters are private. It is considered bad manners to ask someone how much something he/she owns cost, how much money he/she has, or how much he/she earns.
Most North Americans bathe and shave daily, brush their teeth twice a day, shampoo their hair often, and put on clean clothes almost every day. They appreciate no body odor, clean hair, a close shave, and clean teeth, and they use many personal hygiene products such as deodorant, mouthwash, shampoo, detergent, and handkerchiefs or tissues for blowing the nose.
Be careful about the words you use. Some Americans may teach you bad words. You can usually recognize short, angry words as bad words. People in the U.S. entertainment business often use words that most decent people do not use. Warn your children not to use them.
If you have a credit card, pay off the balance each month. It is best NOT to have a credit card!! Read more...
http://www.bankrate.com/aol/calc/creditcardpay.asp?balance=5000&arate=13&Submit=Next
- You may have normal feelings of being helpless or frustrated when you do not speak the language or understand the culture.
- You may feel frustrated with daily tasks such as making friends, adjusting to your job, shopping, being understood, or finding transportation.
- You may have trouble sleeping, or you may feel tired during the day. You may not want to eat, or you may have an overwhelming feeling of sadness.
- These feelings are normal and usually last only a short time. Try listening to music you like, visiting friends, or joining groups. Try to make at least one American friend. If the feelings continue or worsen, talk with someone you trust or make an appointment at Lifeskills. Professional counselors at Lifeskills can help you make the adjustment to your new life.
Old and new residents of the United States share many values: - Independence
- Belief in the equality of all people
- Belief in the freedom to say what they believe
- Belief in the freedom to improve their lives
- Love of their families
- Interest in new ideas
- Good manners
- Honesty
- Dependability
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